Obituaries Archive

Sr. Phyllis Manternach

Sister Phyllis (Anthony Mary) Manternach, OSF, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at 6:40 p.m. April 6, 2026, at MercyOne Hospital, Dubuque.

Visitation will be at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center from 10:00-11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans

She was born on July 5, 1938 in Monticello, IA to Norbert Sr. and Katherine (Muller) Manternach.

Phyllis entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1956, and made final profession of vows August 12, 1962. Sister received her Masters degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD. She ministered in Iowa at Ossian, St. Edward, Waterloo, Pocahontas, Jesup, Templeton, and at Mount St. Franics, Dubuque. She also served in Melrose Park, Illinois and Crescent City, California.

Sister is survived by her brothers, Daniel (Joan) Manternach, Jerome “Jerry” (Carolyn) Manternach, sisters-in-law, Donna Manternach and Elaine Manternach, nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents and stepmother, Martha Manternach; sisters Christina (Donald) Bertling and infant sister, Rita Manternach; brothers, David Manternach and Norbert Manternach Jr.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks the MSFC staff for their care and concern.

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

Behr Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Linda M. Arnold

Linda Marie Arnold, 74, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon, April 2, 2026, at home.

Linda Marie Arnold was born on October 23, 1951, in Jackson County, Iowa, to Ira Edward and Carolyn (Clark) Chase. She grew up in the Baldwin area, attended the Baldwin schools, and later earned her GED.

Linda married Fay Arnold, and together they were blessed with two children, Jason and Brian. Although that marriage later ended, she continued forward with grace and resilience, always placing her family at the center of her life. She later found love again with Harry Axton, and together they welcomed their son, Robert. With Harry’s daughters, Helen and Edna, Linda helped create a loving and blended family that remained important to her throughout her life. Harry preceded her in death on November 8, 1987. She later shared her life with Lloyd “Red” Evans until his passing on February 14, 2019.

Linda worked a variety of jobs over the years.  She spent time working for Hanes Company in California, Wabash Transformers in Tipton, Iowa, Monticello Produce, and most notably as a sewer for Pacific Coast Feather Company in Maquoketa. She took pride in her work and in the many friendships she formed along the way.

She was a member of the Baldwin Women’s Club. In her free time, Linda loved fishing, going to the casino, and spending time with her family. Her grandchildren brought her especially great joy, and she treasured every moment she shared with them. She also had a very special bond with her best friend and niece, Jeannie, whose companionship meant so much to her.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Brian Arnold of Baldwin, IA, and Robert (fiancé Evie) Arnold of Grand Mound, IA; step-daughters, Helen and Edna; brother Everett “Skip” (Kathryn) Chase of Oxford Junction, IA; 7 grandchildren, Chelsi, Brice, Summer, Alanna, Josie, Draton Grandick, and Amber; 3 step-grandchildren, Bobbie, Brianna, and Jake; 6 great-grandchildren; 3 step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews including Jeannie Swift, Eva Jones, Danny Chase, Ronnie Chase, John Chase, Christina Chase, Marcy Olson, Ashley Joe Chase, and Mershia Chase.  She was preceded in death by her parents, son Jason Arnold, sister Janice Axton, brothers Rocky, Gene and Franklin Chase, and her significant others, Harry Axton and Lloyd “Red” Evans.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating her life will be held from 9:30 to 11 A.M., Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A public graveside and burial will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Linda Marie Arnold memorial fund has been established.

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

Alice M. Phillips

Alice M. Phillips, 83 of Dubuque, with deep sorrow but steadfast hope in Christ’s promise, has entered into the presence of the Lord on  April 5, 2026.  Visitation will be from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2145 John F. Kennedy Road followed by a funeral service Thursday at 11 a.m.

Alice was born May 20, 1942, daughter of Joyce “Joe” and Pearl (Almquist) Hurst.

Alice graduated from West Division High School in Milwaukee, WI.

On March 18, 1961 she married Robert “Bob” Phillips, Sr. at Cross Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. He preceded her in death on April 17, 2014.

Alice was a long time member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church where she taught Catechism and Sunday School for many years. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by four children, the Rev. Michael (Amy) Phillips, of Lima, Ohio, and their children, Noah and Josiah; Susan (Bob) Rehfeldt, of Dubuque, and their children, Ryan Rehfeldt, Emily (Mike) Canfield, and Taylor Rehfeldt; Mark Phillips of Dubuque; and Bob Phillips, Jr. and his children, Chad (Marissa) and Dyllon (Morgan); Six great grand children with two on the way.

She is also survived by a brother, Bob (Micki) Hurst.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Manley, Richard, Donald and sisters Joyce and Shirley.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

The family would like to thank Hospice for their care and support.

Bernice M. Martensen

Bernice M. Martensen, 87, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, April 10, at Church of the Resurrection, where Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dave Ambrosy officiating. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Bernice was born November 25, 1938, in Cascade, IA, the daughter of Henry and Regina (Kurt) Pfab. She married Vincent “Benny” Martensen on October 4, 1958 at St. Patrick’s in North Garryowen. He preceded her in death on June 14, 2023.

Bernice was a homemaker, and also worked at Eisenhower School. She was a legacy member of Church of the Resurrection.

Bernice is survived by six children, Van (Kathy) Martensen of North Liberty, Myron (Marlys) Martensen of Warsaw, MO, Jill (Vance) Brammer of Gravois Mills, MO, Todd (Stephanie) Martensen of Rolla, MO, Gina (Joe) Callahan of Dubuque, and Keri (Doug Pipho) Martensen of Cedar Falls. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; one sister, Caroline (Don) Koppes; four sisters-in-law, Ann Pfab, Sr. Rose Marie Martensen, RSM, Jane Cigrand and Penny Pfab; and a brother-in-law, Morgan (Ruth) Martensen.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her seven brothers, Ernest, Rev. Cletus (SJ), Irvin, Rev Martin, Edmund, Clarence and Henry Pfab; her sisters, Lucy (Daniel) Stokesberry, Julie (John) Little, and Charlotte Pfab;  and four sisters-in-law, Madonna Beck, Sr. Mary Martensen, RSM, Elizabeth Mausser and Catherine Pfab.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center or the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staffs at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, Oak Park Place, Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque and the members, staff and volunteers at Resurrection Parish for all of the special care they provided for mom.

Madonna Mueller

Madonna Mueller passed away on Monday April 6th 2026 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa. Funeral Mass will be held at 12:30 pm, Friday, April 10, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Family will greet friends 10:00 am – 12:00 pm prior to Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Madonna was born on March 23rd, 1927 to Nick and Mary (Schmidt) Tebbe, giving her 99 years to do all of the things she loved to do. She married Edward Mueller on Nov. 23rd 1948 and the 2 were inseparable for 73+ years. From this union came four sons, twins, Ronald (Karen) Mueller, Donald (Kay) Mueller, middle son Charles (Carolyn) Mueller and the youngest Patrick (Jane) Mueller.

Growing up on the farm West of Springbrook with her 7 siblings, Madonna was taught the art of hard work and she loved it! Everything from gardening, cooking & baking, canning, quilting and sewing to lawn work were some of her favorite things to do. She has 10 Grandchildren & 18 Great-Grandchildren that she loved dearly and if any of them were sick and unable to attend school, while parents were working, she wanted to care for them. Caring for and helping family members or friends who were ill was something she truly enjoyed, we often said that a career in medical care had been missed.

She was preceded in death by her Parents, her husband Edward, all of her siblings and in-laws, Vincent (Laura) Tebbe, Bendina (Gordon) Petesch, Dula (Lloyd) Hammond, Erma (Alphonse) Sturm, Velma (Richard) Lampe, Rita (Raymond) Kilburg, and Lloyd Tebbe.

Madonna spent the last 16 months at Sunrise Villa and Mill Valley in Bellevue. What a great transition this turned out to be. The entire staff were just wonderful and the four boys would like to give a special Thank You to Kayla Blaser, Mary Jo Konrardy and Alison Meier as well as nephew and nieces, Terry Mueller, Jane Borman, Ruth Steines, Lola McAreavy, Judy Keuter and Mary Maher and Great-niece Tricia (Steines) Jones you were all truly special to Mom.

A memorial fund has been established in Madonna’s memory.

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

Dennis Manders

Dennis “Pup” Manders, 78, of Dubuque, passed away April 4, 2026.

Visitation will be from 11:00a.m.-12:45p.m., Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 1:00p.m. with Rev. Ray Burkle officiating. Inurnment will take place in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Dennis was born on June 30, 1947, to Marvin and Donna (Smith) Manders in Dubuque, IA.

He attended Dubuque Senior High School, graduating in 1965.

Dennis was united in marriage to Connie (Copeland) Manders on December 11, 1971, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

He worked for UPS for many years.

Dennis proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

He was a longtime Cleveland Browns fan and loved cheering on the New York Yankees. He also enjoyed participating in his fantasy football league. In his younger years, Dennis completed Ragbrai.

Dennis was a member of Sacred Heart Church, and a former Moose Lodge member.

He is survived by his wife, Connie; children, Mark (Emily Polich) Manders of Hazel Green, WI, Cory (Ann Marie) Manders of Denver, CO, and Candi Lewis of Danville, IA; and two grandchildren, Carter and Milo Manders. He is also survived by in-laws, Jaci Manders, Linda (Ralph) Stewart, Mike (Patty) Copeland, Peggy (Paul) Kaune, Dennis Copeland, Kenneth (Barb) Copeland, Mary (Ron) Martin, and Vicki Copeland.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ronald Manders; and in-laws, Cathy Copeland, Pat Copeland, and John Copeland.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to dear friends, Dave Hammel, Dan Mellon, and Tim Welu for their weekly visits with Dennis. Your kindness and friendship will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be given to the Veterans Freedom Center of Dubuque, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

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

Delores M. Oliver

Delores M. Oliver, 98, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on April 5, 2026, at Grand Meadows with her loving family by her side.

Family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush St, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Jeffrey Dole officiating. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Delores was born on March 5, 1928, in Dubuque to Hugh and Agnes (Sheehan) Strong. She grew up in the “flats” of Dubuque and went to St. Mary’s Grade School and Senior High School. She then moved to Apple St. in 1941. During WWII she worked at The Battery Factory. Delores has been a member of St. Columbkille Church since 1941. She married Donald W. Oliver on August 2, 1947, they had six wonderful children together.

She loved playing Bingo, going to the Casino and playing cards – especially Euchre, which she was in charge of at the local John Deere union hall.

Delores is survived by her children, Connie (Paul) Tauke, Sharon (Mark) Woolhether, Dan (Penny) Oliver, Martin (David Bailey) Oliver; daughters-in-law, Linda (Kohl) Oliver and Emily (Rettenberger) Oliver; seven grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Oliver; her parents, Hugh and Agnes Strong; her sons, Don Jr. and Brian Oliver.

The family would like to thank everyone at Grand Meadows for making her last few months so enjoyable. Also, to the wonderful nurses and doctors at Finley ER, Hospital and to Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and care.

A special thank you to MarySue and family, Jeanelle and Jerry, Pauline, her hairdresser, for over 40 years for their friendship and kindness.

Frederick L. Chenery III

Frederick L. Chenery III, 98, of Dubuque, IA, passed away March 27, 2026, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1410 Main St. Dubuque, IA.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Ronald L. Hefel

Ronald Lee Hefel, 66, of Sherrill, Iowa, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 8 – 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Buena Vista, Iowa. Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30 a.m. with inurnment to follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Paul Kwaku Ameyaw will officiate with Deacon Jim Pfaffly assisting.

Ron was born January 12, 1960, son of Gerald and Marjorie (Moser) Hefel. After graduating high school, Ron went on to work for several companies. He worked for Horstfield Construction, Nelson Logging, and would retire from the Canadian Pacific Railroad.

He loved NASCAR, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and all sports. He was mechanically inclined and knowledgeable on fixing cars and motorcycles. Several people came to Ron for his mechanical advice. He especially enjoyed the fishing trips with his dad. In his free time, he enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and The Price Is Right.

Survivors include his daughter, Elizabeth (Brent) Bouren of Saint Louis, MO; grandchildren: Amber (Kerrigan) Bouren-Chapman and Shelby Bouren; mother, Marge Hefel of Sherrill; siblings: Penny Hefel of Fairplay, WI, Dede (Rich) Dalsing of Potosi, WI, Kathy (Glen) Burkle of Waverly, Kenneth Hefel of Sherrill; nieces and nephews: Jason (Debbie) Hefel, Anthony (Erin) Beitzel, Maggie (Jordan) Williams, Gunther Williams, Blake (Annette) Burkle, Megan (Conner) Taylor, Clayton (Maria) Burkle, Garrett (Marin) Burkle; great-nieces and nephews: Jason Hefel Jr, Parker, Preston, and Lily Hefel, Gerald, Hudson and Bennett Beitzel, Kelby and Kori Burkle, and Walter Burkle.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Hefel; brother, Mike “Tree” Hefel; and grandson, Gage Bouren.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Ron’s name. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home in care of Hefel family to be forwarded.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Billie L. Bohy

Billie Lou (Parks) Bohy, 88, of St. Donatus, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

Funeral services will be 10:30 am, Saturday, April 11, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, April 10, 2026 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Additional visitation will be 9:30 am – 10:15 am prior to services at the church on Saturday. Burial will be in First Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Bellevue.

Billie Lou was born July 5, 1937, in St. Anthony, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Elsie (Hannusch) Parks. She graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1955. Billie married John “Art” Bohy on June 23, 1957, at the EUB Church in Marshalltown, Iowa. He preceded her in death on December 17, 2019.

Billie owned and operated the “Coffee Cup” ceramic shop at the family farm for many years. She was active in P.E.O., the American Legion Auxiliary, and served as a 4-H leader. A devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, Billie participated in youth fellowship, served as a Deacon, and worked the lunch stand at the County Fair for many years.

She enjoyed embroidery, cooking, and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include her children: Denise (Jeff) Elmore of Newburgh, IN; Deborah (Paul) Dent of Bellevue; and James (Christiane) Bohy of Chemnitz, Germany; five grandchildren: Erica (James) Barnett, Jared (Shannon) Dent, Ryan Elmore, Megan Elmore, and Brena Nelson; eight great-grandchildren: Connor, Grady, Benny, Judah, Riley, Lincoln, Elliot, and T.J.; a brother, Ronald Parks; a sister, Sue (Tom) Kilker; a sister-in-law, Ruth Bohy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Billie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister-in-law, Pat Parks; brothers-in-law, Donald (Shirley) Bohy, and Dean Bohy.

A memorial fund has been established in Billie’s memory.

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

David J. Meyer

David “Dave” J. Meyer, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on April 1, 2026, at University of Wisconsin Hospital.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, Iowa.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. An additional visitation will be held prior to the funeral service at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dave was born on August 12, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Donald J. and Eileen (Klosa) Meyer. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Loras College in Dubuque and his Master of Science from Drake University. On May 17, 1980, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jacqueline “Jackie” Rose Morarend, in Dubuque.

David dedicated his life to education, serving as a teacher with the Decorah Community School District, a principal at both MFL MarMac and Aplington-Parkersburg, and later as an associate principal with Cedar Falls Community Schools. In retirement, he continued to serve others, assisting with transportation at Western Home Communities in Cedar Falls and Stonehill Communities in Dubuque, and through his work in the seafood department at Hy-Vee in Dubuque.

A lifelong educator, coach, and administrator, David found his greatest joy in time spent with his family, especially his wife, Jackie, his beloved children, and his cherished grandchildren, whom he adored.

Dave is survived by his wife, Jackie; their children, Leah Meyer of The Woodlands, TX, Brian (Michelle) Meyer of Cedar Rapids, IA, Kyle (Chelsey Tinderholt) Meyer of Eldridge, IA, and Patrick (Maria Ugarte) Meyer of San Diego, CA; grandchildren, Jack, Grace, Isabella, Edison, Lena, and Sammy; his siblings, Daniel Meyer, Jolene (Roger) Schoenberger, Herman (Joni) Meyer, all of Dubuque, Donald (Valarie) Meyer, Peter (Doreen) Meyer, both of Cedar Rapids, and Julie Meyer of Dubuque. In addition, Dave was blessed with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Eileen; and infant siblings, Timothy, Mary, Martha, Thomas, and Jody.

The family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and staff at MercyOne Cancer Center in Dubuque, and Dr. Nadiminti and wonderful nurses and staff at UW Madison Hospitals and Clinics for their care and support during David’s battle with cancer.

In lieu of flowers, a David J. Meyer Memorial Fund will be established for scholarships to support the education of special education teachers and nurses with a passion for cancer care.

Vicky L. Nurre

Vicky L. Nurre, 61, of Arlington, VA and formerly of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026, at West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be held 3 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral services.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa with burial at the church cemetery. Rev. Georges Midiangu will officiate.

Vicky was born on March 21, 1965, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Kenneth and Dorothy “Dottie” (Vaske) Nurre.

She grew up the oldest of five children in Dyersville, Iowa. She graduated from Beckman High School in Dyersville in the class of 1983. She graduated from the University of Iowa School of Journalism. Vicky moved to Chicago, IL to pursue a career in philanthropic and corporate organizations focusing on social impact. Her career spanned several diverse positions and industries. In 2023, Vicky moved to Arlington, Virginia for a role as senior director of philanthropy at the National Council on Aging.

She met several friends along the way and cherished her relationships with anyone she met. She had time for everyone and wanted to impact many lives on earth. She lived her life in a deep and unwavering faith, finding strength and purpose in her devotion to God. Her compassionate spirit for others was evident in every act of kindness, as she quietly lifted those around her with generosity and care.

Survivors include her mother, Dottie; siblings: Tom (Vena) Nurre of Fairfax, Susie Sondag of West Palm Beach, FL, Gregg Nurre of Rockford, IL; nieces and nephews: Grahm Smolinski, Quinn Smolinski, Olivia (Adam) Topping, Isabelle Nurre.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth in 2025 and a brother, Timothy John Nurre.

The family would like to thank Dr. John Marshall and the Otto J. Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, and all the dear friends that supported Vicky and helped her during this difficult time.

Gifts made via mail can be sent to the following address: National Council on Aging, Attn: Development, PO Box 791905 Baltimore, MD 21279-1905. In the comment section a notation should be included that the gift is being made in memory of Vicky Nurre. Gifts can also be made online at ncoa.org/Donate. There is a box that can be checked on the form that the gift is a memorial gift.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Patricia A. Reich

Patricia A. “Pat” Reich, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on April 2, 2026, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Pat’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pat’s family.

Pat was born on January 27, 1947, in Chicago, IL, the only daughter to Edward C. and Anna (Filipek) Reich.  She was born with a strong will, an independent streak and for those who knew her well, the uncanny ability to call it like she sees it when those moments seemed appropriate.  Pat spent the first 45 years of her life in the Chicago area raising her family and making her way in the world.  In 1989, she ventured over to Dubuque and fell in love with the area and the people here and decided to make this her permanent home in 1990.  Pat invested her time and talents at Wal-Mart and Theisen’s primarily and many will remember her friendly face assisting them as their shopping was done.  Pat possessed a strong work ethic as well and always took great pride in giving her best and making sure that the responsibilities of the day given to her charge were done, and done “correctly”.

In her free-time, Pat never missed an opportunity to spend a little time on a nice day tending to her flower gardens.  A little outdoor therapy was always considered to be time well spent.  She was also a naturally gifted dog whisper who consistently took every canine companion trusted to her care and turned them into the epitome of a good boy or girl.  They responded to her instinctually and before you knew it, they were looking for cuddles and rubs.  Pat lived a good life and she did it on her terms right up until the very end.  She loved her family and friends unconditionally but also valued her independence where those priorities existed.  We will miss Pat’s presence in our lives moving forward and are eternally grateful for the 79 years the Lord was gracious enough to share her spirit with us.  Thank you, Pat, for reminding us that we only get to live this life once and it’s best to do it the right way whenever possible.  May the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Pat include,

her two children,
William E. “Bill” Wasowicz, Oklahoma City, OK,
and Janice M. “Jan” (Dan “Smooth”) Dziuban, Frankfort, IL;

her four adored grandchildren,
Kylie Volz, Hobart, IN,
Luke Wasowicz, Nashville, TN,
Allison Wasowicz, Highland, IN,
and Brett Dziuban, Frankfort, IL;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents.

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

Pat’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Megan, Karen, Angela, Jill and Michelle for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Dorothea M. Giese

Dorothea M. Giese, 98, of Dubuque, passed away April 3, 2026.

Visitation will be from 10:30a.m.-12:45p.m., Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 1:00p.m. with Deacon Dave Roth officiating. Private family burial will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Dorothea was born on July 15, 1927, to Albert and Mabel (Rooney) Bauer in Dubuque, IA.

She graduated from St. Joseph Academy.

She was united in marriage to William Giese on August 19, 1950, at the Church of the Nativity. He preceded her in death on February 20th, 2000.

Dorothea was a longtime parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

She loved to read and enjoyed traveling to many countries and islands.

Dorothea is survived by her children, Tom (Paula) Giese of Dubuque, and Connie (Kim) Clay of Davenport, IA; grandchildren, Matthew Giese of Dubuque, Jon (Jordan) Wolf of Urbandale, IA, Jenny (Ryan) Peters of Grimes, IA, and Stephanie (Kevin) Meyers of Dubuque. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a sister, Phyllis Wagner.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center.

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

Melissa K. Biedermann Scarbrough

Melissa Kathleen Biedermann Scarbrough was born on March 2, 1971, to Leon and Maxine (Young) Biedermann. She passed away on March 27, 2026, at Sunnycrest Manor. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

She loved the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros.

Those left to cherish her memory are 3 brothers, Lyle (Debbie) Biedermann, Bruce Biedermann and Rick (Kim) Biedermann; 2 sisters, Wendy Anderson and Jennifer Biedermann, all of Dubuque; her brother-in-law, Philip Smith of Colorado; several nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, great-great nieces and a great-great nephews with another due in June; and her best friends, Sharon Brimmer, Kristi and Michelle Murphy, who were by her side when she took her last breath.

Melissa was preceded in death by her father, Leon Biedermann; her mother, Maxine Biedermann; her sister, Sandra Smith; and her great nephew, Blake Winfrey.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Hermann and his staff, Dr. Matthew Kirkendall and his staff for the care they have provided for Melissa. Also much love and appreciation to the Staff and Residents at Sunnycrest Manor for their friendship, love and care.