Obituaries Archive

Sue M. Walz

Susan Mae Walz of Dubuque passed away July 12th, 2025, at home surrounded by her family. She was 78 years old. Her passing ended a two-year battle with cancer, which she confronted with strength and grace, never losing her sense of humor and always continuing to find happiness in her relationships with friends and family.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd will host her visitation on Friday, July 18th, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a prayer service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19th at Cathedral of Saint Raphael with Very Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Susan Mueller was born in Dubuque, Iowa on April 24th, 1947, to Donald and Lucile (Shafer) Mueller. She spent her earliest years growing up along with her two brothers, Mark “String” and Donald Jr. “Shorty” on Stoltz Street not far from Hilldale Dairy, owned and operated by her father. The family moved to Plymouth Court in the early 1950s, and she attended Saint Columbkille Elementary.

Sue graduated from Wahlert in 1965 and studied at Iowa State University for two years, switching her major frequently and learning very little (her words). Between her first and second year at ISU, she and three classmates drove to Colorado to work on a dude ranch. Longing for broader horizons, she decided to continue west to California to spend the rest of the summer with her brother Donald on the coast near Los Angeles. She may have never left the sand and surf had Lucile not commanded her to get in her car and return home, which she begrudgingly did, making the trip alone with all her belongings in the back seat.

Sue met Ed during her second year at Iowa State University, and they were married in Ames in 1968. The newlyweds lived in Des Moines where their first two daughters were born – Charissa (Cara) in 1969 and Marianne (Mimi) in 1970 – before moving to Dubuque where her son Edward Jr. was born in 1973. Their house was a few miles west of Dubuque, in a lot next to her parents. During that time, she worked the morning shift as a waitress at Timmerman’s Motor Lodge, sometimes working a second shift as a waitress in Dyersville when needed to make ends meet.

She loved the river. The family spent most of one summer on a Mississippi beach living on a houseboat. During that summer a friend shuttled her to Midtown Marina in a small boat where her car was parked to get to work in time for the morning shift as a waitress. At the end of the summer, it took nearly everyone on the beach to dislodge the boat. After one harrowing experience in a storm on Mud Lake, the family sold the houseboat in favor of a more reliable runabout. All the children, and many neighborhood kids, learned to ski. Nearly every year, laden with food and gear, the boat made trips upriver to meet her brother Mark near Cassville and camp with the families.

Sue enrolled in NICC nursing school in 1976 and graduated as an RN two years later. The same year she started working at Mercy Hospital where she worked for over thirty years in neurology, psychology, pool nursing and finally as house supervisor. In 1981, her daughter Kristen was born at the same hospital.

She loved going to work every day. She did not know it at the time of starting nursing school, but it became clear early in her career that nursing was her vocation. She cherished collaborating with the staff and spending time with patients. As a supervisor, she always worked to make sure that patients were given the best care and that nurses were treated fairly.

Sue wanted to serve the less fortunate and those most in need. She donated to several charities, including Doctors Without Borders. Sue travelled to Jamaica seven times as part of a medical mission. Her interactions with the local residents seeking care warmed her heart, especially serving the children and elderly.

With mixed feelings about leaving the hospital and the relationships she had fostered, she retired in 2010 in order to spend more time at home and with her family, which at that time included eight grandchildren. Even after retiring, she never stopped calling herself a nurse.

Much of her service was motivated by her spirituality and being a Christian. As a member of St. Joseph the Worker parish, she and Ed attended CEW weekends and volunteered at parish events. After moving to the south of Dubuque County, they joined St. Raphael’s parish, and she frequently attended morning mass at the Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey.

Sue and Ed purchased and renovated a cottage off Massey Station Road overlooking the river that her parents had owned when she was a child. They moved there in 2001, where they enjoyed their retirement together. She liked being close to the water and tending to her gardens. She canned vegetables. She used her mother’s recipe to make apple pie with apples from the tree in the yard. Mostly she loved her garden and decorating her home, especially with flowers that she cultivated. She jokingly called her style “Victorian wildlife” and was adept at turning a thrift shop purchase into a cool piece of furniture.

She enjoyed many games. Whether it was organizing family euchre tournaments, playing “golf” with her long-standing card club (The OCD’s), a game of scrabble, canasta, Blockus or Partners (the most recent family obsession), she was never one to turn down a game nor let you off the hook for not playing, even in the final stages of her illness.

Sue loved to entertain, and the house was a revolving door for friends and family. She made space for visitors anywhere and everywhere – in one of the guest bedrooms, on a couch, an air-mattress on the floor or an RV parked on the property. She remembered people’s preferred foods and made a point to make them. She embraced abundance -of food, of joy, of memories. And she loved her family and friends with abundance.

She enjoyed traveling with her family and friends. Her adventurous spirit took her to Argentina to see glaciers in Patagonia and to Australia to watch her niece compete in the Olympics. She travelled down the Mississippi and up the Ohio, then along the Tennessee River with her brother Mark. She journeyed down the Shannon River in a houseboat in Ireland, and toured in Uganda, where she took a boat ride to the source of the Nile on Lake Victoria. She travelled throughout Uganda with two large suitcases full of toys, colorful socks, and candy to give to children. She earned the nickname “Santa Sue” as she distributed treats during a three-week trip across the country.

Susan had boundless energy, which earned her the other nickname “the energizer bunny”. Power washing anything and pulling all nighters were a couple of her guilty pleasures. She was not adverse to spending the night at a nearby casino or at home crafting something or deep cleaning some corner of the house. Her night-owl activities are evidenced in the many pieces of wicker furniture she meticulously spray painted.

She was a lifelong learner and found her wisdom in nature, friends, books, cable news or whatever resonated with her soul. Guided by her values of tolerance and kindness, she never stopped striving to evolve as a human being.

She is survived by her husband Edward Walz and her four children Cara (Tony Jhocson) Walz, Mimi (Dave) Holesinger, Edward Walz and Kristen (Erik Rook) Walz, along with eight grandchildren Edward (Hilary Lien-Beye) Curtiss, Jackson Curtiss, Zane Jhocson, Una Jhocson, David Holesinger, Emma (James Paulson) Holesinger, George Holesinger and Mekdes Holesinger and one great grandchild Turner Curtiss Lien-Beye.

She is also survived by one brother Mark (Donna Lund) Mueller and sister-in-law Cathy Mueller.

She is preceded in death by her parents Donald and Lucile Mueller, her brother Donald “Shorty” Mueller and nephew Matthew Mueller.

Sue’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the University of Iowa Cancer Center, Dr. Brian Sullivan & Hospice of Dubuque, and Sister Sharon Rezmer for their care, support and kindness.

Daniel M. Morrison

Daniel Matthew Morrison, 67, of Goose Lake and formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away from a brain aneurysm on July 3, 2025. 

The highlight of Dan’s life was spending time with family. He adored his daughter and granddaughter and was so proud of both. Dan was meticulous and diligent in every task he undertook. He was loyal and always willing to help anyone in need. All will miss his easy laugh and quirky ways. 

Dan was loved and survived by his family (and spouses): partner, Roger Miller, daughter Monica Moser (Sam), and precious granddaughter Aria Moser; and 13 siblings: Timothy, Anne, Martha (Fernando), Mark, James (Kathy), Thomas (Jennifer), Joseph (Crystal), Mary, Rebecca, Margaret (Zeke), Cecilia, Michael (Wendi), & Steven (Raymond). 

Dan has joined his parents, Dr. David and Joan Morrison, his nephew, Christopher Hill, and brother-in-law, Bob Gagnon, in heaven. 

Dan will be laid to rest by his family in a private burial service on July 25 at 10:00 am in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. 

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

Gertrude F. Meyer

Gertrude Florence Meyer, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on July 4, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place at the Tri-State Cremation Center and a private burial will be held at a later date, at Our Lady of Lake Huron Cemetery in Harbor Beach, Michigan.

Gertrude was born on May 17, 1939, in Harbor Beach, Michigan, the daughter of the late Arnold & Gertrude (Koss) Meyer.  She graduated from Our Lady of Lake Huron High School and worked at Mom’s Dairy Bar, where she met her future husband.  She was married on February 15, 1958, at St. Joseph’s Parish in LaSalle, Illinois, and eventually relocated to Dubuque, Iowa.  She enjoyed watching Nascar races with her kids and was a true Kansas City Chiefs fan.  She later worked at Sandies Restaurant, then Hardees, and finally as the manager of the Quick Stop Gas & Party store, where she retired from.  She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and watching sports, and in her younger days going to dances.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Linda) Ristau, Sharon (Larry) Loso, Randy (Suzanne) Ristau, and William (Sally) Ristau.  Her grandchildren, April, Carl, Christie, Rebecca, and Daniel Ristau, Ashley Loso, Randy Ristau Jr., Nathan Ristau-Hastings, and Halie (Jacob) Biver, Amy, Kelly, Joseph, Brandon, and Amber Ristau. Her step-grandchildren, Jessie Carrier, and Christopher Powers.  And many great-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren survive her including Eugene Ristau, Bradley and Hyle Ristau, Jaxten and Murphy.  Her siblings, Edward Meyer, Patricia Gross, and Ken (Donna) Meyer. And her sister-in-law, Celia Meyer.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her siblings: Arnold (Arlene) Meyer, Peter Meyer, Mary Meyer, Leo Meyer.  Her brother-in-law, Ronald Gross.  She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Sgt. Michael Ristau, who died serving his country in Operation Enduring Freedom.

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

Margaret F. Sedgwick

Margaret F. Sedgwick, age 78, of East Dubuque, IL, completed her earthly journey on July 11, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family. To honor Margaret’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 10th, from 1pm – 5pm at Culbie’s Event Center, 90 Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL.  Burial will be in the Van Buren Cemetery in Potosi, WI. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Margaret’s family.

Margaret was born on May 18, 1947, in Lancaster, WI, a daughter to James H. and Muriel P. (Clinger) Dailey. She was an undeniably sweet and gentle soul who loved her family, enjoyed life to its fullest, and took advantage of every opportunity to make each day count. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Gary C. Sedgwick, on March 25, 1967. They were blessed with many wonderful years together and a son of their own to love and nurture. Margaret faithfully invested over 34 years of her time and talents with the Honeywell Company before eventually moving into retirement. Margaret and Gary were truly blessed to be able to spend over 20 years wintering in Arizona, where they made countless friends and even greater memories along the way.

When Margaret wasn’t enjoying a little side-by-side ride with Gary, you could often find her sitting contentedly working on her most recent painting. To this day, many of her gifted creations and visions adorn the walls of their home, as well as those of family and friends. Margaret was also known to enjoy the challenge of a good puzzle or card game when time allowed, and if a few friends were sitting at the table with her, life was good. But, for those who knew Margaret best, spending time with her family, especially if a camping outing was on the agenda, was truly her happy place. Margaret strived continually to share her love and joy with those around her, and the mere thought of her legacy missing from our lives today brings a heaviness upon our hearts that we can only hope time will heal. Thank you, Margaret, for loving deeply and dearly, for taking each day in stride, and for always shining so brightly everywhere you went. May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Margaret include

her loving husband of 58 years,
Gary C. Sedgwick of East Dubuque, IL;

her son,
Kelly C (Shelly) Sedgwick of Sandwich, IL;

her adored grandchildren,
Kelsey (Justin) Rader, Madalynn (Dan) Sedgwick, and Ryan Sedgwick;

her siblings,
Vallerie Dailey of St. Paul, MN,
Jay (Rhonda) Dailey of Albany, WI,
Trudy (Hank) Anderson of Peshtigo, WI,
and Brian (Donna) Dailey of Platteville, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Mary (Dave) Richardson and Rick (Marsha) Dailey; and her nephew, Jason Dailey.

Margaret’s family would like to thank Dr. Engelman, his nurses and staff, along with the nurses Elizabeth, Kristina, Kristin, Jill, Jennifer, Hailey and the rest of the staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

John A. Greibe

John A. Greibe, 88, of Galena, IL, passed away on July 11, 2025, at Midwest Medical Senior Care Center in Galena after a brief illness. A private family service will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting his family. He was born on September 10, 1936, in Galena, to Phillip “Bud” and Hilda (Martin) Greibe.

John honorably served in the United States Marine Corps from 1953 to 1956 as a Gunnery Sergeant during the Korean War. He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 33 years until he retired in 1993. John loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. His greatest joy was spending years at his camp on the Mississippi with his kids and grandkids. He married Mary Ann Buman in September 1959 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena. Early in life, they raised their sister-in-law, Linda Buman, from age three after her parents’ passing.

Surviving are his two children, David (Rae Ann) Greibe and Cynthia (Randy) Beadle; four grandchildren, Justin (Taylor) Greibe, Emily Greibe, Kelsey (Greg) Hart, and Cassie (Logan Flack) Beadle; four great-grandchildren, Presley and Finley Hart, Lainey and Julian Greibe; his sister-in-law, Susan Harris, Linda (Scott) Montgomery; brother-in-law Robert Buman; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Mary Ann; infant son William Scott; brother Phillip; sisters Beatrice O’Neill, Lucille Fleming, Susan Grossbier, Pauline Lake; and his baby brother William, as well as brothers-in-law Jim and Richard “Dick” Buman.

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

Amy E. Schroeder

Amy Elizabeth Schroeder, 61, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 14, beginning at 10 am with a funeral service to follow at 1 pm at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home.

With unwavering hope and strength, Amy chose to undergo intensive treatment for ovarian cancer. As a result, she gifted her family and friends five more beautiful, memory-filled years.

Amy was born September 23, 1963 in Dubuque, Iowa, the cherished daughter of the late Jan and Gail (Arduser) Seipp. From a young age, Amy showed remarkable compassion for others. A summer spent living at Bethany Home helping her grandmother transition would later inspire her lifelong calling to nursing.

After graduating from Hempstead high school, Amy attended Stewart’s School of Cosmetology in Davenport Iowa then worked for three years as a hairstylist. Realizing her true passion was in healthcare, she earned an AAS in Radiologic Technology then immediately entered the nursing program. She dedicated the next 31 years to caring for residents in various nursing facilities within the Dubuque area.
Amy had a gift for turning ordinary moments into celebrations. Her joyful spirit and endless creativity brought people together and made every gathering feel special. More than anything, she poured her heart into being a mom, deeply involved in her kids’ lives and always focused on their happiness, comfort, and wellbeing.

Those who knew Amy will remember her radiant smile, quiet humility, boundless positivity, and uncanny ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. She turned life’s challenges into opportunities for growth and connection, spreading joy wherever she went.

Amy will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her devoted husband and best friend of 34 years, Jeff, and the kiddos: Curtis (Rebecca), Anna, and Sara (Austin Johns). She is also survived by her sisters, Shelly Oehrle (Dan) and Melissa Seipp (Mike); her extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews; and a wide circle of beloved friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful and compassionate MercyOne oncology staff, Hospice of Dubuque, and the many friends and family members who supported Amy throughout her journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or the Avery Foundation.

Please share your fondest memories of Amy online at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home.

Shannon R. Williams–Mitchell

Shannon Renee Williams – Mitchell, 51, of Miles, Iowa, previously of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away July 8, 2025, as the result of an automobile accident.

Shannon was born July 3, 1974, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Steven and Connie (Koranda) Williams.  She graduated from Maquoketa High School with the Class of 1993.  She also received a degree from Hamilton Technical College.  Shannon married Michael Mitchell in Maquoketa.

Shannon proudly worked as an EMT in Dewitt, Iowa, for a time, and worked for John Deere Insurance, Dewitt Bank & Trust, and RCS Computer Appliances. Shannon loved being with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. She also enjoyed crocheting, diamond art, and was a “professional” golfer.

Those left to honor Shannon’s memory include her daughters, Erika (Jake) Williams – Manning of Maquoketa, and Katlyn (Nathan Ehlers) Williams of Lost Nation, Iowa; her husband Michael Mitchell of Lost Nation; her mother, Connie Bonney of Delmar; five grandchildren, Remington, Korra, London, Reagan, and Ashlynn; and her step son, Derek (Hannah Shelton) Mitchell of Bettendorf, Iowa.  She was preceded in death by her father Steven Williams, and a brother Dylan Williams.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A visitation celebrating Shannon’s life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, July 14, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites will follow the services.

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

Cathy A. McVay

Cathy A. McVay, age 65, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Cathy’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting her family.

Cathy was born on October 22, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Quentin and Ursula (Potter) Bottoms.

Cathy attended St. Mary’s Grade School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She was a devoted mom to her two children and homemaker.  Cathy met the love of her life, Joey Wayne Washburn, one night when she was out listening to his band play.  The two quickly became a couple and were together for 29 years until his passing in 2021.  In her free time, Cathy enjoyed watching TV, movies, listening to old time country music and was a huge Elvis fan.  She was well known for sending everyone a card for their birthday, anniversary and on the holidays.  Cathy loved her family and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Cathy’s memory include

her children,
Tonya (Jason) Waterman, Fennimore, WI
and Cory (Rebecca Geltz) McVay, Dubuque, IA;

her step-children,
Shannon Washburn, Dubuque, IA,
Staci Washburn, Dubuque, IA
and Dani (Christina) Kelley, of Georgia;

5 grandchildren, “her babies”,
Cassie (Trever Lynch) Waterman, Epworth, IA,
Amber (Fiancé Eric Schafer) Waterman, Lancaster, WI,
Katlyn (Daniel Schafer) Waterman, Fennimore, WI,
Tatum Waterman, Fennimore, WI
and William Ragnar Robert McVay, Dubuque, IA;

a great-granddaughter,
Abbigail;

and 4 nephews.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Thomas Bottoms; and the love of her life, Joey Wayne Washburn.

Cathy’s family would like to thank the Dubuque Police Department and 1st Responders and the staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital ER for their kindness and compassion.

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

Raymond E. Clark

Raymond E. “Rick” Clark, 81, of DeWitt, Iowa, passed away at his home on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

Raymond Eugene Clark was born on January 30, 1944, at home at Ozark, rural Jackson County Iowa, to Raymond and Azetta (Cooper) Clark. He graduated from Maquoketa Community High School in 1963.

He worked at Clinton Engines in his early work years and then began his professional journey at KatridgPak in Davenport, Iowa, dedicating over three decades as an inspector. His meticulous nature and commitment to excellence were evident in his work, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Beyond his professional life, Rick was deeply committed to serving his community. He proudly served as a reserve police officer in DeWitt for several years, a role that allowed him to make a positive impact on public safety and community trust. His passion for service did not end there, as Rick also devoted his time to the Boy Scouts of America. As a Boy Scout Leader and Master, he mentored and guided countless young scouts, instilling in them the values of leadership, responsibility, and the joy of outdoor adventures.

Rick’s personal interests reflected his disciplined and attentive nature. He took great pride in maintaining his yard, approaching it with meticulous care that he applied to all areas of his life. His lawn was a testament to his attention to detail, often becoming a subject of admiration for neighbors and passersby.

Those left to honor his memory include his son, Shawn Clark of Bettendorf, IA; brother, Kevin (Kim) Clark of Ozark, IA, and grandchildren Addison and Anibel Clark and Rishem and Rowan Bhogal.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at 12 P.M., Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to visitation from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. Burial will be at the Ozark Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Ozark Cemetery memorial fund has been established.

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

Nielia M. Ball

Nielia M. Ball, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on July 6, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. To honor Nielia’s life, burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery in Peosta, IA at 10:00 a.m. on July 21, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 31, 2025, at Eagle Point Park’s Shiras Pavilion from 10:00-1:00. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Nielia’s family.

Nielia was born on June 23, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, daughter to Elmer and Viola (Cavanaugh) Robey. She was a loving wife and mother who devoted her life to those who were entrusted to her care. She was united in marriage to Richard (Fritz) Bush on May 23, 1964, and they were blessed with 12 years together until Fritz was sadly called home in May 1976. She later married Lynn Ball on October 5, 1991. Nielia sold Avon products for many years and had a vast collection of bottles and other items. She loved crafting and would sell items at craft fairs. She was a very talented seamstress most of her life, having made many wedding dresses and other types for family and friends. She worked outside of the home with different businesses including Murph’s Southend Tap, Venture, Big Lots, Rite Hite, Wal-Mart and Eagles. She possessed a friendly spirit and made countless friends along the way with each position she held. We are going to miss our dear Nielia more than words could ever accurately depict, and we are forever grateful for the 81 years the Lord was gracious enough to share her with us. Thank you, Nielia, for always loving those around you with a humble heart, for leading the way down each path we walked upon, and for reminding us to keep life simple and our love for others deep. May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Nielia include her 5 children: Dean Bush (Barb Davis), Dubuque, IA, Dawn (Ken) Leppert, Maquoketa, IA, Doran (Shari) Bush, Peosta, IA, Daryl Bush, Dubuque, IA, and Deric Bush (Jennifer Siegert), Dubuque, IA; her 11 grandchildren: Adam Bush, Ashleigh (Jake) Miner, Rachael Bush (Geoff Hahn), Dominic Strong, Dalton Bush, Autumn Strong, Summer Bush, Bella Bush, Dallas Bush, Colton Bush, and Wyatt Bush; her 4 great-grandchildren: Aubrie and Aurora Miner, and Novalie and Cynthia Hahn; her siblings: Donald Robey, Carl Robey, Lou Ann Richardson, and Delbert Robey; along with many numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Nielia was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Richard Bush and Lynn Ball; her siblings: Alvin Robey, Clarence Robey, Elmer Robey, and LaVonne Mueller, and members of the Bush and Ball families: Dallas and Isabel (Hahn) Bush, Robert Bush, James Bush, William Bush, John Bush, Harold Ball, Marge Ball, life-long family friend Kenneth Bailey, and close life-long neighbors Ronald and Sharon Nickolas.

Nielia’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all their professional and compassionate care.

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

Jeanette M. Schwartz

Jeanette M. Schwartz, 95, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at her home, surrounded by family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jeanette will be at 10:00 am on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Fr. Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Jeanette was born on January 6, 1930 with her twin brother, James, to Leo (Chief) and Florence (Messing) Meyer. James died in October 1993.

Jeanette graduated from St. Columbkille High School in 1947. She worked at Interstate Finance Company and the Donut Hut. She married Frank J. Schwartz on November 26, 1953. Together they had nine boys. Frank preceded her in death on January 15, 1994.

Jeanette is survived by seven sons, Jeffrey (Renee) Schwartz, Thomas (Rennee) Schwartz, David (Ellen) Schwartz, Russell (Angel) Schwartz, Stanley Schwartz, Joseph (Jill) Schwartz, and Edward (Melissa) Schwartz; 12 grandchildren, Julie (Cory) Oeth, Jodi Grieshop, Jill (Matt) Boge, Derek (Courtney) Schwartz, Michael (Sara) Schwartz, Codi (Matt) Smidt, Lee (Emily) Schwartz, Andrew (Kaci) Schwartz, Jennifer (Pete) Theisen, Ben (Shanda) Schwartz, Katie (Cam) Travis, and Alex Schwartz; 24 great-grandchildren; one sister, Betty (Tony) Callahan; and one sister-in-law, Shirley Meyer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; two sons, James Schwartz and Ronald Schwartz; parents, Leo and Florence Meyer; one sister, Pearl (Howard) Buckley; three brothers, Leroy (Rosie) Meyer, James (Ginny) Meyer, and Bill Meyer; and two grandchildren, Kara Schwartz and Samuel Schwartz.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and support.

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

Debra L. Driscoll

Debra L. “Deb” Driscoll, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Deb’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 3:45 p.m., on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a service held at 4:00 p.m.

Deb was born on February 9, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of George and Delores (Scheffert) Steuer.

Deb attended St. Mary’s Grade School, graduated from Wahlert High School and then attended the Dubuque Beauty Academy.  She was a stay at home mom before going to work at APAC Calling Center and lastly in the housekeeping department at Bethany Home.  Deb married Ronald Driscoll on October 1, 1994, in Dubuque.  Ron liked to tease Deb saying that she was a member of the “shop till you drop club”.  She was always on the look out for the next great bargain.  She had a soft spot for stray animals and has taken in several cats throughout the years.  Her family was always Deb’s top priority.  She loved spending time with Ron, the children and all of the grandchildren.  Deb was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Deb’s memory include

her loving husband,
Ron Driscoll, Dubuque, IA;

2 children,
Shelly (Bill) Bockenstedt, New Vienna, IA
and Randy (Christy) Link, Dubuque, IA;

5 grandchildren,
Ryne Baumhover, Jacob (Kaitlyn) Baumhover, Nathan Bockenstedt, Alexa (fiancé James Hudson) Link and Dallas Link;

3 great-grandchildren with another on the way,
Kip Baumhover, Landon Hudson and Bodi Hudson;

her siblings,
Rick Steuer, Dubuque, IA
and Sheila Auxier, Owensboro, KY;

and her nieces and nephews.

Deb was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother-in-law, Jim Auxier.

Deb’s family would like to thank the staff of both Paramount Ambulance and the Emergency Department at MercyOne Dubuque, for their compassionate and professional care.

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

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

Mary T. McGreal

Mary Therese McGreal was born and passed on Wednesday July 9, 2025 at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics.  Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. 

Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Mary was loved and prayed for by so many, especially in the days leading up to her birth. We pray she is united with the communion of saints and our loved ones gone before her in heaven.

 Survivors include her parents, Rachel and Joe (Timmerman) McGreal; maternal grandparents, Tom and Karen Timmerman; paternal grandparents, Peter and Kristi McGreal; maternal great-grandfather, Roman Timmerman; maternal great-grandmother, Kathryn Waterman; paternal great-grandparents, Tom and Sally McGreal; paternal great-grandfather, Jan Esch; aunts and uncles, Alex Timmerman, Erica (Ruben) Ortega, Jacob McGreal, Tim (Mandy) McGreal, Maria (Mike) Muto, Sam McGreal, and Dan McGreal; cousins, Arthur and Anne McGreal; and numerous other extended relatives.

 Mary Therese was preceded in death by her maternal great-grandparents, Cecelia Timmerman and Warren Waterman and paternal great-grandmother, Vernell Esch.

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

Alma M. Thein

Alma M. Thein, age 77, of Dubuque, passed away surrounded by her family on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, at her home.  To celebrate Alma’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  There will be a service and a time to share memories at 7:00 p.m.

Alma was born on August 22, 1947, in Santiago Papasquiaro, Durango, Mexico, the daughter of Luis Lopez and Elisa Rodriguez.

Alma met her soulmate, Dale Thein, while he was serving in the military in El Paso.  They married on July 8, 1967, on the Army base in El Paso, Texas.  They had 3 children together and would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary this year.  She was employed as a the Lead in the Wiring Department with Barnstead Thermolyne and Thermographics, until her retirement in 2010.  Alma and Dale were quite the card players and enjoyed attending Euchre Tournaments.  She was also known to engage in a little “retail therapy” from time to time.  Everyone who knew her, knew that Alma’s flower beds were her passion in life.  She had countless flower beds and potted plants all around her home, making it a peaceful oasis.  Alma definitely loved family time.  She always looked forward to spending time with the extended group whenever she could.  We are deeply saddened at losing our wonderful wife, mom, grandma and great-grandma, but know that she is now resting peacefully free from her health issues.

Those left to cherish Alma’s memory include

her husband,
Dale Thein, Dubuque, IA;

3 children,
Jessica (Shane) Picker, East Dubuque, IL,
Bobbi Jo Thein, Clinton, IA
and Mark Thein, Dubuque, IA;

7 grandchildren,
Zach Picker, Zane Picker, Shana Thein, Elijah Osterhaus, Ricki (Wyatt) Sharkey, Evan Herbst and Xavier Thein;

5 great-grandchildren,
Emmitt Thein, Rayden Arensdorf, Adam Arensdorf, Theo Thein and Parker Osterhaus;

4 siblings,
Beverly (Dave) Clark, Indianapolis, IN,
Robert (Margaret) Hardy,
Ron (Chirley) Hardy
and Russell (Anna) Hardy, all of The Woodlands, TX;

and a sister-in-law,
Janelle Thein, Dubuque, IA.

Alma was preceded in death by her parents; her mother who raised her, Elizabeth Cazares Hardy; a brother, Clayton Hardy; and her in-laws, Shirley (Alvin) Marshall, Janet (John) Kirkpatrick, Arthur Thein and Melvin Thein.

Alma’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the ICU and 5th floor of UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding care.

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

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

Robert E. Peil Sr.,

Robert E. Peil Sr., age 76, of Dubuque, passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.  To celebrate Bob’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

Bob was born on April 26, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Lester and Florence (Bresee) Peil.

Bob married Nancy Kelley-Seely in Dubuque on April 21, 1980.  He worked with Morrison Brothers before he was sidelined due to his health issues.  He was a huge Bingo player and used to play at venues all over town with Nancy, their daughter, Paula, and Nancy’s sister, Eilean Marshall.  Bob and Nancy, Paula, Eilean, and Mike and Linda Kelley also took car rides every Sunday, which always ended with an ice cream treat.  One of the highlights of their adventures was a cruise to Hawaii a few years ago.  Bob loved his family and he will be missed tremendously.

Those left to cherish Bob’s memory include

his wife,
Nancy Peil, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Timothy Seely, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Paula Peil, Dubuque, IA,
Robert Peil, Jr., Cedar Rapids, IA
and a granddaughter they raised, Lexie Peil, Dubuque, IA;

10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren;

a sister,
Diane (Jerry) Overturf, Bellevue, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Janice Peil, Dubuque, IA;

and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and 3 brothers, Raymond Peil, William “Billy” Peil and John “Jack” Peil.

Bob’s family would like to thank Dr. Hermann, Dr. Cao and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and compassionate care.

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