Obituaries Archive

Joseph Hannaman

Joseph “Joey” Hannaman, 62, of Galena, IL, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, January 10, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 to 4 PM on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Galena Eagles Club. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on January 6, 1964, in Galena, the son of George and Joyce (Holgate) Hannaman. Joe graduated from Galena High School in 1983 and worked as a dough maker for Happy Joe’s in Galena for many years. He enjoyed fishing, buying antiques, collecting guns and knives, and playing bingo. Joe loved engaging in conversation and will be remembered as the unregistered mayor of Gear Street. He was a well-known figure in Galena, often seen walking downtown or chatting with people in front of his house.

Joe is survived by four brothers: Roy, James, David, and George Hannaman; four sisters: Marian Vaassen, Jane Vaassen, Ann (friend Joe) Laird, and Joyce Hannaman; and a sister-in-law, Jean Hannaman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Paul, and a sister-in-law, Alice Hannaman.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the doctors and staff at Midwest Medical Center and to the many friends and neighbors in the city of Galena for always looking out for Joe.

 

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

Linda M. Watters

Linda Marie Watters, 84, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, January 26, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Linda will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church with Rev. Stephanie Schlimm and Pastor Karen Candee officiating. Burial will be at Center Grove Cemetery in Dubuque.

Linda was born October 20, 1941, in Muncie, IN, the daughter of J. Woodrow and Emmagene (Ullery) Walz. She was united in marriage to Bruce Watters on September 7, 2013 in Dubuque.

Linda began her college career at Purdue University and later graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Dubuque.

Linda worked for Trilog, Interstate Power, and most recently the Dubuque Arboretum.

Her faith was of utmost importance to her, and she was a devoted member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, where she was actively involved in the inner workings of the church and served on numerous committees. Linda was also a talented seamstress who created many beautiful pieces. She also enjoyed quiet moments spent with a good book or magazine.

Linda was kind, gentle, and generous to a fault. She would always put others before her own needs. She gave of herself when she saw someone in need and never expected anything in return. She is greatly missed by her family and husband.

Survivors include husband, Bruce Watters of Dubuque; one step-son, Doug Watters; one son, Jeffrey (Julie) Kring of Bellevue, IA; one daughter, Kathleen Kring of Kansas City, MO; two grandsons, Griffin and Peyton; brother, J.W. “Jay” (Carmen) Walz; her first husband and father of Jeffrey and Kathleen, Dennis Kring; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Carole (Dr. James) Prawat.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church or to Summit UCC.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the nurses and staff at Luther Manor memory care unit and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the loving care they gave Linda.

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

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Kenneth R. Schroeder

Kenneth R. “Ken” Schroeder, 81, died at home in Asbury on January 12, 2026.

Born on May 5, 1944, Ken grew up as one of eight children on a dairy farm in Blue Grass, Iowa. He successfully showed Brown Swiss cows, was an officer of FFA, lettered in high school football, and was a member of the Homecoming Court alongside his high school sweetheart and future wife, Kay (Baker) Schroeder, whom he married on May 29, 1966.

Ken and Kay attended Iowa State University together, where Ken earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Agricultural Engineering. Ken’s father had promised his mother that all of their children would attend college, and at one point Ken and four of his siblings were enrolled at Iowa State simultaneously. While there, Ken was part of the Wonder Wagon “Works” team in the Agricultural Machinery Design course, which designed and built a self-loading manure spreader. His photo was even featured in the newspaper as he inspected the idler sprocket for the elevating conveyor.

Ken carried his love of agriculture into adulthood, working proudly as an engineer for John Deere for 33 years while also owning and operating a farm in rural Dubuque County, where he and Kay raised their two children. His career with John Deere took him coast to coast in the United States and abroad to Canada, Mexico, and Japan.

Ken was a season pass holder at both Sundown Ski Area and The Meadows Golf Course and took annual winter trips to ski in Colorado, pursuits he enjoyed until just a few years ago. He was passionate about his cars, trucks, and tractors and could fix just about anything. Even in his final days, he talked about oiling machinery. Ken was detail-oriented and never hesitant to tell you if you were doing something wrong, but if you watched, listened, and learned, you came away better for it.

In retirement, Ken and Kay traveled extensively. Whether it was Oceania cruises around the world or vacations to the mountains and beaches with dear Deere friends, a memorable trip to Italy with Kay’s brother Paul (navigating ever-narrowing roads in the tiniest car), travel brought them great joy.

Survivors include his wife, Kay of Dubuque; two children, Paul (Linda) Schroeder of Dubuque and Janelle (Michael Bland) Schroeder of Indian Shores, Florida; two grandchildren, Holly (Logan) Mihm and Mason Schroeder; six siblings, Larry (Jackie) Schroeder of Muscatine, Iowa; Cynthia (Curt) Wheeler of Rossmoor, California; Janice O’Neel of Ankeny, Iowa; Keith Schroeder of Blue Grass, Iowa; Bill (Brenda) Schroeder of Rock Island, Illinois; and Lynn (Mary) Schroeder of Ames, Iowa; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by one sister, Carol Jean Mitten.

A Gathering of Family and Friends for Ken will be held from 9 AM until Noon on February 7, 2026, at The Meadows Golf Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Ken’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care and support.

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

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

Kathleen A. Hein

Kathleen A. Hein, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the church with Very Rev. Phillip Gibbs officiating. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Kathleen was born on January 17, 1942, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of LaVerne and Helen (Berry) Green. She graduated from Cedar Rapids Regis Catholic High School. She was united in marriage to Robert Hein on September 10, 1966. She worked for Dr. R. Scott Carins for 24 years.

She is survived by her husband Bob of Dubuque; children, Sara (Brian) Kaser of Fort Myers, Florida, and Brian (Elly) Hein of Johnston, Iowa; two grandchildren, Aspen and Ava Hein; and sisters-in-law Susan Green and Mary Ann (Pete) Welbes.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers Dave Green and Michael “Mick” Green.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their care of Kathleen.

Bonnie Mae Osterkamp

Bonnie Mae Osterkamp, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at home.

Bonnie Mae Sutton was born on November 11, 1946, in Clinton, Iowa, to James W. Sr. and Opal Elizabeth (Reimer) Sutton.  She was a Maquoketa High School graduate.  She worked as a waitress for area restaurants for many years.

Bonnie enjoyed sewing, gardening, and spending time with her dogs.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Wendy (Ken) Thomas of Georgina, AL, Charlene French of Dubuque, IA, Sue (Phil) Gibson of Knoxville, IA, and Heidi (Bobby) Krum of Amber, IA; 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mary Riley of Mount Pleasant, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, brother James W. “Sonny” Sutton Jr., brother-in-law John Riley, and a son Charles Risden Jr.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa.  A private burial will be held at the Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

Steven Rutz

Steven Rutz, 78, of Farley, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 3–7 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Kramer‑Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville. Visitation will continue on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Dubuque, where a memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Steve was born on February 28, 1947, in Manila, Iowa, to Amos and Doris (Ramsey) Rutz. He grew up in Manning, where he graduated from Manning High School in 1965. Even as a young man, Steve embraced life with energy and enthusiasm—quarterbacking the football team, playing baseball, performing in drama, playing tuba in the band, and coaching the Manning swim team to an almost‑perfect three‑year record.

He continued his education at the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 1969. During his time there, he competed on the gymnastics team, specializing in trampoline, and later earned his master’s degree in school administration from UNI in 1975.

On September 11, 1971, Steve married Marilyn Engelken at St. Boniface in New Vienna. Their story began at Farley Junior High, where Marilyn worked as the school secretary and Steve taught math and PE while coaching football, track, and wrestling. Their partnership became the foundation of a beautiful life together.

Steve dedicated 39 years to education, shaping countless students and communities. He continued serving the Western Dubuque Community School District as an Assistant High School Principal and athletic director in Cascade. He also guided students as Student Council Advisor, traveling with them to national conventions. Over the years, he served as principal at Cascade and Bernard Elementary Schools, with additional roles at Dyersville Elementary and Epworth Early Childhood. After retiring in 2004, he continued his commitment to education in East Dubuque schools.

Service to others was woven into Steve’s character. He was a charter member and first president of the Cascade Lions Club, helped build Habitat for Humanity homes in Dubuque, traveled twice to Biloxi after Hurricane Katrina, assisted with tornado cleanup in Parkersburg, served on church council, and contributed his time on the Jo Daviess County Supervisors board.

Sports were a lifelong passion. Steve officiated wrestling for 29 years, but track and field held his heart. For 50 years, he served as a track official at every level—from junior high meets to NCAA championships. In 2018, he fulfilled a dream when he was invited to serve as a starter at the Drake Relays.

Outside of his many commitments, Steve embraced life’s joys. He loved golfing, playing chess, skydiving, researching his family genealogy, riding his Harley, attending concerts and plays, and never turned down a good card game. His quick wit and warm sense of humor were constants—gifts he shared generously with everyone around him.

Steve’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn; his children Troy (Anita) of Johnston, Stephanie (Adam) Fuller of Pleasant Hill, Jill of Grimes, and Julie of Cascade; and his grandchildren Jack and Kristin Rutz and Brynn, Cohen, and Shae Fuller. He is also survived by his siblings Bruce, Kent (Beth), Sue (Jay) Coon, and Karl (Donna); his sisters‑ and brothers‑in‑law Sharon and Duane Petsche, Bonnie and Kenny Schroeder, Jane and Phil DeShaw, Pat and Carol Engelken, Lynnan and Mark Roeder, and Brian and Kathy Engelken; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his father‑ and mother‑in‑law, Gerald and Rita Engelken.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque or Camp Courageous of Iowa—organizations that reflect Steve’s lifelong commitment to compassion and service.

Steve’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, UW Health – Madison, and Medical Associates for the exceptional care, kindness, and support they provided.

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.

Janet Blum

Janet Blum, 91, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026 at home, surrounded by family.

In keeping with her wishes, private family services will be held at Linwood Cemetery.

Janet was born on October 5, 1934, to Eugene and Viola (Luckritz) Hennig in Dubuque, IA.

She was united in marriage to Frederick William “Bill” Blum on April 24, 1955. The two shared 65 wonderful years together until his passing on October 11, 2020.

As a child, Janet shared many wonderful memories of ice skating with the entire family at Comisky Park and the Peosta Channel.  As she was raising her own family she spent many years as a preschool teacher at the YMCA.

In her later years she went to the University of Dubuque and graduated with a degree in Education.  She pursued substitute teaching in the local school system until her retirement.

Janet was formerly a member of Faith United Methodist Church.  She enjoyed teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir.  She was still an active participant in the ladies group called the “Former Faithers” that meet every month for lunch.

Janet was an active member of Grand View United Methodist Church where she volunteered her time sewing and quilting. She always kept herself busy!

She is survived by her children, Gregory Lee (Kathy) Blum, Catherine Jane (Dennis) Brayton, and her daughter-in-law Kietra Blum all of Dubuque; grandchildren, Crystal (Ron) Francois, Amber (Josh) Herbst, Eric and Joshua Blum, and Erik (Emily) Odegard, and Jacob Odegard; great-grandchildren RJ and Lea Francois and one more on the way.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, and oldest son, Mark in 2010.

Janet’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque and Grand View Church.

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

Renee T. Schwartz

Renee Teresa Schwartz, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, January 9, 2026 surrounded by her family.

Per Renee’s wishes, there will be no services as it’s preferred to remember the laughter and memories together instead.

Renee was born November 16, 1955 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of John and Teresa (Ruden) Hall. She graduated from Hempstead High School in 1974. On June 11, 1977, she married Jeff Schwartz in Dubuque. Together, they raised three daughters and also ran a successful plumbing business for over 35 years.

Renee was small, but mighty! There was no denying her contagious energy, wit, and humor. She enjoyed spending time cooking for her family and wonderful friends, always showing her love through making sure everyone’s bellies were full, but her main passion was spending time with her seven grandchildren. Her love for her family was endless and has left its mark on us, and anyone who knew her, forever.

Survivors include her husband of 48 years, Jeff; three daughters, Julie Oeth (Cory) of Dubuque, IA, Jodi Grieshop of Atlanta, GA, and Jill Boge (Matt) of Dubuque, IA; seven grandchildren, Jeff, Teddy, and Peri Oeth, Jacob and Olivia Grieshop, and Harper and Cameron Boge; two brothers, Randy Hall (Laura) and Russell Hall (Susan); brother-in-laws, Thomas (Rennee) Schwartz, David (Ellen) Schwartz, Russell (Angel) Schwartz, Stanley Schwartz, Joseph (Jill) Schwartz, and Edward (Melissa) Schwartz; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her son, Samuel Schwartz; parents, John and Teresa Hall; father- and mother-in-law, Frank and Jeanette Schwartz; and brother, Michael Hall.

We would like to thank the providers and caregivers in Dubuque and at the University of Hospitals, Stonehill Communities, and People Against Cancer for their support and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Stonehill Communities or Hospice of Dubuque are appreciated.

Susan K. Duster

Susan Kay Duster, wife of the late Ronald E. Duster, entered eternal life with the Lord on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Susan was born in Dubuque, Iowa, the only child of Frank J. Paar and Jaymis (Billingsley) Paar.

Susan is survived by her children: Laura (Jason) Ozenkoski, Lisa Barklow (Jeff Frick), and Brian (Stacey) Duster. Susan’s life was richly blessed with eight grandchildren: Codey (Tiffany) Ozenkoski, Jake Atchison, Whitney (Dalton) Foley, Noah (Samantha) Barklow, Keagan Duster, Payton Duster, Jaylen Duster, and Rylin Duster; and five great-grandchildren: Grayson, Remy, and Serena Ozenkoski, Ada Atchison, and Reese Foley. She is also survived by her brothers- and sisters-in-law: Darlene (Jim) Mullen, Rosemary Arensdorf, Mary Duster, and Gary (Patti) Duster; several nieces and nephews; and special friends who were like family, especially her travel buddy, Mary Ricke.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Duster; her parents, Frank and Jaymis Paar; her in-laws, Edwin and Rita (Freiburger) Duster; and brothers-in-law Elmer Arensdorf, Roger Duster (and sister-in-law Carol Duster), and Robert Duster.

Susan graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1963. After dedicating many years to raising her children at home, she worked at Target in Dubuque and at Weber Chiropractic. Following retirement, Susan and Ron embraced life on the road, traveling extensively in their RV, snowbirding in Arizona and Florida, and forming friendships across the United States.

Susan’s greatest joy was her family—her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved watching her children and especially her grandchildren participate in sports. When she wasn’t at a game, she could often be found cheering on the East Dubuque Warriors, the Iowa Hawkeyes, Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, the Miami Dolphins, and the Kansas City Chiefs. She also enjoyed a good hand of six-handed Euchre, had a passion for reading the novels of James Patterson, Stuart Woods, Janet Evanovich, and Patricia Cornwell, loved traveling cross-country with her family, and treasured lunches and dinners with family and friends.

Susan did not wish for her family and friends to mourn her passing. Instead, she wanted everyone to hug their loved ones, say “I love you” often, and truly enjoy life, as she watches over them until they are reunited again.

A private Celebration of Life luncheon will be followed by a public gathering of friends on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Timmerman’s Supper Club in East Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers, a Susan Kay Duster Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Donald V. Brimeyer

Donald V. Brimeyer, 91, of Dubuque, died Friday, January 9, 2026, at home.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Don will be 11:00 am Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery with full military honors rendered by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Donald was born September 20, 1934, in North Buena Vista, IA, the son of Vincent and Martha Wallig Brimeyer. He attended school in the North Buena Vista area. On May 29, 1956, he married the love of his life, Anna Mae Decker at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Balltown, IA.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving from 1957 until 1959. He trained at Fort Hood, TX and served 15 months at Erlanger, Germany.

Don worked at the former Dubuque Packing Company and FDL Foods for 41 years.

He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and was active with St. Anthony Boy Scout Troop #7 for many years. He enjoyed going to the farm, hunting, fishing, and working in his yard. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He and Anna enjoyed taking trips and traveled to all 50 states.

Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Anna; two sons, Rick (Janet) Brimeyer of Ames, IA, and Gary (Melissa) Brimeyer of Solon, IA; six grandchildren, Ted (Elyse) Brimeyer, Katie Morrison, Sarah (John Henry) Boylan, Ryne (Kaitlyn) Brimeyer, Travis (Samantha) Brimeyer, and Jessica (Taylor) Hotek; 14 great-grandchildren and one more on the way; and three sisters, Jeanette Pothoff of Asbury, Irma (Jim) Hefel of Balltown, and Kay (Gene) Neumann of Asbury.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father- and mother-in-law, Roy and Anna Decker, and one brother-in-law, Harlan Pothoff.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Veterans Freedom Center.

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

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

Nancy L. Dolan

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

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

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

She had worked for John Deere in Dubuque and Moline.

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

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

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

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

Dustin J. Ploessl

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

Arnieta M. Erickson

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

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

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

Those left to cherish Neat’s memory include

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

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

18 grandchildren;

29 great-grandchildren;

4 great great-grandchildren;

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donald B. Puccio

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

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

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

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

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

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

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

Mary L. Urbain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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