Obituaries Archive

Judith Bussan

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend Judith “Judy” Bussan, 83, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 15, 2026, at Luther Manor in Asbury, Iowa. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 9 AM until the time of mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Born June 17, 1942, in Galena, IL, Judy was the oldest child of Elizabeth “Betty” and George Houtakker, both of whom preceded her in death. She married Terrance “Terry” Bussan on September 2, 1963, and together they shared 36 beautiful years of marriage. He preceded her in death on December 10, 1999.

Judy began her professional life as a beautician before eventually running the family hardware business alongside her beloved late husband, Terry. Later, she found great pride in her work at Holland’s in Galena, where she helped customers thoughtfully design kitchens and baths. In retirement, she continued caring for her community by volunteering at the Galena Area Food Pantry.

She was a woman of remarkable strength and resiliency. Strong-willed, sharp-minded, and endlessly capable. There was rarely a problem she could not solve or something around the house she could not fix herself. Throughout her life, she brought that same determination and devotion into both her work and the way she loved her family. If you knew Judy – or ever drove past her home on Franklin St – you knew her yard was her sanctuary. Lovingly cultivated season after season with patience, precision, and pride, she found so much joy in tending to her garden, where every flower bed and rose bush was perfectly kept. Her yard reflected the care and attention she brought to everything. She believed a home should feel warm and welcoming, and nowhere was that more evident than in her kitchen, where she created unforgettable meals for family and friends. Fresh herbs from her garden often found their way into the dishes she prepared, blending her love of gardening and cooking.

She is survived by her children, Craig (Rhonda) Bussan and Tracy (Miles) Doyle, grandchildren Alex and Megan Bussan and Jacob Doyle, brother Jim (Shirley) Houtakker, sister Kathy (Stephen) Napp, special friend & companion, Charles “Charlie” Birkett, along with many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Luther Manor, and most recently, Hospice of Dubuque, for the compassion, care, and support they provided to Judy over the last nine years. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Galena Area Food Pantry in her name.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Howard J. Hubbell

Howard J. Hubbell, 78, of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away Monday, May 18, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Visitation will be held 4 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Iowa. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church prior to funeral services.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Mary 28, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Guttenberg, Iowa with burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery, in Guttenberg. Rev. Paul Kwaku-Ameyaw will officiate.

Howard was born on January 6, 1948, in Waterloo, Iowa, son of Howard and Dorothy (Hayes) Hubbell.  He married Linda Culligan on June 20, 1970, in Fayette, Iowa.

He dedicated his life to education, mentorship, and service, leaving a lasting impact on countless students, athletes, and members of the community. As a respected teacher, coach, and athletic director, he was passionate about helping others grow both on and off the field. Outside of school, he found great joy in sports, whether cheering on his favorite teams or reminiscing about his own days playing slow-pitch softball with friends in his younger years. He also enjoyed spending quiet moments reading and staying connected with those around him.

Following retirement, he continued serving others in a role he truly loved as a school bus driver, where he enjoyed visiting with students and remaining part of the school community that meant so much to him. He treasured his nightly drives and short trips around the area, often taking the scenic route because, as many knew, he never liked going the same way twice. He most cherished memories made traveling on vacation with Linda and Mitchell.

Deeply devoted to his community, he was an active supporter of local events, schools, and organizations, always willing to lend a hand or offer encouragement wherever it was needed.

Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Linda; children: Carolyn (Robert) Nutt of Pleasant Hill, Dayna (Perry Behrend) Hubbell of Garber, Mitchell Hubbell of Pleasant Hill; grandchildren: Erin (Tristan Cobb) Nutt, Brady (Kaitlyn Koehn) Behrend; siblings: Mark (Jill) Hubbell of West Union and Julie Hubbell of Cedar Rapids; in-laws: Mary (Tim) Burke of Storm Lake, Jayne (Ken) Lang of Emmetsburg, Don (Kim) Culligan of Sioux Falls, SD and Linda Culligan of Carroll. Many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Susan Hubbell and Robert Hubbell; and a brother-in-law, Mike Culligan.

The family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care.

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.

Ray R. Yager

Ray R. Yager, Jr. 74, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center surrounded by his family. He handled his 7-year battle with cancer with grace and cherished every moment with his family.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque. Sharing time and concluding prayers will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Ray was born in Dubuque, IA on November 22, 1951, the son of Ray Sr. and Lillian (Brenner) Yager. He drove semi for Crete Carrier for many years until his retirement. Dianne would ride along when given the chance and those moments were always special for them.

Ray loved fishing, camping and Nascar Racing. Dale Earnhardt Sr. was always his favorite. Ray especially loved doing body and mechanical work on cars with his son Josh. A favorite project was always working on his son’s Nova with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, William Brimmer and Betty Brimmer.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory include his wife of 45 years, Dianne; son, Joshua Yager of Dubuque, granddaughter’s Makayla (River) Yager, Alexis Yager and Isabella Yager all of Dubuque; his brother, Dwight (Janet) Yager of Dubuque; brothers and sisters-in-law: Noel Fries, Lianne Brimmer, Pat (Brimmer) Mohr, James and Susan Brimmer, Susan E. (Brimmer) Welsh and Charles Brimmer, Jr.; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman and nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center for the special care they gave to Ray.

Mary L. Gerlach

Mary L. Gerlach, age 59, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey suddenly on May 14, 2026, at home.  To honor Mary’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2025 Jackson Street, with Rev. Jonathan Crawford officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 8:30-10:15 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on December 24, 1966, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to William and Jeannine (Clough) Gerlach. Growing up, she found joy in dancing and singing like nobody was watching. She cared deeply for her family and friends. Her main career path was in customer service as she enjoyed interacting with others, joking and laughing. Her laughter was so very contagious. One of her most meaningful work experiences was when she worked side-by-side with her sister at Sherry’s House of Hair where they made many great memories together. When she transitioned to work at the Julien Inn Dubuque, she met her future husband Jim. Her “Happy Place” was with family, enjoying the simple things like soaking up the sun’s rays on a nice day, while her husband Jim did a little grilling out. If the neighborhood kiddos happened to be passing by, they could always trust that she had a cool popsicle ready for all of them to enjoy. Mary and Jim also made it a point in their lives to take care of those around them who were less fortunate.

Mary made the most with what the Lord gave her and faced each day with the goal of being the best self she could be. Although taken so fast, through her faith and dedication to Jesus, she now lives in eternal perfection with Jesus at her side and only has to wait for those of us whom she loved and adored to join her once again. Not one more difficult day will Mary ever have to face and in that we find both hope and peace even with our broken hearts forced to endure the difficult days ahead. Thank you, Mary, for leaving sweet memories where you thought it was just another moment mixed within another day and may the Lord keep you held so securely in His loving and grace-filled arms that you only have to think of us when we suddenly appear before you in time. We will love and miss you dearly until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include,

her loving husband of 14 years,
James “Jim” LuGrain, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Sean Stevens, Dubuque, IA,
Amber (Jason) Jones, Bixby, OK,
Jordanne Stevens, Anamosa, IA,
and A.J. LuGrain, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Zion Stevens, Zayn Stevens, Jeannasea Stevens Fullbright, Irina Jones, Aria Jones, Naomi Jones, Ciaran “Ezra” Jones and Aila Jones;

her siblings,
Diane (Ed) Ernst, Monroe, WI,
Sherry (William) Trickel-White, Asbury, IA,
Tammy Danz, Platteville, WI,
Sylvan Gerlach, Cambodia,
Ronda Jasper, Dubuque,
and Ron (Missy) Gerlach, East Dubuque, IL;

her brother-in-law,
Ron Regich, Tucson, AZ;

her sister-in-law,
Angela Gerlach, Brooklyn, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, William and Jeannine (Clough) Gerlach; and her siblings, Linda Regich, Tina (Steve) Udelhoven and Bill Gerlach.

Mary’s family would like to thank everyone at the Dubuque Police Department and the Dubuque County Medical Examiner’s Office for all of their professional and compassionate care during this most difficult time.

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

Noel C. Stecher

Noel C. Stecher, 89, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly at home on Friday, May 15, 2026. Visitation will be from 10:30–11:45 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, where a funeral Mass will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. A livestream of the funeral mass can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/event/5941327

Noel was born at home on a blustery Christmas Day to Anton and Leona (Schueller) Stecher. The sixth of nine children, he grew up working hard on the family farm—a foundation that shaped the rest of his life. His siblings affectionately called him Bruddy, and many others knew him simply as Bud. No matter the name, everyone knew him as a man whose humility and steady work ethic defined him.

In 1958, he married Pearl Schmitt, and together they built a family of six children. Noel worked tirelessly his entire life and took great pride in never missing a day of work—something he maintained until his family finally convinced him to slow down. Even then, he never considered himself retired. As a young man, he became a small business owner and spent the next 62 years growing Key City Moving and Storage. Through his work, he met countless customers who became lifelong friends. Noel had a gift for offering a warm smile, a quick joke, or a bit of friendly conversation to anyone he met—stranger or not.

Outside of work, Noel enjoyed golfing, playing Euchre, and traveling to visit his children and friends across the country. For many years, he was a proud member of the “Know It All” Club at one of his favorite spots, the Moracco, where his humor and easygoing nature fit right in.

He is survived by his wife, Pearl; his children, Pam of Denver, CO, Barb (Dan) Holmgren of Kansas City, MO, Shelly (Jerry) Rose of Prescott, AZ, Mike (Lori) of Dubuque, David (Kari) of Des Moines, IA, and Rick of Dubuque; his grandchildren, David (Michele) Holmgren, Melanie Holmgren, Natalie Holmgren, Jason Waligorski, Sara (Jonathan) Chavez, Shane Still, Dillon (Shayna) Stecher, Audrey (Ben) Pregler, Dallas (Logan) Stecher, Valerie Stecher, Will Stecher, and Noel Stecher, Michael (Nancy) Rose and Dan (Tassia) Rose; his great‑grandchildren, Madeline Waligorski, Ella Mau, Elle Holmgren, Pearl Stecher, Nikolas Chavez, and Teddy Pregler; and his sisters, Loretta Behnke and Joyce Schmitt, and sisters-in-laws, Carol Stecher and Jeannie Stecher.

Noel was preceded in death by his parents; his in‑laws, Carl and Magdeline (Tigges) Schmitt; his brothers and sisters, Lorraine (Clem) Aird, Mary (Alfred) Hirsch, Victor (Lou Ann) Stecher, Eileen (Larry) Fischer, Alfred (Fritz) Behnke, Joseph Stecher, Loras (Sue) Stecher, and Gerald Schmitt.

Noel will be remembered for his gentle demeanor, his humble and generous heart, and the kindness he shared so freely. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friends he made, and the countless lives he touched simply by being himself.

Cathy Jobgen-Calvert

Cathy Jobgen-Calvert, 68, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Galena.

She was born in Galena on August 12, 1957, the daughter of Virginia Turpin-Mefford and Joseph Jobgen. Cathy graduated from Galena High School in 1975, graduated from Capri College, and worked as a cosmetologist for 10 years. Cathy later worked as a CNA and Medication Aide and at the Jo Daviess County workshop up to her retirement.

Cathy’s true passion was caring for others; it brought her incredible joy working with the consumers at The Workshop and in the memory care units at nursing homes in Dubuque.

Cathy married Roger Weis in 1976 and through this marriage, had three children, Stacy, Robby, and Sean. She later married the love of her life, Kenneth Calvert, and they had two children, Jennifer and Casey. Being a Mom, Grandma, and Wife was her greatest accomplishment and blessing in life. Cathy was a former member of Galena EMS, the Galena Elks Lodge, and was nominated as “Mother of the Year” in 2022.

She enjoyed decorating cakes for various weddings, celebrations, and her grandchildren’s birthdays. Cathy was a woman of faith, and her warm smile and calming presence were noticed by all who met her. She jumped at the opportunity to participate in and dress up for fun, festive occasions. She loved to laugh and never took life too seriously. Cathy loved spending time with her GHS classmates and friends, and with her family, especially her children and grandchildren.

Cathy is survived by her loving husband Kenneth Calvert, two daughters, Stacy (Serg) Bouldoukian of Galena, Jennifer (Kaleb) Dubale of Sioux Falls, SD, three sons, Robert (Elly) Weis of Dubuque, IA, Sean (Cassie) Weis of Dubuque, Casey (Veronica) Calvert of Maricopa, AZ, her beloved grandchildren Kristin and Allyson Farrey, Khloe Bouldoukian, Izabelle, Lydia, Tate, and Avah Weis, Hope Weis, Charlie and Juliana Dubale, two brothers, Gary (Mary) Jobgen, of Galena and Randy (Julie) Jobgen, of Port Charlotte, FL, and her very dear friend, Suzette Einsweiler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws, Rosie and Kenneth Calvert, and two brothers, Richard and Robert Jobgen.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Avera Hospice, Sioux Falls, SD, for their loving care. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Margaret V. Schiel

Wanda K. Cass

Wanda K. Cass, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, May 18, 2026, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Wanda Kay Cass was born July 11, 1939, at home in Baldwin, Iowa, to Herman S. and Beulah Mae (McNamee) Welch.  She graduated from Monmouth High School.  Wanda married Robert O. Filloon on July 14, 1959, at the Methodist Church in Delmar, Iowa.

In her younger years, Wanda worked as a babysitter and bartended in the Maquoketa area.  She worked as a CNA for 17 years at Crestridge Nursing Home, which later became Jackson Ridge Nursing Home.  Wanda enjoyed being outdoors, going camping, fishing, and going on motorcycle and car rides.  She was skilled at crafts, especially painting and crocheting and doing puzzles.  She loved making fried chicken and fried potatos.  Most importantly, she loved spending time with her family as much as possible.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Machell Filloon of Maquoketa, IA, and Mark (Jody) Filloon of Maquoketa, IA; 11 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; sisters, Beverly Kemp of KS, and Mary Binns of Maquoketa, IA; sister-in-law, Carol Welch of DeWitt, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert O., sons Robert Joseph and James Lee, brother Keith Welch, grandchildren Jonathan Filloon and Adrienne Filloon, great-granddaughter Saylee Parks, great-grandson Tyler LaFrenz, brothers-in-law Lavern Kemp and Gary Binns , daughters–in–law Laurie Feuss and Robin Filloon, and best friends Mary Hicks and Charlie Garien.

A graveside service and burial will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, May 22, 2026, at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.  There is no public visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Wanda K. Cass memorial fund has been established.

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

Marvin L. Schieltz

Marvin L. “Marv” Schieltz, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Friday, May 15, 2026, at home after a courageous battle with cancer.  To celebrate Marv’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 6:30 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Raymond A. Burkle officiating.  Burial will be in Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa, at a later date.

Marv was born on February 8, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Vincent and Armella (Oberbrockling) Schieltz.

Marv graduated from Leo High School in Holy Cross, Iowa, Class of 1959.  He honorably served his country with the U.S. Navy during Vietnam, serving on the USS Forrestal CVA59 from 1963-1965.  He married Mary Jane “Janie” Digman on August 5, 1967, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville, Wisconsin.  They made a wonderful life together and were blessed with 3 children.  Marv was always a hard worker and was employed by John Deere Dubuque Works as an Assembler for 41 years, retiring in 2006.  He was also very active in his community.  Marv was member of Holy Ghost Church since 1970.  He served as a Parish Council member, Eucharistic Minister, parish visitor to the care facilities, sang in the choir, helped with couple to couple marriage preparation and volunteered working Bingo.  He loved all sports, whether he was watching or playing.  He played with the John Deere softball league, enjoyed golfing and watching stock car and NASCAR racing.  He was a die hard Dodgers fan and rarely missed a game.  Marv and Janie loved to travel and were members of several camping groups including the Winnebago International Travelers, Iowa Winnie Hawks State Club, and the Busy Bee Winnies Local Chapter.  They drove their motor home all across the US and Canada.  Marv’s family was always his top priority, and he loved watching all of the grandkids activities.  Marv was a good man and an excellent role model for his family and friends.  He will be missed tremendously.

Those left to cherish Marv’s memory include

his wife of 58 years,
Janie Schieltz, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Randal (Emily) Schieltz, Boone, IA,
Julie (Scott) Hogland, Dane, WI
and Dan (Lea Droessler) Schieltz, Golden, CO;

10 grandchildren,
Kelsey (Dave) DeMeuse, Kaitlin (Patrick) Rooney, Alex (Grace) Schieltz, Travis (Elizabeth) Schieltz, Erin Schieltz, Jacob (fiancé Mikaila Olsen) Hogland, Sam Hogland, Zach (Meg) Schieltz, Meredith (partner Casey) Schieltz and Michael (Tess Kachiroubas) Droessler;

8 great grandchildren;

his siblings,
Dorothy Schieltz, Farley, IA,
Dave (Claire) Schieltz, Castle Rock, CO,
Harold (Darlene) Schieltz, Holy Cross, IA
and Carol (Tom) Peterson, Muscatine, IA;

and a brother-in-law,
Bob (Chris) Digman, Platteville, WI.

Marv was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Esther Schieltz, Rosie Digman and Mary (Leo) Backes; and a brother, Joseph Schieltz.

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

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

Holly L. Nims

Holly L. Nims, 56, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, May 16, 2026, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, following a long battle with Huntington’s Disease.

Holly Lynn Nims was born on October 6, 1969 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Vernon “Bub” and Melissa (Gottschalk) Nims.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1988 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.

After high school, Holly continued her education at Iowa State University before beginning work as a nanny in Las Vegas, Nevada. She later returned to Maquoketa and worked at Prairie House. It was in her hometown that she met Scott Collins, who was serving in the Air Force at the time. The two were united in marriage on April 3, 1998, in Maquoketa, Iowa. Their journey took them to Fayetteville, North Carolina, and later to San Antonio, Texas, before they returned home to Maquoketa after Scott’s retirement from the Air Force.

Once back in Maquoketa, Holly found what she considered her dream job as a Teacher’s Associate in the BD Classroom at Maquoketa Middle School. She devoted 22 and a half years to that role before retiring.

Holly enjoyed gardening and had long worked alongside her dad at Nims Garden in Maquoketa. She also loved artwork and drawing, and she found joy in sharing her creativity with others. She was an animal lover who rescued many animals in need, and her gentle heart was evident in the care she gave to both people and creatures alike. Those who knew Holly will remember her as someone who found beauty in simple things, and who approached life with quiet strength and grace.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband Scott Collins of Portland, OR; son, Dylan Monroe of Maquoketa, IA; father and step-mother, Vernon “Bub” and Robin Nims of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Megan (Kyle) Simmons of Maquoketa, IA, Michael (Bridget) Nims of Maquoketa, IA, and DJ Bean of Marion, IA; one grandson, Drayden; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents, and her mother Melissa Bean.

A celebration of Holly’s life will be held at 12 P.M., Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Holly L. Nims memorial fund has been established.

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

Melvin A. Ward

Melvin A. Ward, age 95, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly Mission, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026. In honor of Mel’s life, his immediate family will have a private Celebration of Life. Mel was deeply loved by his family and he found such joy in being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. We are sad at the loss of Mel, but take comfort in the knowledge that he is in heaven and free of all his health issues, and reunited with his beloved wife, Jane.

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

Kathy M. Schueler

Donald A. Schemmel

Donald A. “Pops” Schemmel, 87, of Waupeton, Iowa, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2026, peacefully at home.

Friends and family may visit Monday, May 18, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 218 Main St. North Buena Vista, IA. Additional visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Marvin Bries officiating at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Burial and full military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #137 will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.

Don was born in Cascade, Iowa on July 23, 1938, the son of Anthony and Ida (Kremer) Schemmel. He attended Derby Grange School through the eighth grade. He proceeded to work on the family farm until 1961, when he joined the United States Army. He served two years active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis as a light vehicle driver.

He married Diane Merfeld on October 29, 1966, at St. Joseph the Worker in Dubuque, Iowa. Don spent his career as a small engine mechanic in the garage at John Deere Dubuque Works from 1965-1996 and retired after 30 years of service.

Don was a member of the Balltown and Asbury Snowmobile clubs for many years. He also enjoyed working at the Buenie Picnic every year and served as the official money carrier. Most of all Don enjoyed spending time with family and friends at Waupeton, where he served as the water works coordinator. He enjoyed quiet days of fishing, going for pontoon rides, hosting fish fries, and snowmobiling with his many friends. He loved his family with all his heart. He was the best father, grandfather, and friend to everyone he knew.

He is survived by his loving wife Diane, of 59 years; their children: Rodney (Dawn) Schemmel, Lisa (Joe) Rettenmeier of Dubuque, and Lynette (Dane) Wilwert of North Buena Vista; grandchildren: Ashley (Justin) Becker, Jacob (Emily) Schemmel, Matthew Schemmel, Lukas Rettenmeier, Joshua (Summer) Rettenmeier, Dustin (Emily) Wilwert, Tyler (Brianna Krum) Wilwert, and Addison Wilwert; great grandchildren: Dason, Paxton, Lennox Wilwert, Bexleigh Becker, and soon to be Baby Boy Rettenmeier; siblings: Elsie Payton, Joyce Tigges, Marge Schemmel, Joe (Diane) Schemmel, Tony Schemmel, Bob (Cindy) Schemmel, Coralee Schaumburg, and Chuck (Sharon) Schemmel; siblings-in-law: Millie (Randy) Dolter, David Merfeld, Eldon (Connie) Merfeld, Carol Miller, Shirley Smith, Adele Merfeld, and Pat Merfeld.

He is preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Nick and Marie Merfeld; siblings Wayne (Millie) Schemmel, Jim Schemmel, Rick (Carol) Schemmel, Laura Schemmel, Lois (Bob) Gruel, Delrose (Pete) O’Meara, and Fred Schaumburg.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

We are so thankful for the people who made life easier for the Schemmel Family. Those individuals include Hospice caregivers-Betsy, Ryan, and Jennie. Friends: Jim Osterburger, Tom Brimeyer (Balltown), Dale and Mary Doty. Grandchildren who stayed with grandpa during his final days: Lukas Rettenmeier, Tyler Wilwert, and Jacob Schemmel, along with great niece Jaelyn Grant. We also wanted to say a special thank you to the Sherrill Fire Department for their compassionate care during his final months.

Michael J. Talbert

Michael J. Talbert, age 75, of Peosta, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at home with his loving wife by his side.  In keeping with Michael’s wishes there will not be a public service held at this time.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Michael’s family.

Michael was born on October 18, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois.

Michael married Nancy Pfab on June 10, 1994, in Las Vegas, Nevada.  He worked as a mechanic at Captive Plastics in Peosta and was lastly employed at Kohl’s.  In his free time, Michael enjoyed watching TV, especially science fiction shows.  Michael was a man who enjoyed his quiet time and loved spending time at home with Nancy.  He also had an adventurous side, and was thrilled when he was able to fulfill his dream of going sky diving.  Michael will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Those left to cherish Michael’s memory include

his wife,
Nancy Talbert, Peosta, IA;

4 children, 2 step-children;

several grandchildren;

and his siblings.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.

Michael’s family would like to thank Dr. Hermann, Dr. Kirkendall and Hospice of Dubuque for the kind and compassionate care they provided

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

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

Eugene G. Loeffelholz

Eugene “Gene” G. Loeffelholz, 73, of Dubuque, died Saturday, May 16, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Gene will be 10:30 am Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Gene was born on July 26, 1952 in Cuba City, Wisconsin to Rudy and Mabel (Kaiser) Loeffelholz. He grew up on a family farm in Dickeyville, Wisconsin. He had many neighbors, friends and relatives who will remember his hard work, and willingness to help on their farms.

Gene was a 1971 graduate of Cuba City High School where he qualified for state in wrestling during his senior year. Later, he married Sandi K. Hartung on August 29, 1975. Gene told his sons that this was the happiest day of his life. They have three sons: Rick (Kylie), John (Emina) and Ben (Kate). He worked as a semi driver for 40 years.

In retirement, he and Sandi spent five summers working at Adventureland, where he was an assistant manger of rides. The next four summers were spent working in Estes Park, CO at the Rocky Mtn. National Park as bus drivers, trolley drivers, and shuttle drivers. Finally, they enjoyed working together as bus drivers for the Dubuque Community School District.

Gene enjoyed family gatherings and organized many fun filled family reunions.  At Christmas he always enjoyed a good game of Monopoly. He loved being active outdoors, camping, riding Ragbrai (20 years), Ride the Rockies, ice fishing, canoeing, and being with friends and family. He enjoyed these activities and traveling to National Parks with Sandi; he especially enjoyed attending and being involved with Rick, John, and Ben’s sporting activities. Gene spent his later years in life loving and supporting his grandchildren: Ty, Emmie, Mila, Ellie and Frankie.

Those left to cherish Gene’s memory are his wife, Sandi; his sons; five grandchildren; his mother-in-law, Rose Hartung; siblings, Jeanette (Joe) Henkels & Jerry (Pat) Loeffelholz; in-laws, Barb Loeffelholz, Gary Koltes, Dave Wittstock, Judy Nivarel, Nancy (Mike) Glab, Al (Linda) Hartung, Mark (Sue) Hartung, and Cherie (Don) Waller; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents, his father-in-law, Leonard Hartung, siblings Howard Loeffelholz and Mary Ann Koltes and sister-in-law, Donna Wittstock.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the DCSD Pool starting blocks project.

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