Obituaries Archive

Mary P. Greibe

Mary P. Greibe, 85, of Galena, IL passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, unexpectedly at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. The funeral mass will be held at 11 am, Saturday March 25, 2023,  at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call after 10 am until the time of mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, is assisting the family.

She was born November 6, 1937, in Galena the daughter of Joseph and Pauline (Bussan) Dillon. She graduated from St. Mary’s Academy, Prairie Du Chein, WI, in 1955. She went on to attend Mount Mary College and eventually graduated from Clarke College, Dubuque, IA. Mary was an elementary school teacher for 43 years until her retirement.

She married Joseph M. Greibe on July 3, 1970, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and he survives. She was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was a devoted wife and mother and will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Joseph, one daughter, Josie (Dan) Collins, of Madison, WI, a sister, Henrietta Farr of Bellingham, WA, two brothers, Martin (Joan) Dillon of Menominee, IL, and Joseph Dillon Jr. of Springfield, IL, her many nieces and nephews, and her special fur baby, Chloe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Sheila Dillon, and Ruth Dillon Schoop, and a brother-in-law Wilbur Farr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Clarke University in memory of Mary.

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

Jane A. Kemler

Jane Ann Kemler, 74, of Dubuque, died Friday, March 17, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

A funeral service will be held at 4:30 pm Monday, March 20, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:30 pm.

Jane was born January 9, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Harold F. and Patricia Rapp Kemler.

Jane graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1967. She was a member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Jane recently retired from Culvers where she was proud to have been a former Employee of the Month! She enjoyed her work at Culvers because she absolutely loved working with and being around other people. Jane was known for being a huge fan of Mickey Mouse and Disney. She also enjoyed going to the casino and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Survivors include her daughter, Heidi (Chris) Brown of Southlake, TX; two grandchildren, Brooke and Lauren; four sisters, Linda (Ron) Jump of Moline, IL, Sandy Kemler, Karen (Tom) Shaffer, and Connie Kemler all of Dubuque and nieces and nephews, Chrissy Besler, Michael  Jump, Katie Trujillo, Mac Jump, Andy Shaffer, and Ben Shaffer.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her significant other, Charles Muehlemann.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her sister, Karen for taking such great care of Jane over the years.

A memorial has been established for the Dubuque County Humane Society.

“Laughter is timeless and imagination has no age.” – Mickey Mouse

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

Shirley J. Hansen

Shirley J. Hansen, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury, Iowa.

In keeping with her wishes, private family services will be held. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Shirley was born on July 23, 1932, in Balltown, the 4th daughter of 15 children of Claretta (Brimeyer) and Leon Breitbach.  She had fond memories growing up in the small town with tales of roaming around the woods and farm, playing with her sisters and neighbors, sleigh riding, delivering milk to the church, eating her mother’s pies and riding with her father as he delivered mail.  She graduated from St. Joseph Academy high school.

She was united in marriage to Donald Hansen, on September 12, 1953, at Saint Patrick’s Church.  He passed away on March 30, 2019.

Shirley worked at the Dubuque Packing Company, then became a homemaker (with 5 children in 8 years), and later worked at the Warehouse Market and Econofoods grocery.  In her free time, she enjoyed reading, gardening, lunches and shopping with her friends, playing cards, and other family activities.  She and Don wintered in Arizona for many years, and they were lifelong members of Holy Ghost Parish.  Shirley was a loving, kind and generous wife, mom, and friend, was well-loved by many, and will be missed by all.

Survivors include her children: Dirk (Tiffany) Hansen of Dubuque; Teresa Watson of Allen, Texas; Greg Hansen of Bloomington, Minnesota; and Paul Hansen of Dallas, Texas; and her siblings Carol Obrien, Betty Frommelt, Paul Breitbach, Jerry Breitbach, Jeanie Kruse, Larry Breitbach and Clare Gaston.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Don, her son Jeff Hansen, and her siblings, Anna Kemp, Peter Breitbach, Mary Pink, Joe Breitbach, Velma Brahm, Charlie Breitbach and Phillip Breitbach.

Shirley’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of Luther Manor Grand Meadows for the thoughtful, loving care they provided.  A special thank you to her many friends, former coworkers, and neighbors whose company she enjoyed over her many years with us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in memory of Shirley.

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

Dave L. Fuller

Dave L. “Dave” Fuller, 84, of Peosta, Iowa, formerly of Charlotte, Iowa, passed away at home on Thursday, March 16, 2023. Following Dave’s wishes a private burial will occur at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory of Dubuque are assisting with arrangements.

Dave was a longtime business owner, board member and commodore of Clinton Riverboat Days, avid golfer and always a smartass. For those who knew him it would make his wife Jan, and of course Dave, happy to know you are smiling and fondly remembering being part of the “Dave Fuller Experience.”

Dave was survived by his wife Janice Fuller, his children Cindy Fuller, Keith (Dee) Fuller, Bryan Fuller, Brenda Fuller and Shea (Mark) Herbst; grandchildren Jeff, Angie and Sheena Clark, David and Kevin Fuller, Quinn and Tate Herbst; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert & Ailene Fuller, a sister, an infant brother and his son David.

A special thank you to the staff of St. Croix Hospice for their wonderful care and kind support.

David A. Beckius

David A. Beckius, 87, of East Dubuque, IL, adoring husband, steadfast father and loving grandfather, passed away on March 12, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

Visitation will be from 10:00AM to 12:00PM on Saturday, March 18, 2023, at St. Raphael Cathedral. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00PM with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa, is assisting the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

David was born on October 17, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, as the son of Leonard Beckius & Rose Beckius (nee Link).  He served in the USNR from 1956 to 1959, primarily stationed on the USS Bushnell (AS15).  He married Elizabeth R. Schraad on October 14, 1961, at St. Francis Xavier Church, Dyersville, IA.  David worked several years at the Dubuque Packing Company and then at John Deere Dubuque Works for 39 years until his retirement.  While working at Deere, he earned his BA in Business from Loras College.

David was a DIY enthusiast and loved the outdoors: fishing, hunting, camping and biking. He spent the past 15 years doting on his beloved grandchild.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years Elizabeth, his son Michael of East Dubuque, IL, his daughter Melissa of Cedar Rapids, IA, his son Timothy of Pleasant Prairie, WI, his granddaughter Aidan, and his sister Eleanor Bateman of Tucson, AZ. He is preceded in death by his sisters Rita Montgomery, Dorothy Gager, and Jeanette Conlan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in David’s name may be directed to Disabled American Veterans, St. Joseph Indian School, or St. Labre Indian School.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and other staff of University of Iowa Hospital for his recent care; also, to Michael Conlan for his support of the Beckius family during David’s hospitalization.

Dennis M. O’Neill

Dennis M. O’Neill, 76, of Muscatine, died on March 2nd. Denny was born Jan 3, 1947, in Dubuque, the second of 13 children, to Jack and Dorothy (Daley) O’Neill. He joined the US Navy at age 16, returned to Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1967. He moved to Muscatine in 1970, attended St. Ambrose College and earned a degree in history. He worked at Miller Furniture and HON Industries in Muscatine, and with his wife Carol, owned and ran Stoney’s Bar & Grill in Atalissa. An avid golfer, he was a regular at the West Liberty Country Club. He was a crossword enthusiast, and a lifelong Hawkeyes and Cubs fan.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents, sister Peggy McCleary, daughter Deirdre Jean, former wife Nancy DiMaria (Frankenberg), and former brother-in-law Jeff Ternes. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 31 years, Carol Meyers (Oetting), her two children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; his son, Dennis Patrick, his wife Maggie, their girls, Remy Bear and Rose Hudson, of Woodstock, N.Y.; his siblings, Pat (Darlene), Mary (Bill) Triervieler, Kathy Ternes, John (Jan), DeDe (Bill) Lester, Jeannie Gonzalez (Peter Silvestri), Vince (Terry), Sheila O’Neill (Jeff Wyse), Theresa (Dave) Heim, Sue (Richard) Wynne, Ann (Sean) O’Malley; special family member Deeg Gathuri; and many nieces and nephews.

Denny will also be missed by his countless friends everywhere who affectionately referred to him as Stoney.

There will be celebration of life gatherings in Muscatine and in Dubuque this summer.

Joseph R. Burlage

Joseph R. Burlage, 80 of Worthington, Iowa passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at MercyOne in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 19, 2023 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville where a military service will be accorded at 7 p.m. by American Legion Post #137.  Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 20, 2023 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Joseph was born on March 8, 1943 in Manchester, Iowa, the son of Elmer and Dorothy (Urbain) Burlage. He married Helen Lynch on September 2, 1967 in Cascade, Iowa.

Joe grew up in Worthington, working on the farm and graduating from St. Paul Schools. He and Helen began farming down the road from where he grew up in 1967. While raising their three children, they enjoyed snowmobiling, bowling, golfing, playing cards and coaching little league teams in Worthington. He worked long hours on the farm, while being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. In his later years, he rarely missed a sporting event and shared many skills and knowledge with his children and eleven grandchildren. Joe enjoyed morning coffee and cards with friends and family. Joe will be missed by many and remembered for his optimism and positive demeanor.

Joe was a member of the American Legion Post #137, Dubuque County Cattlemen Association, and St. Paul’s Catholic Church. He was a faithful man and supporter of catholic education.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Helen, children: Brian (Lisa) Burlage, Ted (Tonya) Burlage both of Worthington, Paula (Jason) Adams of Dubuque, grandchildren: Haley, Devin, Isaac and Riley Burlage, Mason, Addisyn, Brock and Brynn Burlage, Evelyn, Eli and Ethan Adams, siblings: Julie Hosch of Peosta, Anna Jane Meyer, MI, Elizabeth Burlage of Chicago, IL, Lois (Keith) Rinderknecht, MN, Karen (Tim) Nefzger of Dyersville, Ed (Mary Lou) Burlage of Dyersville, and Tom (Lois) Burlage of Worthington, in-laws: Gerry Rea of Bernard, Mary Kay (Jim) McDonald of Marion, Richard (Joyce) Lynch, Joe (Jean) Lynch, both of Cascade, Lois Lynch of Bernard, and Elaine (Norm) Jacobson of Springville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Gerald and Harriet Lynch, in-laws: John Hosch, John Lynch, and Dave Rea.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Eugene Morton

Eugene “Butch” Morton, 80, of Dubuque, passed away on March 14, 2023.

In keeping with his wishes, a private family farewell and burial will be held. Inurnment will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Eugene was born on August 28, 1942 to James and Florence (Mai) Morton in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was united in marriage to Mona (Reittinger) Morton on April 14, 1962.

Eugene worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for over forty years.

Eugene enjoyed fishing, bowling, competitive dancing, and playing poker. He also had a wild streak and enjoyed motorcycle racing in his younger years. He rode roller coasters well into his 70’s.

Eugene was an avid football fan and loved cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Bears. In his later years he liked keeping up with the younger guys group and made several poker trips to Las Vegas and had a few winning years in Fantasy Football League.

He cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchild. It was rare that he ever missed a basketball game, track meet or dance performance.

Eugene was known for his famous homemade caramels. These became a hot commodity among many during the holiday season. Always strong willed and independent, his funny quips and humorous impressions could instantly get a room rolling in laughter.

Eugene is survived by his wife Mona; children, Sandy (Norm Duve) Morton of Mesa, AZ, Diana “Bee” Morton of St. Paul, MN, Terry Ann Morton of Dubuque, IA, and Kate (Josh) Knepper of Peosta, IA; Grandchildren, Trena Miller and Grey Knepper; and great-grandchild, Mateo Miller. He is also survived by his sister, Anna Close of Dubuque.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Joann Hittenmiller.

Eugene’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Eagle Pointe Place, and Hospice of Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers, a Eugene Morton Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Eugene J. Mulgrew

Eugene J. “Gary” Mulgrew, 83, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 8:45 p.m. Monday, March 13, 2023 at Ennoble Manor Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 20th at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Shullsburg, WI, with Fr. Peter Lee officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, and from 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday at the church.

Gary was born on February 16, 1940 in Dubuque, IA, the son of William E. “Bill” and Eleanor C. Mulgrew.  He was united in marriage to Ellen Ann Cherry – Meyer on August 13, 1987 in Jo Daviess County, IL, with Fr. James Lins officiating.

Gary formerly operated several night clubs and taverns in the Tri-State area. He loved fishing and traveling, and was a graduate of Galena High School, class of 1958.

Surviving is his wife Ann,  a step-son, Michael ( Ayla) Meyer of East Dubuque; three grandchildren, Zachary, Emma and Nolan; and a great grandson, Sebastian.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Eleanor Mulgrew.

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

Mary E. Richter

Mary Elizabeth Richter, 71, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

The Funeral Service for Mary will be 11:00 am Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Word of Life Church with Pastor Loren Hirschy officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of the service on Saturday at the church.

Mary was born April 15, 1951, in Dubuque, the daughter of Viola Kringle. Mary was united in marriage to Walter Kaufmann on October 28, 1972. He preceded her in death on November 28, 2011. She was later united in marriage to Eugene “Gene” Richter on October 23, 2016.

Mary worked various jobs, working at the Titanic Museum in Branson, Missouri, and Aladdin Dry Cleaners in Dubuque. She loved working with people and volunteering; she would volunteer at the church bookstore, and the food pantry. Mary was a faithful member of the Word of Life Church. She enjoyed attending Life Bible College, and hosting community group at her home. Above all, Mary treasured time spent with family, especially her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Eugene “Gene” Richter of Dubuque; children, Nicole (Jonathon Mahon) Stumpf, Chris Kaufmann, Michelle (Pete) Woodman, and Alexis (Jason) Webb all of Dubuque; 38 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; five step-children, Denise (Stacey) Bussie of Clinton, IA; Lori (Shawn) Petersen of Clinton; and, Nathan (Leah) Richter of Fulton, IL, Barb Edfors and Susan Petersen both of Clinton.

Besides her first husband, she was preceded in death by her mom, and her aunt, Frances Kringle.

Memorials may be made to the Word of Life Church bookstore fund.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, as well as Pastor Loren Hirschy and his wife, Joy, for their care and compassion.

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 Mary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Irvin M. Nauman

Irvin Martin Nauman, 93, of Altoona, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on March 13, 2023 surrounded by his family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, March 25, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Visitation at the church will be held from 9:00 am until the time of service at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at St. John the Baptist in Centralia.

Irv was born September 15, 1929 in Sherrill, IA, the son of Alfred and Anna (Behnke) Nauman. He grew up on the family farm in Centralia, IA. He attended Humke School, a one room schoolhouse. The oldest of nine children, Irv spent his younger years helping his father work the farm.

While attending his cousin’s wedding Irv met the love of his life, Mary McEachran. They were married August 6, 1960 at St. Paul Cathedral in St. Paul MN. They were blessed with 62 years of marriage.

Irv’s commitment to hard work followed him from the farm to making a livelihood as a carpenter. He contributed to many housing and commercial projects throughout the Dubuque area. He was a member of Carpenters Union 678 for over 50 years.

Irv found joy in keeping his yard and tending to his garden, especially his tomato plants. He volunteered with Boy Scout Troop #7 of St. Anthony’s and was often involved in helping Mary with one of her many classroom projects. Irv enjoyed time spent with card club and was always up for an impromptu game of cribbage. During retirement he picked up golf, made new friends walking the course, and celebrated a hole-in-one.

Grounded in faith Irv built a home with the knowledge of a carpenter, love of a husband and the hands of a father. The real fruits of his labor were borne in the lessons he passed on through the many projects he carried out. His son and sons-in-law not only learned the skills of the trade from him while building a deck or finishing a basement, but also picked up on the strengths of being a man. Irv’s quiet strength was extended to his grandchildren. He crafted bluebird houses and treasure boxes for them and always looked forward to family visits around the kitchen table. He will be deeply missed, his lessons forever in our hearts, and comfort is found in that he has been reunited with the love of his life.

Irv is survived by one son, Mark (Nelly) Nauman of Wake Forest, NC; three daughters, Elaine (Randall) Burke of Alexandria, VA, Maureen (Michael) Benson of Urbandale, IA, and Carolyn (Dennis) Riordan of Ankeny, IA; 13 grandchildren, Brittany, Isabelle, Mark, Ava, Matthew, Andrew (Alexis), Patrick (Laura), Brendan (Rachael), Matthew (Haleigh), Mitchel (Haley), Conor, Deaglan, and Fiona; two great-grandchildren, Liam and Aspen; brother, Donald (Helen) Nauman; sister, Darlene (Donald) Schmitt; in-laws, Peggy Nauman, Donna Nauman, Rosanne Nauman, and Joan Nauman, Michael McEachran; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and six brothers, Gerald (Phyllis) Nauman, Whitey (Darlene, Mary) Nauman, Vern Nauman, Dutch Nauman, Harlan Nauman, Ronald Nauman, and in-laws, Joe Hoerner, Jane Weiss, and Katherine Olson.

The family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff at Prairie Vista Village, Altoona and Suncrest Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, a Irvin M. Nauman memorial fund has been established.

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

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

Kathleen A. Bowman

Kathleen “Kate” A. Bowman, 56, of Bellevue, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at Genesis Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Monday, March 20, 2023 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet relatives and friends 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, March 19, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will also be 1 hour prior to services Monday, March 20, 2023 at the church.  Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

Kate was born January 21, 1967, the daughter of Harold and Sandra (Gard) Bowman.  She graduated from Bellevue Community High School in 1985.  Kate then graduated from Loras College in 1998.  She went on to earn her Masters Degree in Pastoral Counseling in 2016, becoming a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 2021.

Kate worked as a substance abuse counselor for several years, until she found her second home at Genesis Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, where she worked as a grief counselor.

Kate loved life and cherished every moment spent with family and friends. She was a very spiritual person and would share her wisdom and love on to others. Her greatest joy was being a mom and grandma. She enjoyed music, reading, getting together with family and friends, and spending time outdoors. Everyone’s life she touched became better, a bright light in our world. Her love, kindness, and compassion is what made her extraordinary. Kate was a beautiful soul a blessing to all those who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her beloved daughter, Erica (Drew) Koranda; her grandson, Zayn; her mother, Sandra Bowman; siblings, Jim (Kristy) Bowman and Deb (Bill) Sieverding; and numerous extended relatives; and many special friends.

Kate was preceded in death by her father, Harold Bowman; a sister and bother in-law, Christine (Marty) Victor; and a brother, William “Billy” Bowman.

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

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

Dennis R. Pickel

Dennis R. “Denny” Pickel, age 76, of Dubuque, IA, sadly completed his earthly journey on March 11, 2023.  To honor Denny’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, March 27, 2023, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street, with Father Dennis Quint officiating.  Family and friends of Denny’s may visit from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Denny’s family.

Denny was born on November 6, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Bernell and Marcella (Kelly) Pickel.  He learned from an early age that life is what you make it and he was determined to make it the best one he could.  Denny met the love of his life, Roxanne Ludowitz, and the couple were united in marriage and began their lives together as one.  They were blessed with two beautiful daughters to complete the family and their home was now ready for the future and all the memories and blessings that awaited them.  Denny proudly carried his strong work ethic into his career as a production welder at the John Deere Dubuque works for over 46 years before eventually moving into retirement.  Denny’s devotion to his work came in second only to his love for his family.  Spending time with the kids and grandkids was definitely where Denny found his greatest joy in life.  In his free-time, Denny was always on the search for the next big walleye to add to his collection.  He was a faithful member of the Dubuque Walleye Club and participated in many tournaments over the years.  He also made regular trips for over 43 years up to Spider Lake in Minnesota with family and friends.  The fishing was good, the air was fresh, and the time visiting and relaxing was always to be treasured as well.  Denny also spent about ten years stock car racing in his younger years and always enjoyed his time at the track with friends there also.  Denny was an honorable man who spoke clearly and said what he meant.  If he liked you, you were good to go in Denny’s world and his loyalty continually ran deep.  It’s hard to imagine facing the days ahead without our fearless leader at the helm.  The chaotic world outside was always kept at bay for those whom Denny knew and loved.  We will trust that the Lord has a plan in all things and will help to ease the pain and heal our hearts in time, but for now we will rely on His strength to navigate the new reality we must face.  Thank you, Denny, for being the exact man we all needed you to be and may the Lord grant you the peace you seek until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Denny include,

his loving wife,
Roxanne Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

his two adored daughters,
Brandy (Darryl) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA,
and Brittany Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

his four grandchildren,
Hunter (Brooke) Schmitt, North Liberty, IA,
Connor (Janae) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA,
Breken Norpel, Dubuque, IA,
and Adalyn Norpel, Dubuque, IA;

his great-granddaughter,
Emilou Schmitt;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Dianne (Lyle) Harris, Peosta, IA,
Kathy (Dick) Schuster, Roseville, MN,
Cheri (Jim) Wagner, Dubuque, IA,
Dan (Laura) Ludowitz, Dubuque, IA,
Peter Ludowitz, Dubuque, IA,
and Randy (Rose) Ludowitz, Dubuque, IA;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister-in-law, Sheri Ludowitz.

Denny’s family would like to express a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the Dubuque Police Department, EMS, along with all of our family and friends who have been so caring and supportive during this very difficult time.  Your kindness has surely brought a little peace into our hearts and minds and we are forever grateful for each and every one of you.

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

Gary Cording

Gary Cording, 74 years young, of Green Valley, AZ (formerly of Scales Mound, IL and Dubuque, IA) passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at home.  A celebration of life service will be held at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Schapville, IL over the summer.

Gary was born March 3, 1949 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Arthur and Myrna (Hesselbacher) Cording.  He married Gail Grebner on August 19, 1972.  Gary graduated from Scales Mound High School in 1967 and attended the University of Illinois for a year before returning to the family farm. He farmed on West Cording Road in Jo Daviess County until 1985. During that time, Gary was active in the Scales Mound Lions Club and AMPI organizations, and served on the Scales Mound School Board and the Shepherd of the Hills Church Council.

After farming, he drove a motorcoach for Tri-State Travel for almost 33 years before retiring on December 31, 2017.

Gary is survived by his wife, Gail, of Green Valley, AZ and daughter, Marcy (Chuck) Fritter, of Herndon, VA; siblings Sandy (Larry) Schmidt of Rochester, MN, and Larry (Sue) Cording of Galena, IL, along with sister-in-law Chris (Daryl) Stienstra of Dixon, IL; and many loved nieces and nephews, and their families.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Gary had a passion for traveling to new locations and sharing the knowledge he picked up through his years of driving. Gary traveled to all 50 states and most of the Canadian provinces. He and Gail enjoyed driving to Virginia, Florida, Colorado, and Arizona to visit family and friends, and frequently traveled to the Caribbean and Mexico before and during their retirement.

In lieu of plants and flowers, please consider a gift to the Arizona Oncology Foundation (https://www.arizonaoncologyfoundation.org/donate/#donate), Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (PO Box 98, Scales Mound, IL 61075), Bristol Hospice (5210 E Williams Circle, Suite 530, Tucson, AZ 85711), or to a charity of your choice.

The Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound, IL is in charge of local arrangements.

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

Sandra A. Bisenius

Sandra A. Bisenius, age 69, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on March 13, 2023, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sandra’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street, with Father Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sandra’s family.

Sandra was born on April 7, 1953, in Wisconsin, a daughter to Charles and Dorothy (Loeffelholz) Gile.  Sandra was raised in Cascade and attended Aquin High School.  She spent much of her working career in management with Casey’s General Store.  This involved quite a bit of traveling, but Sandra was always ready to get back home to her kitchen where she could utilize her baking and cooking skills for her loved ones to enjoy.  She was also a very gifted interior designer who always made sure that their home was in pristine condition for all to relax and find comfort in.  Sandra was united in marriage to her soul-mate, David Bisenius, Jr., on March 12, 2004, and the two have been blessed with many years and wonderful memories together.  In her free-time, Sandra would never pass up an opportunity to catch a Cubs game, or if a little shopping made it onto her list for the day, this too was considered to be time well spent.  She was a spirited person with a strong personality which eventually culminated in her ability to fight through multiple health issues later in life.  A fighter till the end, she faced every battle that life brought her way.  Sandra leaves behind many broken hearts today with her physical absence.  We pray that peace is hers now until we meet again, and that we may have peace here as well while we patiently wait.  Thank you, Sandra, for reminding us that some of the most valuable things in this life can sometimes be as simple as a good cup of coffee and may your legacy be found to continue on in our hearts and minds for years to come.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sandra include,

her loving husband,
David E. Bisenius, Jr., Dubuque, IA;

her three children,
Abby (Chris) Watters, Minneapolis, MN,
Aaron (Debra) Kurt, Monticello, IA,
and Josh Kurt, Cascade, IA;

her four grandchildren,
Kayla, Lauren, Emily, and Austin;

her two great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Kay (Doug) Hunt, Cascade, IA,
John (Helen) Gile, Dubuque, IA,
Patricia (Kevin) Frommelt, St. Michael, MN,
Dave Gile, Wichita, KS,
Pete (Ginny) Gile, Cascade, IA,
and Randy (Deb) Gile, Wyoming, IA;

her in-law’s,
Bea (Richard) Soens, Dubuque, IA,
and Dave Bisenius, Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her brothers and sisters-in-law,
Fran (Steve) DeJong, Sioux City, IA,
Joe Bisenius, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Sindi Bisenius, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Sandra was preceded in death by her father, Charles Gile; her son, Travis Kurt; her step-father, Ed Kremer; and her brother-in-law, Brian Bisenius

Sandra’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  They would also like to extend a very sincere and heartfelt thank you to Father Dennis Quint for his unwavering devotion and commitment to Sandra and her family during this most difficult time.

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