Obituaries Archive

Donald E. Hawley

Donald Eugene Hawley, 74, of Galena, Illinois was called to be with Our Father in Heaven on November 9, 2023. A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Don was a hairdresser for many years, running successful salons in California and Illinois. Throughout his life, he met challenges with courage, determination, and grace.  He is fondly remembered by his family and friends as a man of integrity, faith, kindness, generosity, and humor. He is sorely missed by his faithful dog Penelope, the best Morkie ever. And our world is a little brighter for his whimsical character pillows, so creatively crafted.  

Don is survived by his partner Bill Zwack of Galena; his sister Ida Jean Bremmer of Prescott Valley, Arizona and his brother Paul Hawley of Springfield, Missouri; his favorite aunts, Ida Kerr of Cordova, Illinois, and Myrtle Willis of Seattle, Washington; and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Mary P. Birch

Mary P. “Pat” Birch, age 83, of Dubuque, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus at 6:35 p.m., on Friday, November 10, 2023, at home surrounded by her loving family.  In keeping with Pat’s wishes there will not be a public service.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Pat’s family.

Pat was born on April 28, 1940, in San Diego, California, daughter of Truman and Mary (Joyce) Vinson.

Pat moved from California to Paton, Iowa when she was 6 years old, where she graduated from high school.  She married James L. Fox in Paton in 1961. They moved to Ames for 5 years and eventually ended up in Dubuque in 1968.  They began their family together, but sadly would later part ways.  Pat enjoyed going square dancing and clogging and that’s where she would meet Leonard Birch.  The couple fell in love and married 1987, enjoying 17 years together until Leonard passed away on November 27, 2004.  Pat then moved back to Paton, but returned to Dubuque to help her daughter Karen care for foster children.  Pat enjoyed the simple things in life such as reading a good book and tending to her yard, garden and flowers.  Spending time with her family was always Pat’s top priority.  She made the world around her a better place and she will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

her children,
David (Kathy) Fox, Tiffin, IA,
Stephen (Rhonda) Fox, Cave Creek, AZ
and Karen Fox, Dubuque, IA;

6 grandchildren,
Jaime (Kyle) Canamar, Allie Fox, Santana, Ella and Brenna Fox and Emily Griffith;

8 great-grandchildren,
Braiden, Caleb, Parker, Hunter, Bodhi, Fiona, Kamden and Winona;

and her siblings,
Mike (Linda) Batcheller, Escondido, CA,
Kathy Wernimont, Jefferson, IA,
Jaylene Jensen, Urbandale, IA
and Jay Batcheller, Paton, IA.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leonard Birch; her grandchildren, Lindsay and Jordan; and a nephew, Shane Batcheller.

Pat’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the University of Iowa, Dr. Sara Loetscher and all of the staff of Hospice of Dubuque for the outstanding care they provided for Pat.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Pat’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Mary Birch Family.

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

Vernon E. Puls

Vernon E. Puls, 82, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Family and friends may call from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, IL, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery immediately following the Mass.

Vernon was born on May 24, 1941 in Dubuque, the son of Victor and Catherine (Vaassen) Puls.  He was united in marriage to Joanie C. Klauer on April 23, 1960 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Vernon was a graduate of Elizabeth, IL high school, the class of 1959. He was a production supervisor for the Celotex Corporation in Dubuque and later at Merrero, LA until his retirement. Vernon was an avid fisherman, hunter, baseball player and enjoyed a good game of euchre and poker.

Surviving is his wife, Joanie; five daughters, Cindy (Kris) Kessler of Saratoga, WY, Debbie Swallow and Pam Puls both of Madison, WI, Marlana Hancock of Asheboro, NC, and Amanda (Brian) Walch of Anchorage, AK; 9-grandchildren, Megan, Morgan, Nicholas, Kiera, Katie, Andrew, Connor, Jenna, and Carli; and two sisters-in-law, Charlene Puls and Nita Puls.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Catherine; siblings, Carl, Jerry, Alan, Joe, Alice, Eleanor, Vincent and Helena.

A Vernon E. Puls memorial fund has been established.

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

Connie K. Purtilo

Connie K. (Milburn) Purtilo, 79, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.  Funeral Services will be 3:00 pm, Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the First Presbyterian Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, prior to services at the church. Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Connie was born February 16, 1944 in Perry, Iowa, the daughter of Wm. Alferd and Alene E. (Struble) Milburn. She married Gary Purtilo on February 14, 1965 in Honolulu, Hawaii during his time in service, he passed on August 15, 2021. Connie worked as an eye technician for Vision Health Center and  Dr. Sloan in Bellevue for over 20 years before retiring.  Connie enjoyed the outdoors, working in the yard, and baking cookies.  Connie and Gary enjoyed retirement together, traveling on many cruises, countries and going to every State.  Connie will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her sons, Rod (Sherry Speciale) Purtilo and Terry Purtilo; siblings, Wilma York, Velma (Dale Hutzelt) Renfrow, Clarence (Colleen) Milburn, and Keith (Sharon) Milburn,; in-laws, Denny (Kay) Purtilo and Judy (Doug) McCart; also surviving are many extended relatives, and nieces and nephews.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gary; and a brothers in-law, Don York and John Renfrow; and a sister in-law, Barb Purtilo.

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

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

Linda Farkas

Linda (Carr) Farkas, of Dubuque, formerly of Las Vegas, NV, died Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 11:00 am Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Linda will be 11:00 am Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Brother Stephen Markham officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery in Placid, IA at a later date.

Linda was born July 18, 1939, to John L. and Helen (Tucker) Carr. She grew up in the Placid, Cascade area. In 1968, Linda moved west to California and then Nevada where she met her future husband, Elmer Farkas. She spent her work life in banking, beginning with DB&T in Dubuque. After moving to California, she joined the United California Bank and retired from Nevada State Bank as a branch manager.

Survivors include one sister, Gwen Nilles; one brother, Kevin (Joyce) Carr; 11 beloved nieces and nephews, Bret (Suzanne) Nilles, Dawn (Roberto) Dominguez, DeAnn Nilles, Danette (Randy) Nilles-Putchio, Brian Nilles, Brad  Nilles, Craig Carr, Shawn (Linda) Carr, Courtney (Derek) LeVasseur, Michael Carr, and Patrick (Charlotte) Carr; and five step-children, Chuck (Lezlie), Sharon (Bing), Darlene, Judy, and Larry.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by three infant siblings, Roger, Karen, and Perry, a brother, Richard Carr, sister-in-law, Sandy Carr Rollinger, brother-in-law Duane Nilles, and two step-children, Elmer Jr. and Ron.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center.

Thanks to Kristin from Hospice of Dubuque and the Stonehill staff for all of their compassionate care given to Linda and her family.

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

Glenda A. Miller

Glenda A. Miller, 83, of Scales Mound, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Midwest Medical Center in Galena. To honor Glenda, visitation will be Tuesday, November 14 from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m. at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound with funeral services to follow at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Libby Rutherford officiating. Burial will be in the Council Hill Cemetery.

Glenda was born on November 12, 1939, daughter of Glen and Alice (Bell) Wallace. She was proud to be a lifelong resident and historian of Council Hill Township. Glenda graduated from Scales Mound High School, class of 1957.

Glenda was united in marriage to Donald “Donnie” Miller at the Council Hill Methodist Church on July 18, 1964. He preceded her in death on December 15, 1997.

She was a talented crocheter and generously donated hundreds of Afghans/crafts to any cause, especially one involving animals. Her love for animals was huge.  Her four-legged children, Allison, Brenda, and Lindsey fulfilled her life.

She is survived by cousins and extended family, Stewart, Julie & Lee VanRaalte.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Donnie, and a brother Dean Wallace.

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

Rosemary McNett

Rosemary McNett, 95, passed away surrounded by her loving family, November 11, 2023 at St. Dominic Villa, Sinsinawa, Wisconsin. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 18, 2023 at St. Rose of Lima Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4-7:00 p.m. Friday, November 17 at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City where there will be a parish scripture wake service at 3:45 p.m. A second visitation will be held Saturday from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service.

Rosemary was born on October 4, 1928 in Eldora, Iowa, the daughter of Elmer and Mary (O’Brien) Landon. She graduated from Platteville High School in 1946. Rosemary married her high school sweetheart Marshall McNett on May 29, 1947 at St. Mary’s Parsonage in Platteville, Wisconsin. They were married for over 63 years.

She dedicated her life to raising their six children on the family farm. Rosemary’s happiest moments were those spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She reveled in the role of a doting grandmother, sharing her love through card games and family get-togethers. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, traveling and spending winters in Florida.

Rosemary’s love extended deeply to her faith, a source of strength and inspiration throughout her life. She was a member of the St. Rose of Lima Parish, serving on the Parish Council and the Council of Catholic Women. She was also involved in the Cuba City High School Parents’ Music Club.

Rosemary is survived by four daughters, Jane (Bob Emmerich) McNett, Madison, WI, LouAnn Nystrom, Crystal Lake, IL, Mary Jo (Barry) Graham, Eagan, MN, and Wendy (Mark) Newburg, Madison, WI; two sons, Mike (JoAnn) McNett, Cuba City, and Marc McNett, Edgerton, WI; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marshall McNett, on February 7, 2011; and her sister, Jeanne (Hank) Carlson.

In lieu of flowers a Rosemary McNett Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI 53807.

The family wishes to thank the staffs of Hospice of Dubuque, Cristy Willis and Medical Associates, and St. Dominic Villa.

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

Donna J. Witt

Donna Jean Witt, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Tuesday November 7, 2023 at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa following a brief illness. A graveside service will be held on November 25, 2023, at 11AM at Reeseville Cemetery in Miles Iowa.

Donna was born May 25, 1937 to Carl and Selma (Behning) Witt in Clinton, Iowa.

Donna was a hard worker who enjoyed growing up on the family farm. When she moved to Maquoketa, she worked at Jackson County Public Hospital, working in the kitchen and housekeeping. She retired after 26 years.

She enjoyed dancing and was an avid card player who enjoyed the many card clubs she belonged to. She was also a diehard Cubs fan. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church of Maquoketa, Spragueville Legion Auxiliary, and the Eagles Auxiliary. She was a friend to many whether you were a coworker or cards player, she knew everyone! But being an Aunt was her most enjoyable role.

She will be dearly missed by Nieces and a Nephew, Karen (Harlan) Lynn of Columbia, MO, Jodene (Bob) Berggren of Maquoketa, IA, Dorene McDonnell of Clinton, IA, Tom (Gail) Witt of Goose Lake, IA, Deb (Tim) Walter of Dixon, IL, and Joy (Mike) Portz of Miles, IA; 13 Great Nieces and Nephews, 13 Great-Great Nieces and Nephews and one Great-Great-Great Niece.  She is also survived by a special friend, Jim Arensdorf of Maquoketa, IA.  She was proceeded in death by her parents, sisters Virginia (Irvin) Strating, and Martha Witt, brothers Johnnie (Evelyn) Witt, Erwin (Jane) Witt and her twin brother Donald, nephews Kevin and Robert Witt, and a great nephew David Walter.

The family would like to thank the Jackson County regional Health Center, Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center and Hospice of Jackson County for the wonderful care given to Aunt Donna.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Matthew P. Davis Sr.

Matthew P. Davis Sr, 65, died Wednesday, November 8, 2023.  A private family memorial service will be held at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.

Matthew was born May 29, 1958 in Dubuque, son of Wesley and Ruth (Mills) Davis.

On June 18, 1977 he married Mary Dietz at Resurrection Catholic Church.

He worked as a mechanic and manager for 26 years for Miracle-Sinclair, then worked for 21 years at Bodine Electric.

He loved being outdoors hunting or doing yard work.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; three children, Matthew Davis Jr., Alicia (Jeremy) Kapp, and Zachary (Lindsay) Davis; six grandchildren, Blair, Maryellen, Kiefer, Bryan, Kiernin, and Hudson.

He is also survived by his siblings, Gene Davis, of Brookfield, WI, Robert (Becky Pfau) Davis, of Malibu, CA, Dennis Davis of Yuba City, CA, Ruth Greenwood, of Farley, Wayne (Lee) Davis, of Lompoc, CA, Daryl Davis, of Ewing, VA, Linda (Peter) So, of Pittsburg, CA,  John Davis, of Ewing, CA, Debra Davis, of Dubuque, Jayne Davis, of Yuba City, CA, Mary (Gary) Kreutz, of North Ridge, CA, and Todd (Chris) Davis, of North Hills, CA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Wesley J. Davis Jr. and Terry Davis; and his brother in law, Carl Greenwood.

Geraldine R. Galliart

Geraldine R. “Jerrie” Galliart, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 2:03 p.m., on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Jerrie’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Jerrie was born on July 5, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Le Roy and Nellie (Murphy) Kaiser.

Jerrie was a life long resident of Dubuque.  She married Carl Galliart at St. Mary’s Rectory on August 12, 1950, and they had 3 children together.  Sadly, Carl passed away on March 3, 1986.  She was a devoted wife and mom, but also worked in the Human Resources Department at Mercy Hospital for 35 years until she retired.  Jerrie was a kind and loving woman who raised exotic birds from chicks to sell to others to enjoy.  She was a member of the Bird Association, Rolling Meadows Bird Club and the Mid American Bird Club in Des Moines.  Her current bird, Rosie, brought great joy to everyone at Stonehill.  In her free time, Jerrie liked to engage in a little retail therapy and enjoyed to traveling to Las Vegas to try her luck at the Casinos.  Above all Jerrie loved her family.  She always took advantage of any time that she could spend with the kids and grandkids.  Jerrie was tenacious and strong willed, always battling through any health challenge that life threw her way.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Jerrie’s memory include

her children,
Carol (Roger) Ohmert, Dubuque, IA
and Patrick (Jo Ann) Galliart, Mason City, IA;

8 grandchildren,
Justin (Emily) Kaufman, Diane Kaufman, Carla (Tony Gotto) Kaufman, John (Sarah Timmerman) Kaufman, Corey Ohmert, Carl Galliart, Sarah (Patrick) Smith and Michael Galliart;

6 great-grandchildren,
Kyle Kaufman, Natalie (Quincy Lovelady) Kaufman, Ashlie Kaufman, Jack Kaufman, Rodney Smith and Sterling Smith;

and a great great-granddaughter,
Aliya Lovelady.

Jerrie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Carl Galliart; and a daughter, Diane Galliart.

Jerrie’s family would like to thank all of the staff at Stonehill Health Center for the wonderful care they have provided for Jerrie these past years.  Also a special thanks to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care these past weeks.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Jerrie’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Geraldine Galliart Family.

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

Patricia A. Abresch

Patricia A. Abresch, 72, of Dubuque died Monday November 6, 2023 at MercyOne Dubuque.

Visitation will take place from 4:00 to 7:00pm Thursday November 9, 2023, and 9:00 to 10:30am November 10, 2023 with a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with Deacon John Stierman officiating. All will take place at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque IA. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Patricia was born December 5, 1950 in Dubuque to Clarence and Lorraine (Geordt) Davis Sr. She married Daniel Abresch Sr. in August 1996.

She worked for Kmart Department Store in Dubuque from 1975 to 2009.

Patricia enjoyed bowling in league and participated in many tournaments. She loved flowers, butterflies, and decorating for Holidays.

She is survived by her husband Daniel Abresch Sr; daughters Tammy Hartlep and Tara (Chad) Stratton; step-children Danette Abresch, Deborah Stockton, Daniel (Jessica) Abresch, and David (Kristy) Abresch; grandchildren Ashley, Haley (Armando), Zach (Lexi), and Chase; 10 step-grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers Clarence Jr. (Nancy), Donald, Dale (Cindy); sisters-in-law Rose Abresch, Ruth Abresch, and Kay Abresch; and her puppy dog Baby Bea.

She is preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Lorraine Davis; siblings-in-law Leroy (Edna) Abresch, David Abresch, James Abresch, Michael Abresch, Thomas Abresch, Marianne Abresch, Clara (Eldon) Klein, and Judy (Fred) Cady.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Dr. Kahn, Dr. Kelley, Dr. Simsir, and their nurses for the exceptional care and compassion given to Patricia.

Carol Becker

Carol Becker, 88, of Dubuque, passed away November 7, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45 a.m., Saturday, November 11, 2023 at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA 52002. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m..  Private burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Carol was born on October 12, 1935 to Vernon and Dolores (Specht) Spates in Dubuque, Iowa.  She married Marvin O. Becker on October 6, 1956 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

She was a long-time member of Resurrection Parish and was deeply devoted to her faith.  She valued her time with family and friends, whether playing golf, playing cards, or enjoying a meal together. She battled Parkinson’s disease for 28 years and while it took a toll on her body, she never complained or gave up.  She was a true fighter until the end.

Carol is survived by her children, Diane Aldrich, of Henderson, NV, Linda (Randy) Herman, of Greensboro, GA, Karen (Greg) Kay, of Prior Lake, MN, David (Amy) Becker of Dubuque, IA;  her eleven grandchildren, Natalie (Bill) Kerns, Tiffany Aldrich, Justin (Allie) Herman, Katie (Neil) Orvis, Michael Herman, Brittany (Zach) Robertson, Derek Kay, Kristin Kay, Jonathan Becker, Matthew Becker, and Charlie Becker; her two great grandchildren, Alexander Herman and Madison Orvis; and her siblings, Kathryn Langkamp and Michael (Linda) Spates.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Becker, her infant son, Joseph Becker, her parents, her brother, Thomas Spates and his wife Marilyn Spates, and her brother-in-law, Franklin Langkamp.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bethany Home for their seven years of caring for her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Bethany Home or the Church of The Resurrection.

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

Jeanette Giron

Jeanette, 103, passed away peacefully at Sholom Home East in St. Paul, MN on November 7, 2023 following a brief illness.  She was born in Leadmine, WI on August 30, 1920.  She is preceded in death by her husband Peter, parents Jennie and Albert Driscoll, brother LaMoine Driscoll, cousin Loren Farrey, and granddaughter Maria. 

Jeanette is survived by her daughters Mary Biasi (Karl) of Lansing, MI, Ruth Girón (Richard Ruemmele) of Prescott, WI, grandchildren Lisa Beals (Rod), Andrea Coombs (Joe), and John Biasi all of the Lansing area.  Two great grandchildren Erica Baehre (Brandon), Connor Coombs and three great great grandsons Liam, Jackson, and Isaac, a special nephew John Driscoll of Portland, OR, and cousin Loren’s daughter Ruth Murphy of Minneapolis, MN.  She is also survived by grand cats Drs. Marvin Johnson and Larry Larson, grand dog Buddy, and great grand dogs Luna, Margot, and Milo.

Jeanette graduated from high school in Benton, WI in 1938 and went on to receive her bachelor’s degree from the University of Dubuque in 1942.  While in college, she met the love of her life Peter Giron; following his service in WWII and his college graduation, they married in 1946.  Jeanette began her career as a business education teacher at Hazel Green High School, Hazel Green, WI, and after moving to St. Paul worked for the St. Paul Schools and later the Grand Lodge of Minnesota. 

Jeanette had many interests and hobbies including card making, knitting, crocheting and playing the piano.  She watched all the Twins games if they weren’t in the afternoon because that was time wasted and Wild hockey especially because her daughter had season tickets.  Jeanette loved connecting with family and friends through email and Facebook and sometimes had 50 Words with Friends games going at once.  She was an avid card player, especially 500 where you didn’t want to play against her. 

Special thank you to Dr. Munir Abid and the care teams at Sholom Home in the Cleveland/Hamline and Highland units for their loving care of Jeanette. 

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, November 13, 2023 at the Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th Street South, Cottage Grove, MN with visitation 1 hour prior to the service.  Burial will be in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.  Memorials preferred. Arrangements by Kok Funeral Home www.kokfuneral.com 651-459-2483

Gerald Schmitt

Gerald “Jerry” Schmitt, 84, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque with family and friends by his side.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:30 am Monday, November 13, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jerry will be 11:00 am Monday, November 13, 2023, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Gerald was born April 25, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Carl G. and Magdaline (Tigges) Schmitt. On September 11, 1965, he married Joyce Stecher at SS. Peter & Paul Church, in Sherrill, Iowa and they had a son, Anthony, and daughter, Kathryn.

He was a mechanic at many gas stations in Dubuque and the Avalon in Rickardsville. He then became a semi driver for the last 18 years before retirement. He drove for CRST, Pape’s  Key City Transport, and Northan, driving from coast to coast.

He enjoyed riding motorcycles, attending car shows, and restoring his antique cars, a 1939 Ford Coupe, a 1949 Packard, and a 1955 Ford Sunliner. He enjoyed trips around the U.S. with his family. He enjoyed hearing of the world travels of his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Joyce; his son, Tony (Janann (Tscharner)) Schmitt of Durango, IA; his daughter, Kat (Greg) Klauer of Davenport, IA; his grandchildren, Dawn (Tony) Herman of Hazelton, IA, Emerald Klauer of Glendale, CA, Sienna Klauer of Mesa, AZ, and C.J. Klauer, of Davenport; his great-granddaughter, Rose; his sister, Pearl (Noel) Stecher of Dubuque; his sisters-in-law, Loretta Behnke and Jeanne Stecher, both of Dubuque; brother-in-law, Joseph (Carol) Stecher of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, Aeigidius and Louise Tigges and Ben and Katherine Schmitt, brothers-in-law Victor (LouAnn) Stecher, Loras (Sue) Stecher and Alfred Behnke, sisters-in-law Lorraine (Clem) Aird, Mary (Alfred) Hirsch, and Eileen (Lawrence) Fisher.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Resurrection School, Dubuque Regional Humane Society, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family wishes to thank his friends and helpers at Stonehill for their friendship and care in his last years.

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

Betty J. Sieverding

Betty J. (Miller Green) Sieverding, 89, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family.  Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Iowa.  Visitation will be 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm, Monday, November 13, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00am – 10:00 am on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 prior to Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Graveside Committal will be at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 in Calvary Cemetery in Grand Mound, Iowa. 

Betty was born December 29, 1933 in Calamus, Iowa, the daughter of Herbert and Esther (Pingel) Miller.  She married Thomas F. Green on November 24, 1956, he passed on January 6, 2000.  She later married Cletus “Ham” F. Sieverding on June 7, 2003. 

Betty was a strong, faith-filled woman who had the most gentle, sweet spirit. She was a tremendous influence and wonderful role model for her family and others exhibiting kindness and grace beyond measure.  Betty established a 47-year career as a banking professional, her last 20 years spent at First Central State Bank, DeWitt retiring in December 1998.  During her career, she served as a state chairman for the National Association of Bank Women.  Her dedication and integrity were admired by her colleagues and customers.  She was a 72-year Legion Auxiliary member and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Betty’s family was her treasure and her heart’s delight.  She adored her grandchildren and greats, and they adored her.  Betty loved well and was well loved by all who knew her.  She cherished time spent with her family at their River home in Bellevue, and also enjoyed musical events, grandchildren activities, and cheering on the Hawkeyes.

Survivors include her husband, Cletus “Ham” Sieverding; daughters, Kim (Dave) Jacobi and Kathy (Chet) Claussen; step-children, Greg (Deb) Sieverding, Jeanne (Larry) Cotter, and Gary “Bear” (Julie) Sieverding; grandchildren, Justin (Jessie) Jacobi, Kara (Terry) Nadermann, Megan (Chris) Litscher, Tyler (Kayla) Claussen, Ashley (Colby) Kieffer, and Cole Claussen; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great great-grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; and 20 step great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters in-law, Joanne Connell, Lois Canaday, Jerry (Mary Anne) Green, Theresa (Kivian) Eschbach Donna Sieverding, Virtus Clasen, Alice Kilburg, Darla Sieverding, Darlene Sieverding, Glen (Shirley) Sieverding, Dan “Pete” (Mary) Sieverding, Dave (Norma) Sieverding, and Mark “Weed” (Sherri) Sieverding; also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Thomas F. Green; a brother, Allen Miller; and several brothers and sisters in-laws and extended family members

The family would like to thank Hospice of Jackson County and her caregiver, Wendy for your loving care of Betty during this time.

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

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