Obituaries Archive

Marian C. Mallder

Marian Clare (Radloff) Mallder, 82, passed away on January 31, 2024 in Dubuque  Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday, February 12, 2024 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home in Dubuque, Iowa and from 9:30 to 10:45a.m., Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 685 Fremont Ave, Dubuque. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 11:00a.m. Click here to view the Funeral Service for Marian Mallder. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Marian was born on July 23, 1941 in Dubuque, the daughter of Marloe (Ede) Radloff and Harry Augusta Fredrick Radloff both of Dubuque. Marian was raised in Dubuque and attended the University of Dubuque majoring in music.

Marian Held many jobs throughout her life. Her first job was working at the Comet drive-in as a cook where she met her husband Robert Donald “Peanuts” Mallder. They married on October 29, 1960. They raised 8 wonderful Children.

Marian joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in May 1967 and has been an active member serving up until her time of her passing. Marian has a strong testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and his Atonement. She has served as the organist and a Family History Consultant for over 50 Years.

Marian was a people person sharing her knowledge of Dubuque History through city bus tours, progressive dinners and a tour guide at the Ham House Museum. She served two terms as president of the Dubuque County Genealogical Society and was a member for over 30 years.

These left to cherish her memory are her children: Robert S. Mallder of Oakland, CA, Linda (Tom) Weitz of Dubuque, Iowa, Suzanne (Luke) Droessler of Potosi, WI, Dianne (Marc) Onken of Dubuque, IA, Shirley (Robert) Tomlinson of North Liberty, IA, Jason Mallder of Dubuque, IA, JoAnne (Steve) Lorda of Tracy, CA, and John-David Mallder of Lehi, UT. Also 5 grandchildren, Luke Jr. Droessler (Kaley Bockhop) of Platteville, WI, Katie (Tony) Vander Velden of Platteville, WI. Austin, Mackenzie and Sadie Lorda of Tracy, CA and 1 Great Grandson Logan Vander Velden of Platteville, WI; and her cat Lily.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Donald “Peanuts” Mallder on March 29, 1994, her parents Marloe and Harry Radloff and her Grandmother Louise A. Ede.

In lieu of flowers, a Marian Mallder Memorial Fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank the Tri-State Dialysis Center, Palliative Care, and the kind Doctors, Nurses and Caregivers.

Marian had a wonderful Life.

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

Lola E. Berner

Lola E. Berner, 90, of Wheatland Manor, and formerly of Maquoketa and Lost Nation, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, February 9, 2024.

Lola Eileen Berner was born on August 14, 1933, in Clinton County, Iowa, to Clarence and Hulda (Timm) Adrian.  Her life was one of dedication and love, exemplified by her marriage to Clifford F. Berner on February 23, 1952, in Charlotte, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with the joys and challenges of rural living. As a farm wife, Lola worked tirelessly alongside her husband on their family farm in rural Lost Nation. Her work ethic was further demonstrated through her years of employment at Pacific Coast Feather Company in Maquoketa, where she was known for her reliability and warmth.

Lola’s commitment to her community was evident in her involvement with Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. She also served with heart and pride as a member of the Menzo Widle American Legion Post #381 Ladies Auxiliary.

Those who knew Lola will fondly remember her passion for life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, her eyes lighting up with each play. Gardening and canning were not just hobbies but a testament to her nurturing spirit, providing for her family and friends. Lola’s love for cooking was legendary, and her card-playing skills were a source of joy and friendly competition.

But above all, Lola’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her children, Linda (Mike) Buley of Georgetown, TX, Barb Scott of Elburn, IL, Gary (Becky) Berner of Lost Nation, IA, and Wayne (Melissa) Berner of Canal Winchester, OH. Her sister, Sharon (Bob) Sullivan of Charlotte, IA, will also hold dear the memories they shared. Lola was a beacon of light and love for her grandchildren, Cliff (Linda), Chad (Aalia), Amy, Mark (Keira), Jennifer, Courtney (Gene), Luke (Kayla), Megan, Cassidy, Matthew, Evan, Corey, and Jason, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, with the joy of another on the way.

Lola’s journey was marked by the love she shared and the resilience with which she faced life’s adversities. She was preceded in death by her adoring parents, her beloved husband Clifford in 2012, her dear son Allen in 1976, her son-in-law Allan Scott, and her precious granddaughters Laura and Judy.

A celebration of Lola’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, February 16, 2024, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at the Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lola E. Berner memorial fund has been established.

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

Melvin Dittmar

Melvin Dittmar, 90, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Friday, February 16, 2024, at Schapville Zion Presbyterian Church, Schapville, IL where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM, Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. The burial will be in Scales Mound Township Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

He was born November 12, 1933, in rural Scales Mound, the son of Ira Raymond and Alta Elsa (Wasmund) Dittmar. Melvin graduated from Scales Mound High School with the class of 1951. He was drafted into the United States Navy on March 14, 1956, and served until his honorable discharge on November 8, 1957. Melvin married Patricia Koehler on May 16, 1959, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Scales Mound, and she preceded him in death on November 6, 2022. Melvin farmed for fifty-five-plus years for Stanley (Spud) and Marian Davis. In his early years, he helped his dad at his Case Implement dealership and continued in his dad’s footsteps as a Golden Harvest Seed Corn Dealer. He was an avid Scales Mound sports fan, attending games his entire life. He was a collector of many things including antiques, coins, and collectibles.

He is survived by two daughters, Dinah (Scott) Bautsch and Dixie (Steve) Birkbeck, and seven grandchildren, Emily (Matt) Tyler, Kristina (Zach) McCullough, Elizabeth (Matt) Greene, Brandon (Tracy) Birkbeck, Kirstin (Jordan) Stanbridge, Corbin (Emily) Birkbeck, and Gavin (Haley) Birkbeck, fourteen great-grandchildren, Poppy, Jameson, Emmalyn, Anderson, Timothy, Ellie, Owen, Harper, Gavin, Scarlett, Allie, Zoey, Quinten, Dominic, and one on the way, three brothers-in-law, Michael and Vincent (Michelle) Koehler and Harold Gallagher and one sister-in-law Leslie Koehler.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two sisters, Ilene Gallagher, and Jeanette Wilhelmi, one brother Eldon, four sisters-in-law, Shirley Renne, Nancy Weida, Darlene Koehler, and Becky Koehler, three brothers-in-law, Donald Renne, Burt Wilhelmi, and David Weida, his father and mother-in-law, Clement and Nellie Koehler.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Crist at Medical Associates, Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and Assisted Living staff, and Hospice of Dubuque. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

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

Alverda M. Beck

Alverda Marie Beck, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa. Born on April 20, 1934, in the pastoral surroundings of Jackson County, IA, Alverda’s life was defined by her enduring strength, compassion, and dedication to her loved ones and her faith.

Raised on the family farm, she was the daughter of Albert and Elda (Felderman) Wiegert Sr. Alverda’s formative years were spent in a one-room schoolhouse, nurturing a love for learning that remained with her throughout her life. She graduated from Andrew High School in 1952, carrying with her the values of hard work and perseverance. Alverda married the love of her life, John F. Beck, on September 15, 1962, in St. Donatus, Iowa, and together they welcomed three children into the world: David, Sheila, and Duane.

Before her marriage, Alverda was employed at the Fishing Tackle Company in Maquoketa, served patrons at the Bon Ton Restaurant as a waitress, and contributed her skills to the Ensign Coil Company in Bellevue. Once married, she joined her husband in farming the land in rural Preston, a vocation she embraced with tenacity and pride. After the untimely passing of her husband John in 1978, Alverda took the reins of the family farm, managing it with the same fortitude and attention to detail that she applied to every aspect of her life.

Alverda was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, where she once taught Sunday School, before transferring her membership to First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Her dedication to her faith was matched by her involvement with the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa, where she found fellowship and community.

A woman of many talents, Alverda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her gardens were a testament to her patient toil and her love for nature, while her sewing projects reflected her meticulous craftsmanship.  She especially enjoyed cooking and playing games with her grandchildren.

Alverda’s legacy is carried on by her loving family, who continue to honor her memory: children Sheila (Bill) Norris of Huxley, IA, and Duane Beck of Preston, IA; daughter-in-law Jill Beck of MO; her adored grandchildren Josh Norris, Jessica Norris, Jacob (Christine) Beck, and Christy (Wesley) Dickinson; and her brothers Albert Jr. Wiegert of Maquoketa, IA, Eldon Wiegert of Loveland, CO, and Harold Wiegert of Dubuque, IA. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Rita Wiegert of Bellevue, IA, along with several nieces and nephews who will miss her presence dearly.

Alverda was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, her son Dr. David Beck, and her brothers Laverne Wiegert and Raymond Wiegert. She was also predeceased by sisters-in-law Mary, Judy, and Sandy Wiegert, and her niece Brenda Beck, and nephew Roland Wiegert.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, February 15, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again on Thursday after 10:30 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.

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

Leroy C. Eye Sr.

Leroy C. Eye Sr., 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at home.

Public Graveside Services and Burial celebrating his life will be held at 12 P.M., Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at South Mineral Cemetery, rural Onslow, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the graveside service from 9:30 to 11:30 A.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

Leroy Cecil Eye Sr. was born on December 3, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Cecil Floyd and Josephine (Ankney) Eye.  He was educated in Maquoketa schools and served his country in the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge.  He married Judith Ann Shady and they later divorced.

Leroy worked for Central Steel in Clinton for many years, and later for Dyangear as a pump tester, and lastly, he retired from WADY Industries in Maquoketa where he worked as a saw operator.

Leroy enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre, deer hunting, having coffee with his brother every morning, and strumming his guitar.

Those left to honor his memory include a son, Leroy C. Eye Jr. of Maquoketa, IA; 1 grandson; brothers, Delbert Eye of Maquoketa, IA, and Larry Eye of Maquoketa, IA; and sisters, Margie (Dale) Michel of TX, Jane (Bill) Nylin of Delmar, IA, Kathy of Dubuque, IA, and Betty Schulz of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Richard Eye, and sisters Ruth Clark, Martha Bowling, Ruby Jewell, and Rosemary Glazener.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Leroy C. Eye Sr. memorial fund has been established.

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

Dale A. Heinze

Dale Alan Heinze, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on February 6^th, 2024.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday February 15^th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home with Deacon Jim Koetz officiating.

Dale was born on January 5^th, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Rose M. Maas and Robert J. Heinze. He graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 2001. Dale worked at Sid’s Beverage on Dodge, WARECO on Rhomberg, Menards in Dubuque, and Happy Joe’s on University. And in his later years helped at his cousin Frank’s autobody shop.

He loved attending stock car races in Farley, Dubuque, and Darlington. He enjoyed cheering Chase Elliot on when watching NASCAR. His favorite trips were the ones he took down to Florida to watch the Daytona 500. He was also a fan of the Pittsburg Steelers and the Chicago Cubs.

Dale loved everyone. He made no hesitation in catching up with whoever he ran into. He kept in touch with his many cousins and friends, and he especially appreciated his good friend Buzz.

Dale is survived by his parents Rose Maas and Robert (Penni Lou (Ehlert) Heinze, siblings Bob Heinze, Lorrie Wortley, Jeff Heinze, Lisa (Randy) Kemp, and Jolene (Jeff) Nasman, 21 nieces and nephews, and 26 great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother Dennis Heinze.

Robert R. Wiederholt

Robert Rudolph Wiederholt, 93, of Dubuque, died Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 1:00 pm Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 5:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Robert will be 10:30 am Monday, February 12, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Robert was born July 9, 1930, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Francis and Margaret (Ludwig) Wiederholt. On June 30, 1956, he married Donna C. Hohnecker at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Robert graduated from Loras Academy. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran, serving in Korea from January 30, 1952 until January 29, 1954. After his honorable discharge from the service he worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 31 years.

Robert was a lifelong member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir. Robert was a member of the American Legion Post #6 for over 60 years and the U.A.W. Retirees. He was also a train enthusiast and loved to travel.

Survivors include his wife, Donna of Dubuque; three children, Rosalyn Langkamp of East Dubuque, IL; Alan (Dr. Karen) Wiederholt of Honolulu, HI; and Peter (Kelly) Wiederholt of O’Fallon, IL; eight grandchildren, Andrew (Beth) Simon, Amanda Wlochal, Amber (Nick) Healey, Brett (Stephanie) Langkamp, Matthew (Anne) Wiederholt, Jessica Wiederholt, Nathan (Anne) Wiederholt, James Wiederholt-Yamaguchi; 10 great-grandchildren with one due in May; and one brother, Gerald (Susan) Wiederholt of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two daughters, Theresa Simon and Dr. Roberta Wiederholt, DVM; and two brothers, Floyd (Mary) Wiederholt and Donald (Delores) Wiederholt.

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

Mary Kay Hurst

Mary Kay (Petitgout) Hurst, 80, of Asbury, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 11:32 p.m. Friday, February 2, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Phoenix, AZ.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on February 12, 2024, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be recited at 9:45 a.m.

Mary Kay was born on March 4, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Laurence J. and Jean A. (Fleege) Petitgout.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1961. Mary Kay was united in marriage to James R. “Jim” Hurst on February 20, 1965, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Mary loved spending time with her grandchildren and grand puppies. She enjoyed spending time with the friends and neighbors during her visits to Arizona but was always glad to get back home in the spring. She will be joining two very special friends that she missed dearly, Barbara and Rochelle.

Surviving is her husband, Jim; two daughters, Julie Hurst of Peoria, Arizona and Christie (Jesse) Dalsing of Hazel Green, Wisconsin.

Five grandchildren, Pamela Hunt, Justin Hunt, Zack (Felicia Dufek) Lee of Surprise, Arizona, Mackenzie Hurst of Phoenix, Arizona and Zander Dalsing of Hazel Green, Wisconsin; and a brother, Dan Petitgout of East Dubuque, sister-in-law, Kathy Petitgout; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, Steven M.,

Thomas F. Heying

Thomas F. Heying, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.  A private Catholic burial service was held at Behr Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial was in the family plot at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Tom was born on March 21, 1938, to Cletus and Germaine (Gassmann) Heying.

Tom was a graduate of St. Patrick’s School, Loras Academy and Loras College, Class of 1960.  Following graduation Tom enrolled in combat ready training at Fort Dix, N.J., during the Vietnam War.  Thankfully he was not called in the draft to active duty.

Tom then began his career in management with K-Mart Corporation during the 1960’s.  He was transferred around the country as new stores were opening staying on as store manager.  He was then transferred to K-Mart Headquarters as a buyer for K-Mart.  He remained in Troy, MI, until returning to Dubuque.

Tom was blessed with a good, happy, fulfilled life with family, friends and his faith.  He enjoyed travels in and out of the U.S., and meeting many interesting people along the way.  Tom had many interests and especially enjoyed sports, attending Super Bowls, The Masters and The Kentucky Derby.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and his brother-in-law, Glenn Stefano.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Stefano, several cousins and his lifelong friends.

A life well lived Tom.  Now rest in peace.

A heartfelt thank you to Marvin Ney and his staff from Paramount Ambulance, nurse Julie H. at Dubuque Specialty Care, Dr. Chapman and Dr. Jennifer Mohr at Medical Associates and the staff at Stonehill Care Center from many departments who were caring and kind to Tom.  Especially those on 1 South and 1 North who were caring and kind to Tom in his last difficult years.

Randy E. Wold

Randy Edward Wold, 62, of Dubuque, passed away February 5, 2024, in Dubuque, IA. Visitation will be 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, where a prayer service will be held at 6:00 p.m. with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.

Randy was born on May 21, 1961, in Dubuque to Richard Edward Wold and Karen (Deeny) Wold.  He graduated from Hempstead High School.  For many years, he owned and operated Vacationland Boat sales.  He was hard-working and well known as an excellent boat mechanic and overall handy man. He enjoyed camping and boating with his family on the Mississippi River.  He was an outgoing individual who could, and often would, talk your ear off, and he will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his mother Karen, his children Ryan (Jenna) Wold, Hannah Wold, Nicholas Wold, and Alex Wold; his grandchildren Brody and Bennett; his siblings Kim (Jim) Chapman, and Jason (Darcy) Wold and former wife Peggy (Dodds) Wold.

He was preceded in death by his father Richard Wold and niece Carrie Chapman.

Mark N. Johnson

Mark N. Johnson, 35, of Dubuque passed away unexpectedly after a hard fought battle with mental illness on Wednesday, February 6, 2024.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 10th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Matt Agee officiating.

Mark was born March 13, 1988, in Dubuque, IA to David K. and Debra S. (Every) Johnson.

He attended Hempstead High School and graduated from Central Alternative School in 2006.

Our precious son Mark was called home to his Heavenly Father.  Mark loved his family and his sweet rescue dog, Zoey.  His interests included cars, dogs, and hunting.  He was a gifted writer, artist and loved music.  Mark was incredibly smart and had a lot to offer the world, but sadly he was plagued by serious mental illness.  As much as we all wanted him to live a fulfilling life, he just wasn’t able to continue on.  We would all like to think that love could have saved him, but his pain was unbearable.

We know he now resides with our Heavenly Father, and we will be reunited in that glorious paradise.

Mark is survived by his parents David and Debra Johnson; siblings Natalie C. Johnson and Benjamin J. Johnson; his sweet dog Zoey; paternal grandmother Mary Jo Johnson, and maternal grandmother Juleen Every; uncles John Johnson, Jim Johnson, and Dave Every; aunts Sharon Wolbers, Kelly Vsetecka, and Valerie Every.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather John Johnson, and maternal grandfather Leland Every.

If someone you know is struggling with mental illness and or substance abuse, please reach out to do whatever possible to get better.  Please call the suicide crisis hotline at 988.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Mark’s name may be sent to NAMI of Dubuque and the Dubuque Humane Society.

The family would like to express a thank you to family and friends for their support through the years and especially now during this difficult time.

Mark, fly high with the angels.  We will love you forever and always.

Donna J. Kinsella

Donna J. Kinsella, 79, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, 10204 Key West Drive, Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Interment will be at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque.

Donna was born September 10, 1944 in Dubuque, the daughter of Norbert and Violet (Klein) Roling. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1962. Donna married Jerald M. Kinsella on September 4, 1965 at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in St. Catherine’s. Jerry preceded her in death on August 16, 2023.

Donna and Jerry loved to go out dancing, especially at Timmerman’s. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, baking chocolate pie especially for Jerry, and always stocking the grandkid’s favorite candy bars in her purse. Donna was very creative, and enjoyed home décor, cake decorating, and flower arranging. Halloween was a favorite of Donna’s- she loved to dress up and scare the grandkids. Donna also enjoyed golfing with her friends, and beating the Irishmen at Euchre.

Donna is survived by two daughters, Jodi (James) Vormezeele, of East Dubuque, IL, and Tonya (Marty) Hayes, of Dubuque; four grandsons (who were the light of her life), Tyler and Bailey Vormezeele, and Charlie and Ben Hayes; three siblings, Duane “Fred” (Judy) Roling, Elaine (Maurice) Schmerbach, and Marilyn Roling; and three brothers-in-law, James (Maggie Bockenstedt) Kinsella, Robert (Irene Sisler) Kinsella, and Kenneth (Penney) Kinsella.

In addition to her husband, Donna was preceded in death by her parents; and her niece, Karen.

Donna’s daughters would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to “Guggenheimer”, “Louie”, and all the amazing nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

Theresa M. Merkes

Theresa M. Merkes, 87, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, February 7, 2024, surrounded by family at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection followed by visitation until 8:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Theresa will be 10:30 am Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Theresa was born November 1, 1936, in Worthington, IA, the daughter of Alfred and Malvina Bonert Offermann. On November 24, 1959, she married Aloysius “Al” Peter Merkes at St. Francis Basilica in Dyersville, IA. He passed away December 1, 2014.

Most of her life, she helped her husband on their farm. After retirement from farming, she worked at Burger King.

She was a long-time member of Church of the Resurrection. She was a great baker and her family loved her apple pie. She was always feeding people and everyone loved her treats. She loved to play Euchre, dancing, taking care of her cats, and spending time with her grandchildren. One day, shortly after Al passed away, a guinea fowl showed up at her home. They formed a special bond and “adopted” each other. She called him “Guinea”.

Survivors include six sons, Paul (Valerie Canby) Merkes of Peosta, IA, Mark (Terri) Merkes of Dubuque, Pat (Sandy) Merkes of Epworth, IA, Mike (Tammy) Merkes of Dubuque, Roger (Christina) Merkes of Holy Cross, IA, and Kevin (Cindy) Merkes of Dubuque; 28 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Doris A. Offerman of New Vienna, IA, and Doris M. Offermann of Earlville, IA; and one brother-in-law, Joel Glennon of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Leon and Ernie Offermann, two sisters, Norma (William) Stevens and Lois (James) Jasper.

A memorial has been established.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque and especially the staff at Hawkeye Assisted Living Memory Care Unit for taking special care of Theresa.

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 Theresa’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Dorothy C. Vorwald

Dorothy C. Vorwald, 100, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 4, 2024, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Monday, February 12 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Dorothy was born on January 17, 1924, in Worthington, Iowa, the daughter of Nicholas and Emma (Brunkan) Dunkel.  She married Francis Vorwald on November 5, 1947, in Dyersville.  Together they raised their family and farmed between Dyersville and Worthington until retirement in 1991.

Survivors include her children: Ron (Mary) Vorwald of Worthington, Jean (Don) Krapfl of New Vienna, Julie (Roger) Boge of Earlville, Mark (Linda) Vorwald of Worthington;10 grandchildren: Tim (Melanie) Krapfl, Kathy (Dean) Welter, Traci (Steve) Burlage, Becky (Jim) Mudd, Kristy (Kevin) Russ, Charles Vorwald, Jennifer (Arnie) Bruns, Samantha (John) Karels, Matthew (Megan)Vorwald and Valerie (Tim) Schaffer; 17 great grandchildren; in-laws: Marilyn Vorwald and Shirley Vorwald both of Colesburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Frannie in 2010, siblings: Nick (Joan) Dunkel, Eileen (Roy) Sperfslage, Helen Heims-Bonert, Ruth (Gerald) Stronck, Bernice Dunkel, Herbert (Diane) Dunkel, Bernard (Rosie) Dunkel, Rev. Henry Dunkel, Lavern (Marie) Dunkel and James (Lorraine) Dunkel; in-laws: Vince (Rosie) Vorwald, Robert (Germaine) Vorwald, Jerry Vorwald, Ramona (David) Engelken, Anna Mae Vorwald, Kathryn (Louis) Mescher, Mary (Ray) Berg.

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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Arlene R. Weirup

Arlene R. Weirup, 86, of Baldwin, Iowa, died on Tuesday morning, February 6, 2024, at Addington Place in Clinton, Iowa.

Arlene Renee Farris was born on July 2, 1937, in Austin, Minnesota, to Ollie Ray and Beatrice Maxine (Chase) Farris.  Arlene’s adventurous early years were spent exploring Minnesota, California, Colorado, and Wyoming before settling in Iowa. She married Alvin Weirup, and they resided on the farm near Baldwin, Iowa.    

Arlene was an impeccable accountant, had served as the postmaster of the Baldwin, Iowa Post Office, and had worked at WALMART in Maquoketa for several years. 

Arlene had been a member of the Merry Knitter’s Club and had served as the accountant and on the board of directors of the Jackson County Senior Citizen Center.

Those left to honor her memory include 7 children; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a brother.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Alvin on April 16, 2020, 3 brothers and 1 sister.

A celebration of her life will held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 12, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, or any children’s charity.

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