Obituaries Archive

Alvin H. Nerney

Alvin H. Nerney, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, formerly of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Jackson Ridge Care Center in Maquoketa.

Visitation for Alvin will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Friday, April 4th at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Alvin will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Philip Agyei presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville at a later date.

Alvin was born November 17, 1936 in Hammond, Indiana, son of Francis and Violet (Johnson) Nerney.  He received is education from in the Hammond, Indiana schools.  He was a Veteran having served in the United States Army, during the Korean Conflict.

In 1960, he was united in marriage to Charlotte Scherer.  She preceded him in death on May 15, 1986.  On November 17, 1987 he was united in marriage to Diane Soppe in Louisville, Kentucky.

He was a traveling engineer consultant and enjoyed his job.  He also like learning all about History, and the companionship of his dogs.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Diane Nerney of Maquoketa; three daughters, Kathy (John) Bucciferro of Bettendorf, Jennifer (Tony) Luna of Corsicana, TX, and Emily (Justin) Candler of Cedar Rapids; a daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Nerney of Dyersville; 18 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; his brothers and sisters in laws, George (Connie) Helle of Anamosa, Carol Oberbroeckling, Doris Soppe, and Debbie Steger all of Dyersville, Dave Holz of Dubuque, and Leo (Donna) Soppe of Cascade.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; his son, Michael Nerney on October 14, 2023; two brothers, Jerold Nerney, and Robert Nerney; two sisters, Francis Nerney, and LaRue Nerney; his brother and sisters-in-laws, Louis (Jeri) Soppe, Loras (Erma) Soppe) Andy Soppe, John Steger, Beverly Holz, and Bill Oberbroeckling.

An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolence may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Jerry B. Hawbaker

Jerry B. Hawbaker, age 82, passed away peacefully March 20, 2025 at the White River Medical Center in Batesville, Arkansas.

He was born July 19, 1942 in Decatur, Illinois to Paul and Dolores (Barnett) Hawbaker. Jerry was a bright student and gifted athlete. He attended Millikin University on an athletic scholarship and played football for the Millikin Big Blue. When his coach saw his first semester grades, he called Jerry into his office and told him he was pulling his athletic scholarship and giving him an academic one instead! Jerry was a proud member of Millikin’s 1961 undefeated football team. Following two years at Millikin, he finished his studies at the University of Illinois, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Upon graduation, Jerry was hired by Deere & Co. He worked as a design engineer, as Superintendent of the Experimental Shop, and as a Project Engineer, retiring in June 1992. During his work career, he was awarded several patents for his engineering designs.

Jerry met his future wife, Barbara Skinner-Coble at a John Deere Christmas party in 1980. It was a mutual “love at first sight” for both. They had their first date a week later and were married on May 21, 1982. Together they brought to the marriage two sons and one daughter each. Friends referred to them as the Brady Bunch. Barb and kids moved to the farm in Bellevue, Iowa where Jerry lived, so it was “You are my Wife…Goodbye City Life”.

He pursued many hobbies. Jerry was an excellent marksman. He scored two perfect 300 games in league bowling and aced two holes on two different courses for a pair of holes-in-one in golf. Jerry loved woodworking and crafted many beautiful pieces of furniture for his wife, children, and grandchildren. He designed a log cabin home which was so nice that the log company asked if they could use his design in their portfolio. Jerry and Barbara started an Airbnb called Oak Crest Guest Homes in Dubuque, Iowa. Their most famous guests were the actress Amy Madigan, who played Kevin Costner’s wife Annie in the movie “Field of Dreams”. Amy’s real life husband, actor Ed Harris, joined her for one month of her three-month stay at the Oak Crest Cottage. Jerry and Barbara later purchased Neighbor’s Tap & Restaurant and ran it for a few years before selling it to Barb’s brother and retiring to Cherokee Village.

While living in Cherokee Village, Jerry enjoyed golfing, horseshoe pitching, bowling, playing softball, woodworking, pontoon boating, and volunteering time to the City’s Road Committee.

Jerry was a loving supportive husband and father. He was honest and kind and had a good sense of humor. He would shed tears at a sad movie. (We loved that about him).

He enjoyed a good game of Euchre or UP & Down the River. Jerry was always a “Good Winner”, as he would say, but he was equally an accepting “Good Loser”.

Jerry is survived by his beloved “Darlin” wife, Barbara of Cherokee Village; sons: William Hawbaker, Ben (Sonja) Hawbaker, Paul Coble, Craig (Kari) Coble, all of Iowa; daughters, Dianne (Derek) Maurer of Missouri and Carrie (Dan) Bull of Mississippi; sister, Carolyn (Steve) Thomton of Colorado; seventeen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren, many sisters & brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Eugene and Alice Skinner; and his grandson, Nate Hawbaker.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jerry’s name to the charity of your choosing or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which he was fond of.

A Rosary will be at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Cherokee Village on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 10:30 am. Funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Family will receive friends following Rosary and Mass at Tri-County Funeral Home Chapel in Highland from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Services are entrusted to Tri-County Funeral Home of Highland.

——-<>——-

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.

Mary Elizabeth Frye

Linda Manternach

Linda Manternach, 84, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on March 29, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, Iowa.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Catholic Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church. Burial will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Linda was born June 23, 1940 to George and Ella (Brun) McGovern in Cascade, Iowa. She was united in marriage to her high-school sweetheart, Urban Manternach, son of Clem and Mary (Gudenkauf) Manternach on October 21, 1961 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.  Together they had four children. Urban preceded her in death on March 23, 2024.

Linda devoted her life to taking care of her children and husband, maintaining a clean house, and working as a nurse. Her strong faith guided her in her daily life. She was a loving mother and grandmother that cherished spending time with her loved ones at all the family gatherings.  She always made the Holidays extra special by preparing a fun game for all to enjoy (bingo for Casino gifts, hidden ornaments, and Easter egg hunts).  These special touches brought joy to the entire family.  Linda spent the majority of her career as a night nurse for the BVM sisters of Mount Carmel.  After retirement, she worked as a caregiver for the Sisters of the Presentation. She enjoyed spending time playing the penny slot machines at the Q Casino. Linda had a multitude of Barbies that she collected throughout the years which she recently shared with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her four children, Beth (Paul) Hayungs of Eldridge, Chris (Donna) Manternach, of Dubuque, Nina (Tom) Siegworth of Dubuque, Dede (Jason) McDermott of Peosta; twelve grandchildren, Sarah (Ryan) Hackbarth , Emily (Brad) Meyer, Kayla (Brian) Price, Adam Manternach, Chad Manternach, Sam (Katie) McDermott, Anthony (Tabitha) Siegworth, Rachel (Sean) Flynn, Rebecca McDermott, Alex Hayungs, Nathan Siegworth, and Anna McDermott; eight great-grandchildren;  four siblings, Sr. Ann McGovern of Canton OH, Joan Otting of Cascade, Betty Leibold of Cascade, Bob (Cheryl) McGovern of Madison WI; brothers and sisters-in-law, Phil (Nikki) Manternach of Cascade, Donna Reisberg of Dyersville, Marilyn (Steve) Skahill of East Dubuque, IL., Carol Dolan of Dubuque, Pat McQuillen of Cascade, and Lois Manternach of Worthington.

She was preceded in death by her loving spouse, Urban Manternach; her parents; her siblings, Buddy (Georgine) McGovern,  Jackie (Buddy) Trumm, Donna (Merlyn) Reinke, Faith (Bob) Kelly, Tommy McGovern, Marie (Ken) Green; brothers and sisters in-law, Delores McQuillen, Lloyd Manternach, Ellen Manternach, Pete Dolan, Don Reisberg, Louie Leibold, and Jerry Otting.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center, as well as, the staff from the Hospice of Dubuque for all their care, love and support.

William L. Ihm

William L. “Bill” Ihm, 89, of Menominee, IL, passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Luther Manor (Hillcrest) in Dubuque, IA.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 – 11:15 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Nativity BVM Church in Menominee where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m., with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787.

Bill was born on August 11, 1935, in Menominee Twp. of Jo Daviess County, IL, the son of Aloysius J. and Laura C. (Vaessen) Ihm. He was a member of Nativity BVM Parish and its Holy Name Society, East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787 and formerly served as a volunteer with the Menominee-Dunleith Fire Dept.

Bill’s passion in life was farming and enjoying time spent with his grandchildren. He was known to be a good storyteller and loved making people laugh.

Surviving are his children, Gregg Ihm and Gary Ihm, both of Menominee, IL, Cheri (Randy) Burkholder of Dickeyville, WI, Colleen (Mike) Schmidt of Woodbury, MN and Geoff (MaryAnn) Ihm of Thornton, CO; ten grandchildren, Brea,Jordan, Mitchel, Ben, Nick, Paul, Joey, Sam, Kiana (Seth) and Piper; his former wife, Ruth (Sherman) Ihm; his siblings, Jerry (Carolyn) Ihm, LaVonne Polfer and brother-in-law, LaVern Heitzman; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Laura, siblings, Mary (Alvin), Dorothy and Jim, brother-in-law, Al Polfer and sister-in-law, Loralee Ihm.

The family would like to give special thanks to the nurses and staff at Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, Lee Donar and Dr. John Whalen for their care and kindness shown to Bill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org).

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

Catherine M. Pfalzgraf

Catherine M. “Katy” Pfalzgraf, 92, of Dickeyville, WI, passed away at home, surrounded by family, on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Wednesday, April 2 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home with the committal in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  A livestream of the funeral service can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Katy was born December 30, 1932 in Dubuque, daughter of Harold and Mildred (Hocking) Milligan.

On October 17, 1970, she married Bruce Pfalzgraf at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Katy worked at Dubuque Packing Co. for 30 years, spending most of the time there in the sliced bacon department, and FDL for five years.  She also did house cleaning and taught senior water exercise class, “rusty hinges”.

She was a member of TOPS for many years where she made lots of friends.

She enjoyed going on trips to Las Vegas with girlfriends, where she saw Liberace and Tom Jones perform. She also enjoyed camping for many years, at Jellystone for 17 years then in rural Galena for 16 years.

She is survived by her husband, Bruce Pfalzgraf of Dickeyville; five children, Diane (Don) Riedl of Sherrill, IA,  Pam (Dan) Wiederholt of Long Grove, IA, Steve Roloff of Lancaster, WI, Sheila (Charlie) Dimke of Galena, IL  and Vicki (Steve Lyster) Pfalzgraf of Platteville, WI; grandchildren, Jessica (Donovan Moser) Riedl, Kevin (Emily) Riedl, Carrie (Robbie) Aristodemo, Jenny (Kevin) Hulsen, Tyler (Nicole) Kleiner and Cole (Morgan Wiegel) Kleiner and nine great grandchildren.

She is also survived by a sister, Joan Marie (Al) Reuter of Alabama and many cherished nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Glen; and a sister, Carol Cole; a grandson, Keith and a great grandson, James.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Diane and Peggy, for their loving care.

James A. Schwendinger

James “Jim” Anthony Schwendinger, 82, of Cuba City, WI, died on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at St. Raphael’s Cathedral.

The Mass of Christian Burial for James will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

James was born October 14, 1942, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Alphonse J. and Catherine (Cleary) Schwendinger.

Jim served in the United States Army Reserves. He worked in retail for Sears for over 18 years after which he enjoyed working on his small hobby farm. Jim truly enjoyed farming, hunting, and shooting trap, he was an excellent shot and won many trophies. He was a longtime, faithful member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral, his faith was very important to him. Above all, he was happiest when he was spending time with his family.

Survivors include his two sisters, Rosemary Weydert of Winthrop, IA and Virginia McGovern of Kansas City, MO; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his four brothers, Robert (Dorothy), Anthony, John (Jean), and Donald Schwendinger; and two sisters, Kathleen (John) McKillip and Margie (Donald) Saugling; two brothers-in-law Roy Weydert, and Fred McGovern.

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 Jim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

John K. Maurus

John Kenneth Maurus, 76, of Hanover, IL, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL, where friends may call from 10:30 AM until the time of service. The burial will take place at a later date.

John was born on August 9, 1948, in Irvington, NJ, to Jack and Theresa nee` Rehbein Maurus. He attended Rutgers University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and later studied analytical chemistry at the University of Minnesota. He began his career as a chemist and fire investigator for Pantecnic Inc., later becoming a fire investigator for Probe Inc. In his later years, he founded John K. Maurus Fire Investigations Inc.

He served in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Captain before receiving an honorable discharge. On October 11, 1981, John married Laurie Starrett. He was actively involved in several organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Later, he served as a scoutmaster, traveling with the scouts across the country and assisting those who were working to achieve their merit badges. He was also a member of the Sports Car Club of America, where he participated as a driver, pit crew member, and steward. John enjoyed reading, studying maps, exploring National Geographic, traveling, sports, music, and visiting National Parks, among other outdoor activities.

He is survived by his wife Laurie, their daughter Greta Starrett, a sister Joyce Maurus Sullivan of Lafayette, NJ, and a brother Joe and his wife Cindy Maurus of Branchville, NJ.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Nikolaus Maurus.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ASPCA or the Sierra Club in memory of John.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to their loving extended family and caring friends during this difficult time.

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

Carol A. Lambert

Carol A. Lambert, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at Stonehill Care Center on March 27, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Carol was born on August 23, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of William and Marian (Kraker) Connolly. She graduated from Clarke College in Dubuque with an associate degree in education and dedicated her career to supporting students in the Special Education Department at Stephen Hempstead High School. On February 7, 1959, in Dubuque, she married the love of her life, Donald Francis Lambert.

Carol was a devoted member of the Adult Literacy Council and will be remembered as a loving and kind-hearted mother and grandmother.

Carol is survived by three children Larry Lambert, Sheila (Jack) Owen, Mike Lambert, 11 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, sister Mary Hagensten, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, and daughter Lisa Lambert.

The family would like to thank Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Leonard Funeral Home for their loving care.

Ramona Sweeney

M. Ramona Sweeney, 95, of Dubuque died Thursday, March 27, 2025. A committal service will be held 9:30 am Wednesday, April 2, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Chapel.

Ramona was born August 13, 1929 in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Clarence and Eve (Blake) Sweeney.

After graduating from St. Joseph Academy High School in Dubuque, she attended Mercy School of Nursing in Dubuque.  She then received her BSN from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska and her MSN from Catholic University of America in Washinton DC.

She worked at various positions in nursing and retired from the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Des Moines.

She is survived by many nieces and nephews, including her niece Maureen Wagner and great nephew, Doug Gauer.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She was also preceded in death by her siblings and their spouses; Cy and Rosie Sweeney, Monica and Lee Steffen, Ed and Helen Sweeney,  Esther and Al Wagner, Bernadette Sweeney, Sally and Joe Van Zile, and Mark and Jeanette Sweeney.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Jerome J. Mistek

Jerome “Jerry” J. Mistek, 86, of Dubuque, IA, passed away March 26, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd is assisting the family.

Jerry was born November 16, 1938, in Ely, MN, to Joseph and Mary (Lobe) Mistek.

He attended Ely Public Schools in Ely, MN, and earned a B.E.E. degree from University of Minnesota. As Registered Professional Engineer in Iowa, he worked at Interstate Power Co. in Dubuque, IA, as an Electrical Engineer from 1966 to 1998. Retiring as the Manager of Communications and Metering.

Jerry married Aneta Hansen June 18, 1966, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Jackson, MN. Aneta preceded him in death on January 14, 2025.

Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to1962. He was a member of the NRA, ATA, and ISTA, and served as secretary for Shot Tower Sports.

He enjoyed time spent with family, especially at the Mistek cabin in Ely, MN, as well trap shooting, and reading.

Jerry is survived by his children; Jodi A. (Steve) Moore of St. Joseph, MO, Joseph G. Mistek of St. Joseph, MO; granddaughters, Jaime A. Moore and Kristen L. Moore of St. Joseph, MO, sister Mary Theresa (Missy) Davis of Danville, CA.

He is preceded in death by his wife Aneta Mistek, parents Joseph and Mary Mistek, and brother Carl T. Mistek.

Tina Smith

Tina M. Smith, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Care Initiatives, Dubuque Specialty Care, with her family by her side.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the funeral home with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Tina was born on August 18, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Joseph A. and Georgene M. (Nelson) Butlett. She worked as a beautician and hairdresser before joining Armstrong’s Department Store, where she met her husband. Later, she spent 11 years at Sears. She was united in marriage to her husband, Gary, on September 22, 1984, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

She loved playing bingo in her younger years, crocheting, and caring for her beloved cats. She also enjoyed watching a good soap opera, but above all, she cherished time with her family. In her final months, she often brought smiles to those around her with her favorite response to “How do you feel?”—“With my fingers.” Her humor and warmth will be deeply missed.

Tina is survived by her husband Gary, daughter Teresa Smith, siblings Debbie (Randy) Oberfoell, Irene (Bob) Ehlers, Randy (Jodi) Butlett, Lisa (Keith) Williams, and Clint (Rita) Butlett, brother-in-law Dave Smith, as well as several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law Don & Effie Smith, brothers Joey and Greg (Kris) Butlett, and siblings-in-law Ron (Gladys) Smith and Karen Smith.

The family would like to thank Dubuque Specialty Care for all of their wonderful care of Tina, as well as Hospice of Manchester. The family would also like to thank her sisters Debbie Oberfoell and Irene Ehlers for all the special care and attention that they gave to Tina.

Cody A. Smothers

Cody A. Smothers, age 34, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque after a courageous battle with cancer.  There will be a Celebration of Cody’s life held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Lux Club, 3050 Asbury Road, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Cody’s family.

Cody was born on October 27, 1990, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Lonnie Smothers and Patricia (Tuthill) Wernimont.

Cody attended Fulton Grade School, Jefferson Middle School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 2009.  He was a hard worker and began his working career helping out at Beanie’s Café.  He was later employed with Quad Graphics and as Team Lead in hinge doors for Anderson Window and Door.  Cody married the love of his life, Tasha Purdy, on October 9, 2020, at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.  Cody was a self proclaimed “nerd”.  He was extremely competitive and liked playing video games, tabletop games, cards, bowling, and disc golfing.  Cody also enjoyed watching movies, dancing and doing projects around the house with the kids.  His family meant the world to him and he was a great daddy!  Cody was happiest when he was with family and friends.  He will be greatly missed, and we will cherish all of the memories we have made together throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Cody’s memory include

his wife,
Tasha Purdy-Smothers, Dubuque, IA;

3 children,
Vance Eubanks, Isabella Smothers and Maya Smothers;

his mother,
Patricia Wernimont, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Rhonda Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Brian (Kelly) Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Angel Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
T.J. (Nicole) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Kay) Wernimont, Marl, Germany,
Josh (Karissa) Wernimont Dubuque, IA
and Tasha (Jake) Donath, East Dubuque, IL;

his father-in-law and mother-in-law,
Blaine and Pam Purdy, Sherrill, IA;

his in-laws,
Robert Purdy, Cedar Rapids, IA
and Brittany (Anthony Strub) Purdy, Dubuque, IA;

his other “brother”,
Jimmy Thomas, Dubuque, IA;

and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cody was preceded in death by his father, Lonnie Smothers; his grandmother, June Tuthill; 2 uncles, Dan Tuthill and Rich “Tiny” Tuthill; and 2 aunts, Cindy Key and Sharon Armstrong.

Cody’s family would like to thank his co-workers at Anderson Window for the outpouring of support they have provided for Tasha and the entire family.  Also special thanks to Dr. Johlin with the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the Holden Cancer Center and the entire ER staff of MercyOne Dubuque.

Cards and memorials in Cody’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Cody Smothers Family.  Donations may be made through their GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/cf1551ae

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

Donald J. Bohnsack

Donald Joseph Bohnsack, 91, of Galena, IL, sadly passed away on March 26, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his wife and children. A funeral mass will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of the mass. Military honors will be presented at the church following the conclusion of the mass by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The burial will take place at a later date, as cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Donald was born on December 16, 1933, to Benjamin and Catherine (Yackey) Bohnsack. He graduated from Galena High School and, in 1953, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with 10 other young men from Galena. He was stationed in California and Korea during the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant before being discharged in 1955. After his return from military service, he began his career as a State Trooper for the Illinois State Police, serving for 26 1/2 years until his retirement.

On October 3, 1970, he married Dorothy Vandermillen at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque. Together, they purchased a 100-acre farm on the outskirts of town, which they operated with the support of their friends and family. After many years of hard work, Don and Dorothy transitioned from farm life to build a home in the city, where they spent the next 37 years. Don’s retirement was short-lived, as he took a job as a tour director for Tri-State Tours. This position allowed him to explore all corners of the country while entertaining travelers on the buses.

In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing and took many pheasant-hunting trips to South Dakota with his friends. He had a deep love for birds and could quickly identify all the various visitors to his bird feeders, ensuring that the birds at his home were well-fed, often better than any other dinner guests.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Dorothy, and his children, Maria Bohnsack of Moweaqua, IL, and Andrew (Molly) Bohnsack of Madison, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Darlene, Delbert, Helen, Leroy, Violet, Loretta, Delos, and Jane.

A special thanks goes out to Don and Dorothy’s wonderful neighbors—Mark and Jamie Moran, Dan Balocca and Lauren Knapp, and Larry Cording—who have shown tremendous love and support over the years, and to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Michelle, and Jill for their care.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Jude’s in memory of Don.

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

Donald C. Zillig

Donald “Don” C. Zillig, age 84, of East Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a brief illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday April 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 170 Montgomery Ave., East Dubuque. IL, with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating. Visitation will precede the mass at the church from 9:00 -11:15 a.m. Interment will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery at a later date.

Don was born on October 3, 1940, son of Joseph and Alvera (Fluhr) Zillig. He attended grade school at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Dubuque. He was a proud graduate of the 1958 Class of Loras Academy.
He married Karen (Kay) Oliver on December 31, 1960, at St. Mary’s Church, East Dubuque.

Don was a salesman for the Dubuque Packing Company, FDL Marketing, and Hormel Foods before retiring in 2007. His career took him to the Des Moines area from 1985-2007 where he and Kay made many good friends. Upon retirement, they returned to East Dubuque and resided at their retirement home at Frentress Lake on the Mississippi River.

He was a senior member of the Jo Daviess County Board representing Dunleith Township Precinct No. 2 for 15 years. He thoroughly enjoyed the friendships and accomplishments made while he was on the board.

Don had a great sense of humor and created a home full of love and laughter. Don enjoyed spending time with his family and friends on the river, fishing, pheasant hunting, and golfing with his family members and friends at Lacoma Golf Club. He also enjoyed the weekly Wednesday gatherings of his high school buddies at Jumpers Sports Bar & Grill to eat and play Euchre.

Surviving Don are his wife of 64 years, Karen (Kay) Zillig; a son, Dan Zillig and his children Luke and Rachel Zillig, of Woodbury, MN; a daughter, Deb (Jerry) Bruns of Waukee, IA and their children Zach (Dani) Bruns of Ankeny, IA; Chelsey Bruns of West St. Paul, MN; and Ike (Emily) Bruns of Des Moines, IA; great-granddaughters, Perri Bruns and Margot Bruns; sister-in-law Jean Noonan of Dubuque; and sister in-law Carol (Wesley) Boal of Dubuque, IA; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, and his 5 older siblings, June (Leighton) Noonan, Richard “Rich” (Jean) Zillig, Charles “Chuck” (Nancy) Zillig, Joyce (Bob) MacFarlane, and John “Jack” (Barb) Zillig. And his in-laws Donald & Cecilia Oliver, Donald “Ollie” (Gerry) Oliver and Anne Meeks.

The family extends a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Diane, Morgan, Melanie & Stephanie, for all the help, support and guidance they offered.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque and the East Dubuque District Library.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home & Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road, Dubuque, IA 52002 is assisting the family.

Constance E. Weber

Constance E. Weber, 83, of Colesburg, Iowa passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at St. Patrick Parish Center in Colesburg. Funeral Mass will commence at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Colesburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John Haugen will officiate.

Constance was born on October 31, 1941, in Colesburg, Iowa, the daughter of Arnold and Marie (Lansing) Weber. She was a CNA for many years and received the Caring Heart Award from Finley Home Care, a testament to her love and care for her patients.

She loved to travel and explore, especially her trips to Europe and Hawaii. She was very joyous and full of love for all she knew and met. In her free time, she enjoyed art, poetry, reading, and history. She loved all animals, but had an unbreakable bond with her horses she adored for several years. Constance cherished her siblings, parents, and all of her nieces and nephews.

Survivors include her in-laws: Dick Haupert, Mary Weber, Deb Weber, in-laws: Betty Weber; and several nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Joseph Weber, Catherine (Roland) Westhoff, Alice (Charles) Nurre, Donna (John) Kruse, Joan (Ray) Nurre, Joe Weber, Angeline Haupert, Jim Weber, and John Weber.

The family would like to thank staff at MercyOne Senior Care, Hospice of Dubuque, and Ellen Kennedy Living Center for their compassionate care.

She will be greatly missed by all, but especially by her family and loving nieces and nephews.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneral.com.