Obituaries Archive

Anna F. Megger

Anna F. Megger, passed away on the day after her 101st birthday, July 28, 2023, at Bethany Home.  To honor Anna’s life, private services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Anna was born on July 27, 1922, in Germany, daughter of John and Sophia (Krolek) Greisinger.

Anna grew up in Germany and came to the United States to make a better life for herself, where she worked as a beautician for several years.  She married Alfons Megger on December 27, 1954, but he sadly preceded her in death on July 26, 1997.  She was a devoted Catholic and a member of Holy Spirit Parish.  In her free time she occasionally enjoyed trying her luck at the local casino.  Anna lived an extraordinary life and has seen incredible changes and advancements in her 101 years.  She will be missed by all of her friends.

Those left to cherish Anna’s memory include

her close friends,
Shelly Mess and Mary Klaas.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband Alfons Megger.

Anna’s friends would like to thank all of the nurses and staff members at Bethany Home for the wonderful care and home they provided for Anna.

Evonda S. Diel

Evonda S. (Powell) Diel, 72, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, July 31, 2023 after a long battle with cancer.  A Celebration of Life will be 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Saturday, August 5, 2023 at Off Shore Resort Bar & Grill.  Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service.

Evonda was born, January 20, 1951, in Fulton, Missouri, the daughter of C.B. and Ruth Irene (Schmid) Powell.  She graduated from New Franklin High School (Missouri) in 1969, she then graduated from Business School.  Evonda married Glen Downs and two children were born of this union, later she married Mike Diel, he passed away in 1989.  She was an avid collector of many things; especially loved collecting teddy bears and she enjoyed sewing.  Evonda lived most of her life in Missouri but moved to Bellevue 7 years ago to be closer to her family.

Survivors include her children, Carrie (Robert) Weaver of Bellevue, and John (Jeannine) Downs of Kansas City; grandchildren, Brianna Talbot, Jordan Talbot, Dakota Weaver, Jordan Weaver, Ashley Weaver, Dustin Talbot, Lily Downs, Liam Downs, Brandon Weaver, and Sophia Weaver; siblings, Jim (Norma) Powell and Rich (Jan) Powell; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

Evonda was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Mike Diel.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Evonda Diel Family 100 N. 6th Street Bellevue, Iowa 52031.

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

Douglas J. Crosby

Donald A. Demmer

Donald A. Demmer, 81 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Monday, July 31, 2023, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to commence at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with Rev. Philip Agyei officiating.  Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137.

Don was born on August 16, 1941, in Dyersville, Iowa, the son of August and Lena (Mensen) Demmer.  He met Dora Even at a school dance and were united in marriage on October 2, 1962, in Dyersville, Iowa.  Don served in the US National Guard in 1962 and was released to the Army Reserves until 1967.   He also farmed the family farm from 1963-1972, worked at John Deere from 1972-2001 and drove semi from 1988-2016.  Don enjoyed playing golf, playing solo downtown with friends, and going to grandchildren activities.  He was a great husband, “marrying his best friend”, a loving dad, “playing ball with his children after work”, and a strong faith filled man, “attending mass at 7 every Sunday morning until his health declined.

Survivors include his wife, Dora, his children: Michael Demmer of Earlville, James (Lisa) Demmer of Powhatan, VA, Kathy (Joe) Wessels of Earlville, Sue Ellen (Randy) Helle of Dyersville, Timothy (friend Kris) Demmer of Farley, 16 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, brother, Loras (Jean) Demmer of Greeley, brother-in-law, Jerry (Patricia) Even of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, LaVern and Ardella Even, sister, Grace Gassmann, and sister-in-law, Kay Eilers Demmer.

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 12thAve SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Neil R. Gavin

Neil R. Gavin,  83, of  Cascade, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2023,  at Accura Health Care in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Neil may call from 3 to 8  p.m., Friday, August 4, 2023, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m., Saturday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at  10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 5, 2023, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will be held in the Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

Neil was born April 3, 1940, in  Monticello, Iowa, son of Verdon J. and Helen (Oeschger)  Gavin.  He received his education in the Cascade area schools, graduating from St. Martin’s High School in 1958.   On June 19, 1970, he was united in marriage to Sherrie D. Babbage at St. Ludmila Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  She preceded him in death on April 7, 2006.   The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area.

Neil is a veteran having served in the  Marine Corps for 9 months.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, a youth 4-H leader, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus-Council #930, and a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He is survived by three children, Matthew (Ann) Gavin of Robins, IA and their children Mandy, Samuel and Lara Gavin; Gail Gavin of St. Paul, MN and Allen (Laura) Gavin of Robins, and their children, Emily and Griffin Frisby;  a special friend, Joanne Childers of Dubuque, IA; hissiblings, Kenneth Gavin of Steinwendle, France, Gwen Kukla of Chicago, IL, Phyllis (Michael) Mott of Feckingham, England, Greg (Peggy) Gavin of Shreveport, LA, Gary (Gloria) Gavin of Cascade, IA, and Mark (Katie) Gavin of Williamsburg, IA.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Amy Jo Gavin, a nephew, Kraig Gavin and a great niece, Chelsea Peterson.

A Neil R. Gavin memorial fund has been established in lieu of flowers.

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

The family would like to thank the staff at Accura Health and Hospice of Dubuque for all their kindness and care.

Glenn T. Flury

Glenn Thomas “Tom” Flury, 84 of Bellevue, Iowa passed away on July 29, 2023, at home.

Per his wishes, no public visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Tom was born on April 2, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of James and Laura (Garret) Flury. Tom served in the US Army from 1957 until 1960. He married Luann Westemeyer on November 20, 1971, in Dubuque.

He was employed at John Deere, retiring as a supervisor. While Tom worked at John Deere he attended evening classes at the University of Dubuque to further his education.

He belonged to the Bellevue Golf Club. Tom enjoyed golfing, boating, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.  His biggest pleasures were his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughters.

Surviving is his wife of 53 years, Luann; daughters Amber Amundson, of Taos, MN, and April (John) Berendes, of St. Donatus, IA; and his son Glenn Flury Jr., of Monticello, IA; along with six grandchildren and three great granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jim and John; his sister Beverly; a son Lloyd Schromen Jr.; and son-in-law Craig Amundson.

The family wishes to thank Glenn and Donna Droessler for the many trips to Iowa City; Frog and Donna Westemeyer for weekly visits and apple pies; Key West Fire & EMS, the Dubuque County Sheriff Dept and Leonard Funeral Home for all their wonder care, kindness and compassion.

Kevin D. Kline

Kevin D. Kline, a loving husband, proud father & even prouder grandpa, left this world suddenly on Wednesday, July 26th, 2023, as a result of a tragic hiking accident in El Paso, Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 10 AM, Saturday, August 5, 2023, at Grand View Methodist Church, with Rev. Tom Shinkle officiating. A visitation will be held from 3-7 PM, Friday, August 4, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road and from 9-10 AM, Saturday at the church.

Kevin was born August 7th, 1961, in Charles City, Iowa, the son of Carol (Chadwick) Kline & Edward Kline. He married the love of his life, Sharlene Elgin, on July 21st, 1984, and together they had 2 children: Austin & McKenzie.

Kevin leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew him. His wife, children, and grandsons were the center of his universe, and he took immense joy in being there for them through every milestone and celebration. When his grandsons would visit, their excited voices echoed through the house – “grandpa, I here!”. Kevin’s eyes would light up with delight. Whether it was spending a summer day by the pool, helping tend to his impeccable yard, watching Saturday morning cartoons, or simply playing on the floor, he had a connection with his grandsons, making each day memorable and special.

Food was another one of Kevin’s passions, and he had an insatiable appetite for all things delicious. Yet, beyond his love for meals, he found the greatest joy in sharing dinners and desserts with his family. Those gatherings around the table were not just about the food, but about the laughter, love, and unity that flowed freely between them.

Whether it was a spontaneous dance with his loved ones or moving to his favorite tunes alone, he found solace and joy in the melodies that touched his soul. He appreciated things being done right and his impeccable yard was a testament to his dedication and love for his home. Rising early on Saturday mornings, Kevin would be the first to mow the lawn (whether it needed it or not). Afterward, he would meticulously clean his cars, a reflection of his attention to detail and importance of taking care of things you care about.

Sundays were a day of rest, you could find him watching the Raiders, Nascar or a good movie. Kevin’s free time was also spent on technology and fitness, showcasing his curiosity and desire for personal growth. Always eager to learn and become a better version of himself for those around him.

Above all, Kevin’s legacy will be defined by his unwavering love for his family. He was a proud family man, and his actions spoke volumes about the depth of his devotion. Kevin made it clear to his loved ones that he would do everything in his power to support and protect them.

Kevin had a deep faith and believed in a better afterlife. In his absence, we are left with memories of a caring and selfless soul who brightened the lives of everyone he touched. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he led and the love he bestowed upon us. May Kevin’s spirit live on through the love shared among family and friends, reminding us to cherish each moment and embrace the bonds that truly matter in this gift of life.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 39 years Sharlene; son and daughter-in-law, Austin & Megan Kline of Dubuque, IA; daughter, McKenzie Kline of Dubuque, IA; three grandsons, River, Reign, Rome Kline of Dubuque, IA. He also leaves behind his sister Tina (Tony) Roy of Nashville, TN; father-in-law, Robert Elgin of Peosta, IA; sisters-in-law, Sherry (Craig) Osterhaus of Dyersville, IA, Sheila (Marty) Krapfl of Dyersville, IA, Sarah (Carey) Schroeder of Lena, IL, Susie (Dave) Wilson of Earlville, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Kline and Carol Kline, and mother-in-law, Gladys Elgin.
A Kevin Kline memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the El Paso Combined Search and Rescue Team – El Paso State Park Police, El Paso Fire Department, and El Paso Police Department for their efforts and compassion. We also extend a special thank you to our family and friends for their outpouring love and support.

Jim Dausener

Jim Dausener, 71, of Epworth, died Monday, July 31, 2023, at his home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Jim was born February 27, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Carl F. and Mae A. (Frederick) Dausener. On April 15, 1972, he married Mary Ann Gronau in Dubuque, Iowa.

Jim graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1970. He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years. His main focus in life was his family.

Survivors include his loving wife of 51 years, Mary Ann of Epworth; his two sons, Jason (Tricia) Dausener of Epworth and Matt Dausener of Mt. Vernon, IA; two brothers, Edward Dausener of Dubuque and Rich (Krista) Dausener of Charleston, SC; and his sister, Jane (Bill) Lesch of Bettendorf.

He was proceeded in death by his parents and father and mother-in-law, Walt and Betty Gronau.

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

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

Karen A. Walbrun

Karen A. (Stevens) Walbrun, 76, from Dubuque, IA joined the love of her life in eternal rest on July 29th, 2023.

Karen was born on January 19th, 1947 in Dubuque, IA to Francis J. Stevens and Anna J. Andregg. Karen was a graduate of Clarke University in Dubuque, IA in 1994.

Karen was married to Joseph J. Walbrun on January 6th, 1984 at the University of Dubuque’s Blade Chapel.  Karen and Joe shared 32 blissful years of marriage together.

After graduation, Karen dedicated her life to her passion of serving the youth and families of Dubuque County.  Karen worked as a Social Worker and Court Liaison at Juvenile Court Services, the Dubuque County School District, Hilcrest Family Services, and Life Connections.

Karen was a strong woman, known for her persistent personality, nurturing soul, and quick wit. She loved to travel, especially to Las Vegas to visit friends and “win big”.  She loved being spoiled by Joe and had an eye for things that sparkle. She was known by her family as the “shop queen” and in her free time could be found at her favorite local stores, playing Hand & Foot with her family, or watching “Day of our Lives” while working on a puzzle. She will be remembered for her love of nature, as she spreads her butterfly wings and soars the sky with her “wild eagle.”

Karen is survived by her two children; Randall J. (Bari) Richter, Michelle L. Mulgrew; three grandchildren: Stephanie L. (Brian Hefel) Kalvig, Garrett (Madison Thurm) Richter, and Paul (Timber Thomas) Richter; one great-grandson: Darrow Kalvig; five siblings: John (Carol) Stevens, Bob Stevens, Gerri Becker, Jeff Stevens, and Denis Stevens; one sister-in-law: Betty (Bob) Cromartie; life-long friend: Carla (Tom) Juergens, friend: Ron Healey, along with many beloved extended family members and friends.

Karen is preceded in death by her husband: Joseph Walbrun:  her parents: Francis and Anna Stevens; in-laws: John and Eleanor Walbrun; brother: David Stevens; two brothers-in-law: Mike Becker and John Walbrun; nephew: Joshua Stevens; and her Andregg aunts and uncles.

The family would like to thank Karen’s special friends Shelle and Kris Schroeder for their love and support of Karen and Pam Stedwell for always pampering Karen.

Karen requested there not be a wake or funeral in her memory, but a Memorial Gathering to celebrate her life.  Karen’s gathering will be held on August 6th, 2023 at the Log Cabin at Eagle Point Park starting at 11:00am.  online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karen’s honor to the Veteran’s Freedom Center or Whispering Hope Animal Rescue.

Mary Jane Hoffmann

Mary Jane Hoffmann, 89, of Epworth, Iowa, died, Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Luther Manor-Meadows in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Mary Jane may call from 4 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 3:30 P.M.

Services for Mary Jane will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 3, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

Mary Jane was born August 13, 1933 in Cascade, Iowa, daughter of Oliver and Frances (Althoff) Tucker.  She received her education in the Country schools in Monastery country school. On January 10, 1956, she was united in marriage to Sylvester Hoffmann at Holy Family Catholic Church in New Melleray.  He preceded her in death on November 21, 2008.  The couple farmed in the rural Epworth area until their retirement.

She was a great cook and baker, everyone claimed her potatoe salad was the best and when she baked her homemade bread twice a week, each and every time the crust was fought over by everyone.   She quilted many quilts and crocheted many afgans that she gave to family members. She liked to play a game of cards/Most of all she enjoyed time spent with her family.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish and it’s Rosary Society in Epworth, and the Eastern Iowa Polka Club.
She is survived by one daughter, Marce Then of Epworth, IA; three sons, Marvin (Lynn) Hoffmann of Epworth, Mike (Mary) Hoffmann of Farley, IA, and Gary Hoffmann of Epworth, IA; 15 grandchildren, Bobbie (Shannon)Kramer, Greg (Bud) Ernzen, Doug (Rylee) Ernzen, Bethany (Chad) Remakel, Tyler (Kelsey) Then, Tracy Griffith, Kristy (Tyler) Schieltz, Alan (Whitney) Hoffmann, Abby Hoffmann, Heidi (Tom) Lower, Matthew Hoffmann (& friend, Kat Angelini), Sarah (Nick) Hirsch, Jessie (Aaron) Burkum, Ashlee Hoffmann and Theodore Hoffmann; 22 great grandchildren, Dakota (& fiancé, Morgan)  and Sofia Kramer, Dylen, Logan and Charlee Remakel, Amelia and Tate Then, Charles and Henry Lower, Rowan, Emmett and Ruby Hirsch, Evan Burkum, Ava Hoffmann, Owen Brynn and Mia Schieltz; her siblings, Ruth (Jack) Riedl of Dubuque, IA, Edna Mae Tucker of Dubuque, IA, and Carolyn (Clyde) Thielen of Peosta, IA, brothers and sisters-in-law, Floyd (Luetta) Hoffmann of Independence, IA, Clementine Hoffmann of Bernard, IA, Erma (J.J.) Decker of Key West, IA, Mary Lange of Dubuque, IA, and Kenneth Hoffmann of Dubuque, IA, Coletta Tucker of Dyersville, IA, Francine Tucker of Manchester, IA.

She is preceded in death by her Parents; a son Ronald “R.J.” Hoffmann on April 24, 2006; a son in law, Terry “T. T.” Then on July 18, 2005; a daughter-in-law, Lori Hoffmann on Juy 13, 2022; his mother and father in law, Oliver and Frances Tucker; her siblings Robert Tucker, Allan Tucker Carl Tucker; brothers and sisters-in-laws, Richard Hoffmann and Edmond Lange.

A Mary Jane Hoffmann memorial fund has been established.

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

Jeanette D. Fondell

Jeanette D. Fondell, age 92, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 8:01 a.m., on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Ennoble Manor.  To honor Jeanette’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:15 a.m., on Friday, August 4, 2023, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road.  Funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, at the church, with Rev. Phillip G. Gibbs officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Jeanette was born on August 4, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Leo and Bessie (Graham) Donovan.

Jeanette was a proud life-long resident of Dubuque, where she graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy.  She met the love of her life, John Fondell, and the couple would marry on February 27, 1954, at St. Joseph’s Prairie.  They had 6 children together and celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary before John sadly passed away on July 25, 1979.  Jeanette was a devoted wife, mother and homemaker and in later years would also go to work for Kwik Stop as a clerk for 8 years.  Her faith was an important aspect of her life and she was a long time member of Holy Ghost Church before joining the Church of the Resurrection.  In her free time, Jeanette enjoyed playing cards with her friends in several card clubs, and watching her beloved Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes on TV.  No doubt, spending time with her family brought Jeanette her greatest joy, and she was quick to point out how proud she was of everyone.  She was a wonderful woman who always had a kind word and a helping hand for those around her.  Jeanette will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Jeanette’s memory include

her 6 children,
Michael “Mike” (Pam) Fondell, Webster Groves, MO,
Robert “Bob” (Debby) Fondell, Maryville, TN,
William “Bill” Fondell, Chesterfield, MO,
Richard “Rick” (Amanda) Fondell, Urbandale, IA,
Ronald “Ron” Fondell, Johnston, IA
and Jolene (John) Howard, LeClaire, IA;

11 grandchildren;

10 great-grandchildren;

2 sisters,
Doris Wiederholt, Hazel Green, WI
and Rita (Tom) Kurt, Bernard, IA;

and 3 sisters-in-law,
Eileen Donovan, Dubuque, IA,
Eileen (Dean) Jewett, Dubuque, IA
and Sister Bonita Fondell, Dubuque, IA.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John Fondell; 2 brothers, Robert Donovan and Roger Donovan; and a brother-in-law, Ken Wiederholt.

Jeanette’s family would like to thank the staff of UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, Ennoble Manor and The Rose for their kindness and compassionate care.

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

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

Michael J. Berg

Michael Jon Berg, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend to many passed away on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at Stonehill Health Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30, Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa with Father Steve Rosonke officiating. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery, Lily, SD at a later date.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 1, 2023 from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Hoffmann Schneider Kitchen Funeral Home.

Michael Jon Berg was born September 7, 1960 in Lily, South Dakota to Marvin and Dolores (Pippert) Berg. He was a graduate of Bristol High School, Northern State University and earned his MBA from University of South Dakota. Mike administered medical clinics for Sauk Centre and Worthington, Minnesota, Dubuque and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, including 15 years at Dubuque Internal Medicine.
Mike was united in marriage to Rebecca (Becky) Weber on August 7, 1982 in Pierre, South Dakota. They lovingly raised their two children. Mike enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing, playing games and cards, golfing, jogging, music, meeting new people, and serving his community.  Each activity was enhanced by a Dr. Pepper and a sweet snack.

Mike is survived by his wife of 41 years, Becky; his son Peter Berg of North Liberty, IA; his daughter Melissa Bresler (Bryan) of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren Breccan and Adlee Berg, McKenna and Roman Bresler; sisters Linda (Jim) Kane, Gloria (John) Ewalt, Bonnie Berg; brothers Larry Berg, Steve (Susan) Berg; in-laws Dianne (Paul) Hansen, Sr. Jeanne Weber, Sharon (Tom) Holzer, Ron (Mary) Weber, Tony (Shari) Weber, Bob (Tess) Weber.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law Phil and JoAnne Weber.
In lieu of flowers, plants, and statues, the family prefers donations to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Stonehill Health Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, or Dubuque Arboretum.

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

Richard A. Kaiser

Richard A. “Dick” Kaiser, 86, of Galena and formerly of Menominee, passed away Friday, July 28, 2023, at his home. Funeral mass will be held at Noon, Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Nativity BVM Catholic Church, Menominee, where friends may call after 10 AM at the church until the time of mass. The burial will be in the church cemetery. Cremation rites have been accorded. Military honors will be accorded graveside by American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born November 16, 1936, in Dickeyville, WI the son of John and Margaret (Gerhards) Kaiser. Dick served in the United States Army National Guard from September 16, 1954, until his honorable discharge on May 20, 1959. He was united in marriage to Shirley A. Miller on April 21, 1956, at Nativity BVM Catholic Church, Menominee and she preceded him in death on January 4, 2018. Dick was employed by Sears as an appliance repairman for 45 years and was known all over the Tri-State area and loved by everyone he met. After retirement, he continued to offer help in any way he could, to whoever might need it, spending 10 years as the handyman of the Prestwick Senior Living facility. He was a die-hard fan of the Chicago Cubs and Wisconsin Badgers. He was a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by three sons, Keith (Paula), Kevin (Cyndi), and Kurt (Angie) all of Galena; nine grandchildren, Jennifer (PJ), Tyler, Christopher, Casey (Megan), Darien (Kyle), Gavin (Tiffiney), Kailyn (Ross), Logon, and Kassity (Matt), great-grandchildren, Payton, Chloe, Walker, Austin, Kennedy, Reese, Bennett, Keigan, Everlee, and Remi all of Galena, brother, Robert (Judy) of Kieler, WI, sister, Annette of Dubuque, IA, and a special friend, Carol Frank.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, four brothers, Merlin, Delbert, William, and Harry, brother-in-law Dick Miller, and sisters-in-law, Bernita and Alice Kaiser.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque in memory of Dick.

Online condolences may be left at furlongfuneralchapel.com.

Gerald Ricke

Gerald “Jerry” Ricke, 83 of Menominee, IL passed away Sunday, July 30, 2023, at his home. A funeral service will be held at 12 PM, Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born February 10, 1940, in Menominee the son of Joseph and Theresa (Hasken) Ricke. Jerry married Vicki Ann Smith on November 16, 1963, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena and she preceded him in death on August 27, 2021.  He worked as a guide for the Wild Boar Ranch. Jerry retired from Flexsteel after thirty years of service. Together he and Vicki started their own craft business Calico Rainbow doing craft shows throughout the tri-state area. He enjoyed traveling, bowling, woodworking, and playing cards.  

Jerry is survived by a son, Terry (Janice) Ricke, a granddaughter, Natalie Ricke, a sister and brother-in-law, Marlene (Robert) Wallenhorst, and a niece, Michelle Wallenhorst.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, and his in-laws, Joseph and Sybella (Miller) Smith.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Loetscher, Jake Belken, Tom and Cathy Nelson, and the staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris and Ryan, and Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque, IA. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Angela J. Kaune

Angela J. “Angie” Kaune, age 69, of St. Olaf and formerly of Dubuque, passed away at 11:20 a.m., on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Scenic Acres.  To honor Angie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Angela was born on September 26, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Lawrence and Ann (Norton) Dillon.

Angie attended Visitation Academy for 3 years, graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School, Class of 1971, and went to work.  She worked as a clerk for St. Vincent de Paul and in the laundry and as a candy-striper at Mercy Hospital.  She had a knack for storytelling and was a dreamer who kept people entertained for hours.  Angie loved her daughter and always looked forward to spending time with her.  She was a people person who loved life and lived it to the fullest.  We are saddened at Angie’s passing, but know that she is now resting peacefully, free from the health challenges she has faced these past years.

Those left to cherish Angie’s memory include

her daughter,
Jessica (Parker) Sonstrom, Minneapolis, MN;

2 sons,
Joshua and Jacob;

and her siblings,
Kathleen Edwards, Monong, WI,
Pat (Karen) Dillon, East Dubuque, IL,
James (Lois) Dillon, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph (Sue) Dillon, Davenport, IA,
Thomas (Sue) Dillon, Dubuque, IA
and Jerome “Jerry” Dillon, Sarasota, FL;

and a sister-in-law,
Donna Dillon, Dubuque, IA.

Angie was preceded in death by her parents; 2 sisters, Susan Dillon in infancy and Margaret Dillon; a brother, Mike Dillon; and her in-laws, Robert “Sully” Sullivan, Dean Edwards and Connie Dillon.

Angie’s family would like to thank all of her care givers at Scenic Acres for their kindness and compassion.

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

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