Obituaries Archive

John Richard Klaas

John Richard Klaas, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa, made his way through heaven’s gates on Thursday, July 13th, 2023, leaving behind his devoted family, who were at his side at Bethany Home when his life here with us came to an end.

To honor John’s life, a brief visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31st, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31st at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Fr. Steve Garner officiating.  Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.   Military rites will be accorded.

This wonderful man was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on the cold, winter morning of February 16th, 1938, to his proud parents, Clarence “Shorty” and Agnes (Heiderscheit) Klaas. Though his birth certificate listed “John” as his first name, his mother decided to call him by his middle name of “Richard.” It wasn’t until the second grade when one of his teachers at Holy Trinity called him “John” that he discovered he had two first names.

Richard was a member of Holy Spirit Parish. This faithful servant always carried a pocket rosary with him at work. It was his reminder that God is always with us.

He graduated from Loras Academy in 1956. A very talented baseball player, he threw a no-hitter his senior year. According to his daughter, Roxanne, her dad is still the best Dubuque fast pitch softball player not yet inducted into the Dubuque County Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. Over the years she witnessed many softballs soaring high above the left field fence at McAleece Park. Richard also played a few years of semi-professional baseball. He even had a tryout for the Cleveland Indians.

Richard arranged for a chance meeting in 1958 with his future wife, Ann Voigts, after finding out through reliable sources that she hopped on the school bus to Senior High School at the corner of 12th and Iowa Street. One morning he “just happened” to be in the neighborhood before the bus arrived. The plan worked liked magic. He went on to marry this wonderful young lady and together celebrated 62 years of marriage. Richard and Ann were blessed with three children, Steve, Roxanne, and Mark.

Just prior to tying the knot, Richard and Ann pooled together their small savings and purchased a semi-tractor. It was the first step in what turned out to be a 7-million-mile professional truck driving career. However, Richard had to put this new career on hold for a short time after being called to service through the U.S. Army Reserves from 1961 to 1962 during the Berlin Crisis. This call to duty took him and his new bride to Fort Smith, Arkansas. After returning to Dubuque, Richard quickly resumed his truck driving career by taking a job with Flexsteel. After a year or so of moving furniture around the Midwest, he went on to drive what his children called the “Big Truck” at the Dubuque Packing Company until it closed in 1987. It was now time for Richard and his family to do their own packing. The entire family moved to Colorado after hearing Nation’s Way was looking for professional truck drivers. Richard and Ann spent almost 20 years in the Rocky Mountain state creating many friendships and memories before returning to Dubuque in 2007.

Sadly, Richard’s professional truck driving career came to a screeching halt in 2014 after he suffered three strokes. His days of driving an 18-wheeler on the open road all night long, crisscrossing the nation’s highways, were over. At the age of 76, ready or not, retirement had arrived.

Thanks to the loving care of his wife, Richard was able to enjoy many happy years away from the road despite his ongoing health issues. He was forever grateful for all that she did over the last 8 ½ years to ensure he was able to continue living at home. When that was no longer possible, the kind and compassionate staff at Bethany Home welcomed him into their family.

Richard loved his family and worked so hard to provide for them. The life of a truck driver isn’t easy. Back in the day at the Dubuque Pack, after driving all night long, he would rise early in the morning from his small cot in his tractor, open the back trailer door, and start unloading sides of beef (like the ones Rocky used as a punching bag).

He was a simple man who didn’t need much. A little duct tape would stretch the life of his wallet out for a few more years. Socks with holes in them could always make it another month or two. While enjoying a dinner out on the town, he would always order whatever meal was on sale to save a few bucks. But when going out to eat with friends and family, he was always the first one at the table to ask for the check. Richard taught his kids big words like “facetious” and created words like “oldsmobuick.” The Green Bay Packers and Chicago White Sox were his teams. Blue Bloods was his show. No cookie could ever surpass an oatmeal raisin. An apple fritter could make his day. He loved reading the newspaper, watching the hummingbirds, taking 10-minute naps, collecting road maps, and turning over the calendar to start the next month.

Although family time was always in short supply, Richard made the most of it when he was home. He loved visiting his sisters Mary and Gloria, playing cards, going to Eagle Point Park, watching barges navigate through Lock and Dam No. 11, taking family road trips to Chicago, playing catch with his kids in the backyard, spending a week at the Shacks cabins with friends in the summer, playing recreational fast pitch softball, and especially traveling to Nebraska to visit his grandson, Jonah. “Papa” was so proud of him.

Some of his proudest achievements included the multiple safety awards he received from Nation’s Way and Walmart for his accident-free mileage. Richard knew nearly every mile marker exit along I-70 and I-80. He was GPS before there was such a thing. As long as you were riding with him, you never had to worry about pulling over at the next gas station and asking for directions. Richard was also especially proud of his single up the middle off George Peterson, his children’s successes in life, and his best decision of all, finding the most devoted and loving wife, Ann, standing at the bus corner back in 1958.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Ann; his three children, Stephen (Dr. Tara Longoria) Klaas, Roxanne Klaas, and Mark Klaas; his favorite grandson, Jonah Klaas; his sisters, Mary Claire Klaas (special friend, Ed Ehlers) and Virginia (Lee) Nelson; his nieces, Kara (John Khouri) Klaas, Carolyn Klaas, Sue (Bob) Biddle, Debbie Ruden, and Stacie (Jodi Valdez) Neldaughter; his nephew, Paul Klaas; his two special great nephews, Patrick Khouri and Andy Khouri; his great aunts, Rosie Winner and Hazel Schend; his special cousin, Peggy (Gerry) Miller, and their daughter, Amanda; his sister-in-law, Yvonne Klaas; his truck driving buddies, Van Klause and Gary Noel; and his much-loved dachshund, Emily.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Gloria Klaas; his brother, Herbert Klaas; and his sweet, precious dachshunds, Sachi, Chester, and Nemo.

Special thanks to Richard’s sister, Mary, who visited him nearly every day these past 5 months, Dr. Hillard Salas, Dr. Timothy Martin, Hospice of Dubuque, and the entire staff at Bethany Home for their compassion, kindness, and exceptional care. We don’t know what we would have done without you. You will be in our hearts forever.

Memorials may be given to Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

After suffering those three strokes, Richard was never able to sit in the driver’s seat again. Without question, this was heartbreaking for him. He would have given anything to get behind the wheel one more time. It brings his family a sense of comfort knowing that he was in the driver’s seat again on July 13th, heading home, straight to heaven, his first and only one-way trip.

Richard will be forever missed by all those lucky enough to have known him.

Linda M. Morgan

Linda Marie Morgan, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.  To honor Linda’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Linda’s family.

Linda was born on March 20, 1942, in Cedar Rapids, IA, to Frank E. and Margaret J. (Campagna) Shaw.  She eventually met the love of her life, Jerry Morgan, Sr., on the 3rd Avenue bridge, and the two were united in marriage on July 14th, 1960.  They spent 63 wonderful years together raising their family.  Linda did work outside of the home for over 30 years at Waldenbooks.  She made many friends there, not only with her fellow co-workers but with many of the customers who called her “The Book Lady.” Linda enjoyed playing bridge, doing crossword puzzles, and reading, in addition to spending time with her family.  You could also find her enjoying her favorite beverage with a little salt and lime.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Linda include,

her loving husband,
Jerry P. Morgan, Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her children,
John Morgan (Pam), Dubuque, IA,
Jeffery Morgan, Dubuque, IA,
Joy Morgan, Mt. Vernon, IA,
James Morgan, Dubuque, IA,
and Jill Morgan, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter-in-law,
Kim Morgan, Mesa, AZ;

her grandchildren,
Staci Novak (John), Julia McGowan (Shayne), Becky Sawvell (Andy), Jerry Morgan III (Sarah), Brittany Birch,  Jenni McKernan (Phil), Breanne Morgan, Brandon Sheehan, Ana Morgan, Brooke Cabrera (Joseph), and Sunny Morgan.

her 21 great-grandchildren;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Jerry Paul Morgan Jr.; her sister, Virginia Pierce; her brother, Kevin Shaw; her step-mother, Betty Sills Shaw; and her step-father, Harold Heiderscheidt.

Linda’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care and support during these difficult days.  Your kind and gentle spirits have brought peace to our hearts and minds, and we are forever grateful for each of you.

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

Joan T. Nauman

Joan Theresa Nauman, 81 of Dubuque, died on July 15th, after a short battle with Acute Leukemia, surrounded by her family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday July 20, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. There will also be a visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday July 21, 2023, at the funeral home.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday July 21, 2023, at the funeral home with Father Steve Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Cassville Cemetery in Cassville, Wisconsin.

Joan was born on November 25, 1941, at home on the farm at Browns Bottom (known now as English Mill Road) in Dubuque, the daughter of Frank and Liz (Maas) Muntz. She was the 4th of 8 children. Joan graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1960.

She was married to Melvern (Curly) Nauman on November 18, 1961, and divorced on May 11, 1978 and remained friends. They had 4 children together. Joan worked at Dubuque Bank and Trust in many departments for over 35 years until her retirement in 2007. She enjoyed sewing, reading, cross stitch, making quillows and quilts, playing cards and going to the casino. She also enjoyed visiting her son in Texas, her sister-in-law in Florida and spending time with her family, most of all.

Joan will be missed very much by all who loved her. She is survived by her 4 children: Julie (Dennis) Jentz of Platteville, WI; Janell (Tim) O’Meara and Jena (Todd) Wilwert of Dubuque, and Robert Nauman (Thy Nguyen) of Saginaw, TX. Grandchildren: Myranda (Jimmy Bernhardt) O’Meara, Jacob (Sydney) Wilwert and Shane O’Meara. Step Grandchildren: Tristan (Shayne) Wilwert and Tiara (Ryan) Steffen, Calvin and Martin Nguyen. Great Grandchild: Marcella “Macy” O’Meara and another due in November. Step Great-Grandchildren: Anika and Silas Wilwert and Remington and Lilian Steffen.  Siblings: Margie (Lyle) Smith, Daniel Muntz, Betty (Ron) Gile and Joe (Betty) Muntz. Honorary Siblings: Jeff (Ann) Maas and Tim (Linda) Maas. Special Cousins: Rosie Besler, Kay Wilgenbusch and Mary Beitzel. In-laws: Nellie Muntz, Don (Helen) Nauman, Darlene (Don) Schmitt, Madonna Nauman, Roseann Nauman and Peggy Nauman, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, ex-husband Melvern “Curly” Nauman, Step Great-Grandchild Ashton Wilwert. Siblings: Frank Muntz, Florence (Tony) Zenz, Dorrance “Jake” (Roberta) Muntz. In-laws: Rose Muntz, Irvin (Mary) Nauman, Gerald (Phyllis) Naumann, Alfred(Whitey) (Darlene and Mary) Nauman, Kenneth (Dutch) Nauman, Harlan Nauman, Ronald Nauman. Nephews: Billy Muntz and Lyle Smith Jr. Special Cousins: Bob Selle Sr and Jim Beitzel.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided Joan, especially Hillary, Morgan, and Angelia.

Sharon C. Lochner

Sharon C. Lochner, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 17, 2023, at her daughter’s home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, July 21st, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22nnd, 2023, at St. Catherine Catholic Church with Fr. Dave Ambrosy officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Sharon was born in Dubuque on March 6, 1943, to Mary Speltz. She married Gerald Lochner on February 6, 1965, and they shared 58 years of marriage together.

Sharon was a loving mother, wife, and grandmother. She loved garage sales, boating, and the beach. Her family knows her for baking the best cinnamon rolls and cherry pies. You could always find her providing an abundance of life lessons with her famous sayings.

Sharon lived life simply and for her family. She will be remembered for her love of life, endless strength, and ba ba ba…

Surviving is her husband, Gerald Lochner; her children; Lana Lochner, Angie (Kip) Malott, Beth (Tom) Johnson, and Jim (Jill) Lochner, 12 grandkids and 4 great grandkids.

The family would love to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jenifer, Amber, and Morgan, for their infinite support and kindness.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Hospice of Dubuque.

Roxanne F. Picray

Roxanne F. Picray, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Private family services will be held.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Roxanne Faye Manning was born on July 19, 1960 in Iowa, to Lester Loyal and Eloise Marie (Green) Manning.  She attended Monticello Schools.  She married Eugene Picray Jr. on June 11, 2004 in Monticello, Iowa.  He preceded her in death in 2008.

Roxanne is survived by children, Crystal Yocum of Lawler, IA and Michael Recker of Cedar Rapids, IA; siblings, Tom Manning and Patricia Shady; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a sister Connie Mann.

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

Frank A. Hornung

Frank A. Hornung, 64, of East Dubuque, IL., passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA., following a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Frank was born on November 28, 1958 in Dubuque, IA., the son of Harland W. “Curly” and Mary (Miller) Hornung.

He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1977. Frank was formerly employed at Klauer Manufacturing and Spahn and Rose Lumber Company.

Frank enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Surviving are his two children, Lisa Hornung of Bettendorf, IA., and Robbie (Vanessa) Hornung of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Gabe, Levi, Harper and Addison; his siblings, Gary (Linda) Hornung of Dubuque, Steven (Sue) Hornung of Peosta, IA, Chris (Deb) Hornung, of Blanchard, MI., Mary Jo (Jim) Pullen of Dubuque, Andy (Sheri) Hornung of Galena, IL, Ellen (Sue) Hornung, and Beth (Steve) Weydert both of Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harland and Mary, his son, Brian and sister, Lynn Kelly.

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

Carson T. Sickler

Carson Tyler Sickler, 4 months old, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on July 9th, 2023, at 7:30 a.m. at home.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Carson was born on February 25th, 2023, beloved son of Rachel Frye and Nickolas Sickler and twin brother of Scarlett. Carson was always the cool, calm, and collected one compared to his twin. He was our smiley feller. He loved his swing and was a true mama’s boy. He will forever be our sweet guardian angel.

Carson will forever be a guardian angel to his parents, siblings Rogan, Haven, Holden, and his twin Scarlett, maternal grandparents William and Julie Frye, paternal grandmother Penny Sickler, great grandparents Sandra Matson, Bill and Jana’s Frye, and Jean Gehrke, uncles Jim (Jessica) Frye and Christopher Frye, aunts Emile (Lance) Green, and Carlee springman, and many cousins who loved him very much.

Carson in reunited with his great grandpas Jim Majerus and Orville Matson.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established for Scarlett, his twin sister.

Thank you for the tremendous amount of support, donations, cards, kind words, and love we’ve been shown.

Charlotte A. Hansen

Charlotte Ann Hansen (Freiburger), 81, died Saturday, July 15th, 2023 at 10:35am, at Stonehill Health Center.

Family and Friends may visit between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at St Anthony Catholic Church, 1870 St Ambrose St, Dubuque, IA, with the Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 a.m. with Father Steve Rosonke officiating.  Burial will follow the church services, at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 10378 Military Road in Key West, where she will be laid to rest along side her husband Lawrence William “Larry” Hansen. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, oversees arrangements.

She was born on June 24, 1942, in Dubuque, daughter of John F. and Harriet E. (Savary) Freiburger.  She married Larry Hansen on September 30, 1961, at The Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.

Charlotte worked in various positions, including; Showcase Coney, Econo Foods, Hy-Vee, and retired from Mercy Hospital, after several years, as a server and cashier.  She enjoyed vacations, taking rides, baking,  gardening, and planting flowers.  She especially loved spending time with her family and going to family gatherings.

Surviving are; children Sherry (Mike) Maas of Peosta, son-in-law James Yoder of Madison, WI, and Dan (Brandy) Hansen of Dubuque.  Five grandchildren; Mindy (Eric) Jenkins, Mandy (Jason) Goedken, Michael (Suzie) Maas, Braydon Hansen, and Ryker Hansen.  She is also survived by 5 great-grandchildren; McKayla, Oliver, Emmett, Keegan, and Amelia.  Also surviving is her brother John (Karen) Freiburger, and sisters Helen Freiburger and Mary Freiburger of Dubuque, and sister-in-law Mary Freiburger of Ralla, MO.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Deborah “Deb” Yoder (who she loved very much), her parents, brothers; James Freiburger, William Freiburger, and Charles Freiburger, sister Rose Freiburger, and sister-in-law Mariella Freiburger.

We would also like to thank, and honor, all the medical professionals involved, especially; Dr. Michael Peroski, Dr. Sara Loetscher, and Dr. Stephen Frommelt of Medical Associates, and RN Kristin Schroeder of Hospice of Dubuque.  Along with a special thanks to all the Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque staff involved in Charlotte’s Care.  Your expertise, support, and compassion, for all needs, is so very much appreciated, and will forever be acknowledged in her memory.  This is nowhere near enough … Thank-you!!

Richard J. Medinger

Richard “Rich” J. Medinger 87, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at Mercy One in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, July 20, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am on Thursday, July 20, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue prior to Mass.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter Paul Springbrook Facebook Page.

Rich was born November 22, 1935, the son of Bernard and Virginia (Gerardy) Medinger, Sr.  Rich married Gloria M. Kueter on November 27, 1954.  He started with United Telephone Company on April 11, 1955 and retired on January 11, 1993.  Rich then did a variety of things in his retirement including electrical work, and working for City of Bellevue.  Rich could and would fix almost anything for anyone.  He is an Honorary Member of the Bellevue Fire Department, Bellevue Horseman’s Club, lifetime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and Knights of Columbus 3^rd Degree of Bellevue Council 1354.  Rich cherished his time with his family and enjoyed attending all of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s events.  He enjoyed horses, hunting, fishing, camping, and woodworking.  Rich always had a good story to tell.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Gloria; children, Mark (Donna) Medinger, Jim (Connie) Medinger, Joan (John) Theisen, Sandy (Stan) Kueter, Chuck (Penny) Medinger, and Cindy (Randy) Blake; 22 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; siblings, Phyllis Yeager, Mary (Dennis) Guenther, Betty (Bill) Meyer; brothers and sisters in-law, Donna Medinger, Phyllis Schwager, Thomas (Mary Lois) Kueter, Joseph (Nancy) Kueter, Martha Rheingans, Dennis (Vicki) Kueter, Sue (Bill) Griebel; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; a son, John Medinger; siblings, Bernard “Junior” Medinger, Velma (Les) Benesch, Don (Doris) Medinger; brothers and sisters in-law, Don David, Art Yeager, Wilfred Schwager, Wayne Rheingans, Darla (Stanley) Sturm, and Mary (Allen) Kilburg.

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

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

William G. Darrow

William G. “Bill” Darrow, 68, of Benton, Wisconsin, passed away Friday, July 14, 2023, with his beloved wife, Cheryl, by his side. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at St. Patrick’s Church, Benton, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be after, in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 3-7:00 p.m. Friday, July 21 at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cuba City, Wisconsin, where there will be a Parish Scripture Service at 2:45 p.m. before the wake. A second visitation will be held from 9-10:15 a.m. Saturday at St. Patrick’s Church prior to the church service.

Bill was born on March 15, 1955, the son of William “Bill” and Elizabeth “Betty” (Jansen) Darrow. Bill was the oldest of ten children and grew up on a farm outside of Shullsburg, Wisconsin. As a little boy, his dad lovingly nicknamed him “Tinker” because he loved to build things and to fix anything that was broken. He was united in marriage to  Cheryl Kilcoyne on June 4, 1983, at St. Patrick’s Church in Benton, Wisconsin.

Bill spent many hours working in the garage on various project – he always had just the right tool and knew exactly where it was. He had many hobbies: restoring old trucks and cars, teaching himself how to play electric guitar, and woodworking. Bill always had a great sense of humor, a good answer for every question, and a twinkle in his eye. He was generous and always ready to help anyone, anytime, anywhere, with anything. Bill was a kind, loving husband, father, and grandpa; and he loved spending time with his grandkids most of all.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Cheryl; his two daughters, Erin and Beth; his four grandkids, Will, Natalie, Ava, and Max; his nine siblings, Vern, Randy, Wayne, Jeff (Jean), Jim, Joe (Elizabeth), Melody (Fred), Scott, and Darylnn (Nick); many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends; and his dog Maple.

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

In lieu of flowers, a William G. “Bill” Darrow Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI 53807. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UW-Health in Madison, as well as Dr. John Whalen and his team at Grand River Medical Group.

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

Amy Driscoll

Amy Driscoll, 59, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 -10:30 am Monday, July 17, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30 am.  Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podjajsky will officiate, and Rev. Noah Diehm will concelebrate.

Amy was born on July 30, 1963, in Omaha, NE the daughter of Keith, Sr. and Mary (Walsh) Cornelius.  She attended schools in Nebraska, including a one-room schoolhouse until they moved to Moville, IA and she graduated in 1981, from Woodbury Central High School.  She attended Western Iowa Tech, majoring in Police Science.  In January of 1984 she was hired by the State of Iowa Department of Public Safety, Capitol Police Division.  In 1985, she graduated from the 12th DPS Academy to become a State Peace Officer.  She met Jeff Driscoll at Capitol Police, and they married on May 10, 1986.  In July of 1987, they were assigned to Dyersville, Iowa with the Iowa State Patrol.  In 2007, she transferred to the Division of Criminal Investigation, until retirement in January of 2019.

She enjoyed baking chocolate chip cookies and apple pies, horseback riding, traveling to the Caribbean, and spending time with family and friends.  She also enjoyed watching sports, including Nebraska Volleyball, and simply being outside.

Although they had opportunities to leave Dyersville, they loved the community and passed up those opportunities, choosing to stay in the area.

Survivors include her loving husband of 37 years, Jeff; children: Cara (Joe) Recker of New Vienna, Marissa (Ethan) Brehm of Dyersville and Devon (Becca) Driscoll of Marshalltown; grandchildren: Willow, Wynnie and Ford Recker, and expecting two babies Brehm and Driscoll; mother, Mary Cornelius; siblings: Keith, Jr. (Laura) Cornelius of Council Bluffs, IA, Tina (Kent) Sachau of Humphrey, NE, Kerri (Lynn) Stallbaum of Martinsburg, NE, Julie (Joe) Leekley of Kingsley, IA and Carol (Jim) Millage of Russell, IA; parents-in-law: Tim and Mary Driscoll of Dyersville, sisters-in-law, Julie (Randy) Bauer of Walford, IA and Sheri (Tim) Rice of Lehigh Acres, FL.

She was preceded in death by father, Keith, Sr. and nephew, Bradley Bauer.

Amy was a believer in Catholic education so memorials are preferred to St. Francis Xavier School, Beckman Catholic High School and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Cheryl L. Andresen

Cheryl “Cherie” L. Andresen, 71, of Bernard, Iowa passed away on the early morning of Saturday July 8th, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Per her and the family wishes there will be no funeral or visitation. The family instead wishes for you to remember Cherie and all the good times spent with her.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Cherie was born on June 8th, 1952, in Davenport, Iowa, daughter of Edwin “Ed” and Edna (Forbes) Rauch. She had an older brother Edwin Jr. “Butch” he precedes her in death; and two younger sisters who survive her, Kim and Lisa. She attended and was a graduate of Davenport Central High School class of 1970.  She worked for 30 years at Oscar Mayer as a computer processor before retiring in 2001. It was there that she met the love of her life and future husband, Dave. After retirement, the two moved permanently to Leisure Lake in Bernard, Iowa to enjoy a simple life.

In 1972 Cherie welcomed her daughter who was her pride and joy into the world and then in 2000 her granddaughter Abbie was born who became her best friend, partner in crime and the apple of her eye. That was her girl.

Cherie enjoyed spending time with her girls, whether in person or for hours on end over the phone. She was the best at listening and caring. As a wife, grammie, and mom, she held all the answers. She was a master shopper who lit up any mall from the moment she walked in. She was a huge Iowa Hawkeye fan and watched all the football and basketball games passionately with her husband. You could hear her cheers from far across the lake. She loved being with her rescue dog, little Aimee.  And enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, watching game shows and old reruns from earlier years, and, of course, checking out all the scoop on Facebook.

She is survived by her husband David R. Andresen, daughter Juli R. (Mark A Howard) Andresen-Howard, and granddaughter Abbie L. Howard.

She was proceeded in death by her brother, mother and father, aunt, grandfather and her grandmother, whom she held dear to her heart.

She was a remarkable woman who loved deeply and was deeply loved back and will forever be missed and, in our hearts, forever.

Condolences can be made by sharing a story of Cherie on her Facebook page for her family to cherish forever.

Melvin R. Randolph

Melvin R. Randolph, 92, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Melvin Robert Randolph was born July 2, 1931 in McCausland, Iowa, to James and Frieda (Klemme) Randolph.  He attended and graduated from Delmar High School in 1949.  He then entered the military serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1954 to 1956.  After receiving an honorable discharge, he married the love of his life, Mabel Singelmann on March 18, 1956 in Delmar, Iowa.  They then started farming the homestead and Melvin also worked construction.

Melvin loved farming, raising livestock, and going to the casino.  He was a member of the Maquoketa Masonic Helion Lodge #36 AF & AM, Camanche Masonic Lodge #60, Clinton Scottish Rite, Eastern Star, Farm Bureau, and the Delmar Methodist Church.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mabel Randolph of Delmar, IA; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. The service will begin with a Masonic Service followed by the funeral.  Visitation will be held prior to all services beginning at 10 A.M.  Burial with military honors will be at 1:30 P.M., Tuesday, at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Delmar Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar United Methodist Church, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

William L. Kessler

William L. “Bill” Kessler, 87, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, at home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 17, 2023, at St. Rose of Lima Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call from 2-6:00 p.m. Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cuba City, where there will be a Parish Rosary Service at 1:40 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Monday at the church prior to the service.

Bill was born on February 7, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Louis and Glendoris (Callahan) Kessler. He graduated from Loras Academy in 1954. He then attended Bayless Business College and Loras College. Bill served in the United States Army for three years during the Korean Conflict. He was united in marriage to Kathleen M. “Kay” Wedig on May 19, 1956, at St. Peter’s Church in Elk Grove, Wisconsin.

Bill worked at John Deere Tractor Works for 15 years, Metropolitan Life Insurance for six years, and the Insurance Center for 17 years. He was involved at Siegert Funeral Home for six years and ran Cole Acres Golf and Supper Club for one year. Bill was a sales representative for J.P. Vincent Monument for over 50 years and was actively involved in numerous organizations. He was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus 4^th Degree and Honor Guard, serving as Grand Knight, financial secretary and treasurer for the Knights of Columbus Council 765. He received the Knights of Columbus Medallion Award. Bill was a member of the Galena Elks Club and Apostolate to the Handicapped with the Diocese of Madison for over 50 years. For 20 years, he served on the Cuba City Annual Picnic Committee, the St. Rose Cemetery Committee, and was a faithful member of St. Rose of Lima Parish. Bill was a member of the Dubuque Businessmen’s Association and Tri-State Area Notre Dame Club, where he served as president. He was a proud member of the Cuba City American Legion, Post 104 and was part of a Veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

Above all, Bill loved his family and they loved him. They enjoyed their family vacations and he never missed a sporting or music event for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kay” Kessler, Cuba City; three daughters, Kim (Kenneth) Heinrichs, Belmont, WI, Kitzie (Marty) Tashner, Cuba City, and Kara (Terry) Rizer, Georgetown; four sons, Kevin (Debbie) Kessler, Lewisville, TX, Chris (Linda Casiano) Kessler, Madison, WI, Kurt (Tiffany) Kessler, Bristow, VA, and Kory (Sue) Kessler, Dubuque, IA; a son-in-law, Ken Engelke, New Glarus, WI; a sister, Mary Lou Powell, Dubuqe, IA; 30 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Kellie Engelke; a sister, Glenann (Roger) Slade; a brother-in-law, Jack Powell; and two grandchildren, Blake and Bridget Tashner.

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

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

Thomas H. Mercker

Thomas H. “Thom” Mercker, age 65, of Galena, IL, unexpectedly completed his earthly journey on June 30, 2023, at home.  No public service has been immediately planned by his family, but they intend to have one in Galena to honor his life at an appropriate time in the coming months.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Thom’s family.

Thom was born on August 2, 1957, in Lafayette, IN, the youngest of five boys to Henry J. and Mary C. (Witcher) Mercker.  Thom was naturally gifted with a decisive and divergent mind, a calmness under pressure, and a personal drive that he carried throughout his entire life.  Thankfully, these traits fit quite comfortably with his career of 31 years as an air traffic controller. He spent the majority of those years with his friends and coworkers at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL.  Thom thoroughly enjoyed his work and faithfully gave his best until his very last day on the job.  In his free-time, Thom could regularly be found enjoying a nice ride on his Harley when a sunny day arrived, or in recent years, generously sharing his “Jack of All Trades” time and talents with the folks at the Safe Haven Animal Shelter.  Thom also enjoyed spending time with his friends at the V.F.W, the Legion Hall, and the Elk’s Lodge when time allowed.  He found great joy in volunteering and never met a need that he wasn’t willing to address when someone asked.  The world is surely a lesser place today without Thom’s love and friendship walking among us, and thankfully, he leaves behind an abundance of wonderful memories for all who knew and loved him to reflect upon during the more difficult moments ahead.  Thank you, Thom, for being the kind of man those around you needed most and may the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Thom include,

his two children,
Heather Mercker, Minneapolis, MN,
and Travis (Natalie) Mercker, Dayton, OH;

his two grandchildren,
T.J. and Grace Mercker, Dayton, OH:

his four brothers,
Larry (Kathleen) Mercker, Sarasota, FL,
Ed (Mary) Mercker, Boulder City, NV,
Bill (Bobbie) Mercker, Bourbonnais, IL,
and Jim (Paula) Mercker, Port Richie, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Thom was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thom’s name to the Safe Haven Humane Society, 1471 US 20 West, Elizabeth, IL, 61028.

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