Obituaries Archive

William R. Merfeld

William “Bill” Raymond Merfeld 82, died peacefully in the sun on Friday December 16, 2022. He was living in Fruitland Park, FL, formerly of Peosta and Dubuque Iowa.

Bill has requested no formal services.

He was born to Nicholas and Marie (Simon) Merfeld on November 8, 1940. He attended St Anthony’s grade school. On September 25, 1962 he married Patricia Arensdorf. He was a man with a brilliant mind and many talents.

Many friendships were established through his creative and mechanical abilities. He had a big circle of family, extended family and friends who loved and respected him. He was actively involved in the Hawkeye Vintage Tractor Club, the Dubuque stock car racing community, and the Villages model Boat Club in Florida.

Bill is survived by his loving wife Pat of 60 years as well as his children Greg (Lori) Merfeld, Jeff (JoAnne) Merfeld, Cindy (Mike) Kobusch, Angel Meyer, Keith (Jan) Merfeld, and Christy (Mike) Gotto. 24 Grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Siblings Millie (Randy) Dolter, Shirley Smith, Diane (Don) Schemmel, Carol Miller, Eldon (Connie) Merfeld and David (Dobie) Merfeld. Sister-in-laws Adele Merfeld, Rosie Arensdorf and Anna Mae Hansen, brother-in-laws Eldon (Cathy) Arensdorf, Glenn (Deb) Arensdorf, Tom (Kathy) Arensdorf, Ron (Kathy) Arensdorf, Garry (Laura) Arensdorf, and Kevin (Jolee) Arensdorf. Lost count on the number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son, Henry Nicholas at birth, his parents, and siblings Dorothy Tigges, Larry, Merlin, and Bernard Merfeld. Parents-in-law Grace and Henry Arensdorf and siblings-in-law, Marty Tigges, Bill Smith, Glenn Miller, Sue Merfeld, Mary Merfeld, Elmer Arensdorf and Ray Hansen.

While no funeral service is scheduled, a memorial gathering will be announced at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial cards and gifts can be sent for Bill Merfeld in care of Pat Merfeld, 4655 Old Highway Rd, Dubuque, Iowa, 52002.

Sr. Joan M. Opatts

Sister Joan M. Opatts, BVM, (John Annette), 87, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Dr., Dubuque, Iowa, died Monday, Dec. 19, 2022.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m. followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Joan was an elementary teacher at St. Anthony in Dubuque, Iowa. She also taught in Davenport, Iowa; Chicago; Rock Island and Cicero, Ill., and Tempe, Ariz.; and ministered as a tutor at a literacy center in Montgomery, Ala.

She was born Sept. 23, 1935, in Chicago to John and Anne (Krzewinski) Opatts. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1953, from St. Richard Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on March 19, 1956, and final vows on July 16, 1961.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her twin sister Anne (Fred) Kroll, and a brother John (Lorraine) Opatts. She is survived by a brother Bob (Marylynne) Cedar, Naples, Fla., nieces, nephews, cousins, and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 69 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, 100 N 6^th St., Bellevue, Iowa 52031 is in charge of arrangements.

Anna A. Beyer

Anna A. Beyer, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, December 26, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 27, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Fr. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Anna was born August 15, 1933 in Dubuque, the daughter of Joseph and Maria (Giunta) Giunta. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy. She married Edward Francis Beyer on August 21, 1952 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dubuque. He preceded her in death on November 21, 2009.

Anna was a member of Church of the Resurrection where she volunteered. She served as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts when her children were young. Anna was an avid bowler, and also enjoyed crafts, fishing, camping, and bingo.  She loved getting manicures. Anna’s greatest joy was her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandson.

Anna is survived by her children, Paul (Shelly) Beyer, Jim (Patti) Beyer, Mary Bradley, Bob (Julie) Beyer, and Carla Beyer, all of Dubuque; many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and one great great grandson; her daughter in law, Michele Beyer; her sister in law, Carmela Giunta; her extended family, Ron and Robin Greve; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her son, David Beyer; her daughter, Rose Beyer; her son in law, John Bradley;  and her siblings, Marco, Benedetta, Maria, Rose, Vincent, Joseph, and Anthony.

Anna’s family would like to thank Stonehill Communities, Finley Hospital ER, Hospice of Dubuque, and all the family and friends who offered their love and support.

Michael J. O’Shea

Michael John O’Shea, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Mike was born on February 2, 1951, the son of Mick and Marie (Bakey) O’Shea. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1969. He was employed for many years through the Laborer’s Union Local 659 Dubuque and 727 Illinois.

Mike loved his boys and spoke to them daily, he instilled a strong work ethic in them and always reminded them to “be safe, wear your seatbelt, and slow down on your drinking.” He was also the biggest practical joker, and especially loved getting the better of his Local 727 work buddies.

When he wasn’t working in the nuclear power plants, he enjoyed playing euchre, picking black raspberries, and taking country rides. Family gatherings were special times for the O’Shea family and the “Pass Your Ass” card game was a tradition at Christmas.

Mike is survived by his fiancée Lynn Schroeder; his children: Christopher (Jess Toth) O’Shea, and Eric (Liz) O’Shea, Katie Schroeder, Jamie (Kelsey) Schroeder and Jarod Schroeder.  His grandchildren: Morgan, Keuanna, Easton, Willow, Hayden, Cody, Caleb, Cameron, Clayton, Carson, Peyton, Aubrey, Addy, Parker and Paislyn; along with a great grandson Lincoln. His siblings: Ann Tierney, Sharon Young, Marty (Anna) O’Shea, Tom (Elaine) O’Shea, Maureen O’Shea, and Terry O’Shea; best friends: Gary Smith, Craig Jones and Doug Oberfoell, and his precious cats Mickey, Molly, and Lilly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, former wife Diane O’Shea, and brother-in-law Dick Young.

The family would like to thank MercyOne Dubuque, Dr. Eltibi, Crista Weber, ARNP, and her nurse Kim; a special thank you to his nurse Beth, who truly went above and beyond with taking care of Mike and lastly thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for all their care and compassion given to Mike and his family during his final days.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude’s and Shriners Hospital, both of which were very important to Mike.

Gary L. Muntz

Gary L. Muntz, 78, of Dubuque, died Monday, December 19, 2022, at Ennoble Manor after a courageous 13-year battle with prostate cancer.  Visitation will be from 2 to 5 pm Tuesday, December 27, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Visitation will also be from 9:15 to 10:15 am Wednesday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery where military rites will be accorded.

Gary was born August 6, 1944 in Dubuque, son of Lowell and Betty (Burris) Muntz.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and the University of Dubuque.  He also attended NICC.

Gary served in the US Army during the Viet Nam War.

On July 29, 1972, Gary married Andrea Gordon at Holy Ghost Church, Dubuque.

He worked at Standard Oil Credit Card, Louis Systems Security, in the office at the Dubuque Packing Company, as a materials handler for John Deere, and at Swiss Colony.

Gary enjoyed sports and music, and had an unbelievable wealth of knowledge on both subjects.

He was a lifelong Dodgers fan and was an Iowa Hawkeyes fan.

Gary was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his wife, Andrea Muntz of Dubuque; two children, Greg and Rachel Muntz, both of Dubuque; a brother, James (Charlene) Muntz and nieces nephews and many cousins.

A Gary Muntz Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Drs. Mark Hermann, Thomas Schreiber and Alex Horchak for their wonderful care.

Nadene J. Bussan

Nadane J. Bussan 95, of Galena, IL passed away Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at St. Michaels Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of mass. The burial will be in the church cemetery.

She was born December 26, 1926, in Elizabeth, IL the daughter of Harry and Vivian (Barnett) Bergstresser. Nadane graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1944. She was married in Galena to LeRoy Bussan in 1944, and he preceded her in death on April 26, 1997. She worked various jobs throughout the Galena area, including Millhouse Hardware, McCoy Insurance, where she retired, and the Belvedere Mansion as a tour guide in her retirement. Nadane was a horse lover her entire life and had many exciting stories. In her later years, she enjoyed visiting friends and family, the occasional game of euchre, and playing games with her grandchildren. She enjoyed being a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her children, James (Nancy) Bussan, Mark Bussan, Julie Bussan, Roy Bussan, Diane Edmonds, and Todd (Tracey) Bussan, and her many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Roundy Barnett, her husband, a son-in-law, Chuck Edmonds, and a brother, Truman Bergstresser.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Midwest Senior Care, Dr. Vandigo, and the entire Midwest Medical Center staff. Your care and kindness will never be forgotten.

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

Michael N. Dorr

Michael N. Dorr, age 62, of Centralia, passed away at 3:34 p.m., on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  To honor Mike’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Mike was born on April 20, 1960, in Iowa City, Iowa, son of Henry and Kathrine (Davis) Dorr.

Mike grew up in Davenport where he graduated from Davenport West High School, Class of 1978.  He was a devoted employee who worked in the casino industry for years, lastly with the Diamond Jo as a General Manager.  Mike also worked as a manager for Bowling and Beyond before retiring in 2012, due to health issues.  In his younger days Mike liked being outside hunting and fishing.  He also enjoyed riding his motorcycles and watching football.  Everyone knew that Mike’s main priority was raising his son and being a family man.  He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

Those left to cherish Mike’s memory include

his children,
Tamora Moriston, Manchester, IA,
Tanita Ehrler, Dubuque, IA,
Nadia Peterson, LaCrosse, WI
and Elias Dorr, LaCrosse, WI;

6 grandchildren,
Naomi, Abby, Sheyanna, Alexis, Athena and Logan;

7 great-grandchildren,
Amarionna, Rebel, Paris, Briella, Jacari, Robby III, Ah’loni;

and a brother,
Carl (Sandy) Davis.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Yvonne Davis.

Mike’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Mike.

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

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

Toyoko Westmark

Toyoko “Miki” Westmark, 96, of Dyersville passed away Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2022, 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, with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Miki was born on August 7, 1926, in Sendai, Japan, the daughter of Kenjiro and Misao Hyodo.  She married Paul Westmark on November 14, 1968, at the American Embassy in Tokyo, Japan.  After their return to the USA, Miki obtained her American citizenship in 1992, in Denver, CO, and was baptized in 1997, at the Basilica by Rev. Edward Petty.

While in Japan, Miki worked at the military base where she met Paul.  Together they traveled to many countries through the military and eventually moved to Aurora, CO where Miki worked at a middle school cafeteria which she loved.  In addition to working in the cafeteria, she worked at a nursing home.  When her husband, Paul needed care, she was a wonderful caregiver for over 20 years.  Miki was a skilled seamstress and an excellent cook, especially Japanese cuisine (her rice stuffing was a favorite of many).

Survivors include her nephews, Takayoshi (Eiko) Hyodo and Yoshinori Horie of Japan; nieces and nephews: Paul (Cathy) Bockenstedt of Eden Prairie, MN, Ann (Andy) Rettenmeier of Dubuque, Julia Westmark, Theodore (Alicia) Westmark and their daughter, Iris; great nieces and nephews: Lara Bockenstedt, Daniel Bockenstedt, James and Peter Rettenmeier, sister-in-law, Mary Bockenstedt, a cousin, Judy Henke of Dyersville, and special friends, Don & Dianne Kramer.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul in 2014; two sisters from Japan; a nephew, Daniel Bockenstedt; in-laws: Fred Westmark, Helen Westmark, and Walter Bockenstedt.

A special thank you to the staff of Ellen Kennedy Living Center and MercyOne Senior Care, where she was under the compassionate caretakers of 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 Kramer Funeral Home (in care of the deceased) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Randy J. Wieseler

Randy James Wieseler, 62 of Dubuque passed away Saturday, December 17, 2022. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 6 p.m. with Pastor Carter Jorgensen officiating. Military Honors will follow the service by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. A celebration of life and burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Randy was born on December 22, 1959, in Dubuque, the son of Kenneth and Lorraine (Gottschalk) Wieseler. He grew up in the Sherrill and Dubuque area, and later went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps. After his service, he returned to Dubuque and married Kristi Oberfoell. Although they later separated, they did an exceptional job raising three children. He never remarried, but always had his lifelong friend, Angel Puccio, by his side. He worked for many years at Area Residential Care; a job he enjoyed so much he spoke about it for many years to come. He also worked at Metz Baking.

Randy had many passions in life. He could often be found at Next Phase singing karaoke, and would love to sing and play guitar for anyone who would listen. In fact, he got great enjoyment out of going to nursing homes to perform for the residents, and appreciated that they didn’t really care if he fumbled the words. He was also very passionate about the children he had later in life: his cats. We know that Peanut, Baby and Ozzy are very happy to have him home. He loved his camper and taking it down to Camp 17, even when it seemed like more trouble than it was worth. Lastly, and the thing that brought Randy the most joy, was being around his grandchildren. Hearing the things his grandchildren had to say made him laugh like nothing else did.

Randy lived his life in a way that was unapologetically his own, without fear of judgement. Because of this, he left a mark on all those he met. The catchphrases that he used on a daily basis are now a topic of remembrance amongst his family and friends. Being around him was a joy, and a constant reminder that you can’t take life too seriously. Although he was a jokester, he truly had a heart of gold. He never left a conversation without a “love you” and his famous last words, “have a good Sunday.” Randy was a beacon of light in the world, and he will be sorely, sorely missed.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his three children, Justin (Stacey) Wieseler, Sondra (Alex) Schumacher and Leah Wieseler all of Dubuque; his lifelong friend, Angela Puccio; his grandchildren, Taylor, Sean, Payton, Logan, Cole, Georgia, Kamiyah, Kamora, Kamryn, and Jr.; his step grandchildren, Jackson, Julien, Jameson, and Dontae; sisters, Diane (Mark) Meier and Deb Kirschbaum; brothers, Richard (Debbie) Wieseler and Tony (Lori) Wieseler; sister-in-law Kim Wieseler; and his uncle who was more like a father, Uncle Lester Motsch.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Kenneth Wieseler, Jr.

A Randy J. Wieseler memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank all the healthcare professionals that cared for Randy, especially his visiting nurse, Christine Bentz.

Richard C. Wolf

Richard C. “Chuck” Wolf, Jr., 84, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa.

A gathering of friends celebrating Chuck’s life will be held from 4 to 6 P.M., Friday, December 30, 2022 in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  A private burial will be held at East Side Cemetery, Elkader, Iowa.

Richard Charles Wolf Jr. was born on December 31, 1937 in Elkader, Iowa, to Richard Charles Sr. and Mary Virginia (Bridge) Wolf.  He was salutatorian of the Class of 1956 of Elkader High School.  He then furthered his education at the University of Iowa receiving a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and English.  Additionally, he received his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in Madison.  Following graduation, he worked as a librarian at the University of Wisconsin until his father’s death in 1972 when returned to Iowa to care for his mother.  Chuck taught English and Government at Maquoketa High School for 31 years, retiring in 2000.

Chuck was active in the Jackson County Democrats and had served on the Jackson County Compensation Board as well as the Maquoketa Education Fund board.

Chuck was a beloved educator, world traveler, a dedicated Democrat, and a well-respected expert in Depression Era art glass.  In retirement, Chuck judged antiques at several local county fairs, and set up his own antique road shows to appraise antiques.

He is survived by a brother, Mark (Sue) Wolf of Grass Valley, CA.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to give special thanks to Mill Valley Care Center for the exceptional care.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Maquoketa Education Fund or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Jo Ella McAllister

Jo Ella McAllister, 68, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday December 19, 2022.

According to her wishes, no public services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Jo Ella was born on September 12, 1954, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and June (Hopp) Miller. She graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School in 1972 and worked at Finley Hospital for 22 years.

Jo Ella is survived by her siblings Phillip Miller, Verne (Cathy) Miller, Dori Hook, Jenny Rouse, Sara Jurisic, Joseph (Lisa) Miller, Rich (Gina) Miller and Phillip Miller Jr., and two grandsons whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and a sister.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, for the Jo Ella McCallister Memorial Fund.

Thank you to the nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital for their care and support.

Shirley A. Scholtes

Shirley A. (Hingtgen) Scholtes, 86, of Bellevue, passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Friday, December 30, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 9:30 am – 11:00 am, also Friday, December 30, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue prior to Mass.

Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Services will be livestream on Facebook and YouTube: St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook pages.

Shirley was born July 5, 1936 in Bellevue, the daughter of Michael and Adeline (Deppe) Hingtgen.  She married Roger Scholtes on July 15, 1976.  Shirley was a science teacher and head volleyball coach at Bellevue Community School for over 25 years.  She was the President of the Jackson County Humane Society and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  Shirley enjoyed many trips with Roger in their RV over the years, visiting family and friends.  She had a love for animals, playing sports, and cheering the Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes.

Survivors include her husband, Roger; step-children, Kim (Scott) Sheldon, Kevin ( Kristie Culver) Scholtes, Rick Scholtes, and Mark (Shannon) Scholtes; sisters in-law, Betty Scholtes, LaVonne Kueter, and Louann Scheckel, and a brother in-law, Jerry Schroeder; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended relatives.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Ethel (Howard) Breson; brothers and sisters in-law, Lorin Scholtes, Ronald Kueter, Donald Scheckel, Gene Scholtes, Janet Schroeder, and Leonard (Becky) Scholtes.

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

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

Eugene Kurt

Eugene Kurt, 84, of Bellevue, passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Eugene gracefully donated his body to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics for science. Private family services and no public visitation will be conducted.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Eugene was born September 19, 1938, the son of Raymond and Edith (Dirksen) Kurt. He married Sharon Jess on April 8, 1961. After high school Eugene went off to serve in the US Marines and upon returning he started his life long love of farming. He also worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years retiring in 1994. Farming and working with cattle was truly what he called a hobby. In addition, he loved to put many miles on his Harley and spend time with family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon; children, Kate (Michael) Elvin and Fred (Julie) Kurt; 4 grandchildren, Taylor (Eric Amerling) Elvin, Joseph Elvin, Mitchell (Yzabella Escobedo) Kurt, and Erin (Declan) Doyle; siblings, John Kurt, Lois Kramer, Ruth (Gerald) Byrne and Jim Kurt; sister-in-law, Diane Kurt; in-laws, Tom Jess and Marty (Joan) Jess; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Randall “Duke” Kurt; siblings, Lorraine Kurt, Dorothy Scheckel and Richard Kurt.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Jackson County Hospice in Eugene’s memory.

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

Esther J. Thome

Esther J. Thome, 92, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday December 19, 2022, at 9:40 a.m. at MercyOne Dubuque with her loving family by her side.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday December 22, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church 2921 Central Avenue, with Father Steve Garner officiating. Friends and family may visit from 9:00a.m. until the start of Mass at the church. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Esther was born on October 25, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of William and Pearl (Dornes) Steger. In 1948 she graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque. She was united in marriage to David L. Thome on April 11, 1953, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. She worked as a secretary for John Deere Dubuque Works up until her retirement in 1989. Esther was a member of Holy Ghost Church, Holy Spirit Parish in Dubuque for over 60 years. Her family and faith were the most important things to her.

Esther is survived by her daughters Julie Thome, Lori (Ron) Smith, and Jane (Bob) Walsh, son-in-law Gary (Becky) Valentine, grandchildren David (Samantha) Smith, Michael Smith, Megan (Miguel Gutierrez) Valentine, Matthew (Tatum Mays) Valentine, Samuel (Natasha Heeren) Valentine, and Emily McGrane, and great grandchildren Ryan, Elizabeth, Hunter and Henry Smith, and Liam Valentine.

She was preceded in death by her husband, daughters Susan Thome and Mary Beth “Macy” Valentine, her parents, sisters Sister Karol Steger O.S.F., Grace, and Violet Steger.

Thank you to the incredible staff at MercyOne Dubuque for the care and compassion provided to Esther during her final days.

Bruce Ohnesorge

Bruce Ohnesorge, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Sunday, December 18th at ProMedica Skilled Nursing in Dubuque, Iowa.

Bruce was born on May 19, 1945, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Robert and Marguerite Ohnesorge.

Bruce was a career soldier.  He traveled and lived in the US and abroad for the United States Army.  While in the Army he served two tours in Vietnam as a Special Ops/Special Forces Paratrooper/Linguist.  When Bruce retired from the Army after 33 years of service his rank was Chief Warrant Officer Five and he was last stationed at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

While in the Army Bruce earned many decorations, medals, badges, citations, and campaign ribbons including Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and many more.

After Bruce retired from the Army, he worked at NICC as an Economic Development Program Manager.  Once her fully retired he loved watching westerns and spending a few “sheckles” at the casino.

Those left behind by Bruce include his children.  Nickie Ohnesorge, Kim (Kenny) Kruser, John (Terissa) Ohnesorge, Anna-Marie (Aric) Lowe and Nathan Wilson.

His siblings Shirley Williams, Roberta (Jerry) Valentine, Anita White, Rita (Jack) Noel and his sisters-in-law Suzie Ohnesorge and Karen Ohnesorge.

Along with grandchildren and extended family.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings: Richard Kirsch, Betty Furlong, Dennis Ohnesorge, Steve Ohnesorge, Roger Ohnesorge in childhood, Robert Jr in infancy and is brother-in-law Robert White.

Bruce’s son John would like to thank all the following for helping him take care of his dad in the last several years.  Dubuque Veterans Affairs Clinic, Stonehill Care Center, Christine and all the staff from 24 Hour Care, Ahva living of East Dubuque, the entire staff of ProMedica Skilled Nursing and Rehab and Hospice of Dubuque.

Per Bruce’s request there will be no services and he will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia with full military honors.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory , Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Memorials may be directed to Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States.