Obituaries Archive

Velma A. Hoppman

Velma A. (Spielbauer) Hoppman, 92, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023. Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, January 20, 2023 at Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street, Dubuque followed by a prayer service at 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Church of the Nativity, with additional visitation 9:30 am until Mass. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

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

Velma was born October 8, 1930 in North Buena Vista, Iowa, the daughter of John “Jack” and Marie (Schmidt) Spielbauer.  She attended Immaculate Conception Academy in her youth, and later on, married James “Jim” J. Hoppman in 1950. Together they moved to St. Catherine’s in 1953, then to Mason City in 1977, and returned to Dubuque in 1992. Velma enjoyed the beauty of travel with her family, particularly adventures on the family bus. She was known for her famous pumpkin bread, with loaves at the ready for hungry grandchildren and greats when they visited. Above all, Velma cherished time spent with her beloved family and enjoyed watching them grow. She was a longtime member of the Church of Nativity and was devoted to her faith. A bright light and gentle soul, Velma will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Phillip (Geno) Hoppman of Dallas, TX, James (Dianne) Hoppman, Jr. of Dubuque, Carol (James) Watters  of Naples, FL, Donna (Don) Mottet of Bellevue, Dennis (Vicki) Hoppman of Sheffield, IA, Michael (Debbie) Hoppman of Springfield, MO, Jeffrey Hoppman of Riverside, IA, Christine (Ron McDaniel) Thompson-Bolton of Boone, IA, and Paul (Brandi Kauffman) Hoppman of Bellevue; 28 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James J. Hoppman, Sr.; a son, Daniel Hoppman, 2 daughter in-laws, Linda and Barbara Hoppman, a son in-law, Gary Thompson; and many beloved members of the Hoppman and Spielbauer Families.

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

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

Kent D. Klingman

Kent D. Klingman, age 64, of Galena, IL, formerly of Cedar Rapids, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 13, 2023, at home while surrounded by his loving friends. To honor Kent’s life, a private family service is being held. Burial will be in the Cedar Memorial Cemetery in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kent’s family.

Kent was born on March 8, 1958, in Prairie Du Chien, WI, a son to Louis D. and Donna Mae (Thein) Klingman.  Kent earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa. His career path led him to Toyota Motors where he worked as a credit dispute analyst until eventually retiring in 2019. His most important role was husband to the love of his life, John Reinheimer. They spent 27 amazing years together until John was sadly called home in 2021. John and Kent enjoyed their years in Cedar Rapids, but they both agreed to retire to Galena and enjoy the quieter life. Kent had an unwavering commitment to family and friends and always strived to be the best man that he could be. His attention to detail, ability to recollect and communicate past events, and admiration for all that was good in this world were continually on display. We will miss Kent, and his kind, compassionate demeanor, and are forever grateful for the time the Lord shared him with us. Thank you, Kent, for your unwavering love, for leading by example, and for showing us how to be brave and have faith always. We will miss you more than you could imagine but find solace in that you are reunited with your beloved.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kent include numerous friends, neighbors, and family.

Kent was preceded in death by his parents, and his husband, John Reinheimer.

Kent’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and his in-home caregivers for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Joyce A. McClain

Joyce A. McClain, age 86, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:25 p.m., on Monday, January 16, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Joyce’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Friday, January 20, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church, 1684 Iowa Street, with Pastor Stephanie Ells officiating.  Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Galena, Illinois.

Joyce was born on December 27, 1936, in Galena, Illinois, daughter of William and Edna (Bainbridge) Dayton.

She married Robert T. McClain on February 12, 1955, in Galena.  Joyce was employed at A&P Tea Company and H&R Block for 15 years each.  She was a member of First Presbyterian Church where she served as a Deacon.  Joyce enjoyed camping, crafts, and trying new recipes.
Those left to cherish Joyce’s memory include

her son,
David (Christine) McClain, Peosta, IA;

a grandson,
Ryan R. McClain, Peosta, IA;

a step-granddaughter,
Taylor Rupp, Cuba City, WI;

and many nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, William (Lois) Dayton and Robert (Marian) Dayton; and 2 sisters, Ruth (Tony) Bein and Muriel (Dale) Bahr.

Joyce’s family would like to thank Dr. Kirkendall, the Staff at Eagle Pointe Place and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and all the compassionate care they provided for Joyce.

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

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

Thomas F. Breuch

Thomas Frederick Breuch, 81, of Oak Park Heights, MN, and formerly of Maquoketa, IA, died January 5, 2023, at the University of Minnesota Hospital (Minneapolis) during emergency heart surgery.

Tom was born to Frederick and Bernice Breuch (Hoverson) in Madison, WI, on July 3, 1941. He graduated from Madison West High School in 1959 and majored in Zoology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating in 1963.

After being drafted, Tom immediately enlisted in order to join the Army Medical Corps, and he received a direct commission as a Second Lieutenant in 1965.  As an officer he was stationed at Fort Sam Houston, TX, and at the 58th Missile Defense Unit based at Fort Snelling in Minneapolis until receiving orders for Vietnam in 1966. There he served as a Medical Platoon Leader and Executive Officer of field hospitals at Long Binh and An Khe, Vietnam, from October, 1966 to October, 1967.  Upon return to the United States, he was assigned to Fort Leonard Wood, and was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain in March of 1968.

Tom met Carol Shumate in Minneapolis in 1966. They were married August 17, 1968, in Davenport, IA.

After graduating from the University of Iowa School of Law in 1971, Tom joined the law practice of Schoenthaler, Schoenthaler & Roberg in Maquoketa, IA.  He opened his own office in 1976 and was a sole practitioner in Maquoketa until retirement in 2013.  In addition to counseling his own clients, he served as the Jackson County Juvenile Court Judge for several years and was the City Attorney for several small towns around Maquoketa.

He served on Boards of Trustees for the Maquoketa Utility Board, Maquoketa YMCA and Maquoketa Art Experience, providing legal counsel at their inceptions.  He was also a member of the Board of the Maquoketa Area Foundation, and for more than 40 years served on the Maquoketa Library Board of Trustees.  Tom was a long-time member of the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.

Devoted to his family, he especially delighted in his four grandchildren; he and Carol recently relocated from Iowa to Minnesota in order to be closer to their family.  Tom loved talking to people about little things, big ideas and current events, and learning their stories. Tom had a wonderful sense of humor and a big laugh, an abundance of common sense, and was a friend to all.  As much as he loved the people and places where he lived, he was always “From Wisconsin,” from the lakes in Madison to the beaches in Door County. And, was a fan of the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers through thick and thin.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by wife Carol Shumate Breuch of Oak Park Heights, MN; sons Peter (Lee-Ann) of Arden Hills, MN, and Tyler (Toby) of Plymouth, MN, and grandchildren Emily and Coen, Violet and Lucy; sister and brother-in-law Barbara and Richard Weaver of Madison, WI, brother- and sister-in-law Craig and Nancy Shumate of Seattle, WA; nieces and nephews Karen Bex (Robert), David Weaver (Tami), Mark Weaver (Lisa), Rachel Koller (Izaak),and Jaclyn Held (Peter); five great-nieces and two great-nephews.

Celebration of Life Services will take place on January 28, 2023, at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church (1660 County B Road W, Roseville, MN; visitation at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m., with a lunch to follow). An additional service will be scheduled later this spring in Maquoketa, IA. The ashes will be interred at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison, WI.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation in Tom’s name to the charity of your choice, or to:  Maquoketa Library Foundation, https://www.maquoketa.lib.ia.us/, Maquoketa Art Experience, https://maquoketa-art.org/, Maquoketa Area Family YMCA Annual Campaign, https://www.ymcaimv.org/maquoketa/, Jackson County Veterans’ Memorial Park, Steve Lucke, 11823 Hwy 62, Maquoketa, IA 52060, or the Maquoketa United Church of Christ, www.maqucc.org/

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family locally.  Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

William J. Heiderscheit

William J. Heiderscheit, 85 of Dyersville and formerly of Luxemburg, passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 pm on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 am prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in Holy Trinity Cemetery in Luxemburg where military honors will be accorded.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Bill was born on November 12, 1937, in Luxemburg, Iowa, the son of William and Martha (Schneider) Heiderscheit Sr.  He served in the US Army from 1959 – 1961 as a welder and auto mechanic spending 1 ½ years in Fairbanks, Alaska.  After his release from the Army, Bill returned home to farm with his brother, Robert, for 35 years in the Luxemburg area.

On June 26, 1987, Bill married Claudia Sue Phipps at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg.  Together they loved taking road trips and getting lost throughout their travels.  For many years Bill was a volunteer for the Holy Trinity Confirmation Program, Oak Crest Manor and Mercy Hospital in Dyersville, receiving recognition for over 1000 hours worked.  He was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters Court 881, St. Francis Xavier Parish, and former member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg.

Survivors include 15 nieces and nephews: Karen Nieman, Lois Heiderscheit, Diane Brown, Donna Fenton, Mike, Pat, Ken, Mark, David and Marvin Heiderscheit, Mark, Jason and Chad Boker, Josh Phipps, Katie Melcher; in-laws: Ann Heiderscheit of Dyersville and Margaret Heiderscheit of Dubuque, Ellen L. Boker of Otho, IA, Craig A. (Debra) Phipps of Waukon, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Claudia in 2012, parents-in-law, Warren and Lois (Siders) Phipps, brothers: Ken Heiderscheit and Robert Heiderscheit, nephews and niece: Dan Heiderscheit, Ron Heiderscheit and Brenda Heiderscheit.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hawkeye Care Center for their companionship and quality care shown toward Billy these last few years, and to 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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Robert J. Hauber

Robert John Hauber, 75, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Friday, January 20, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Robert will be 1:00 pm Friday, January 20, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Elder Philip “Lev” Leverentz officiating.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Robert was born September 27, 1947, in Dubuque, the son of Cletus William and Dorothy Theresa Robinson Hauber.

Bob was a U.S. Marine, serving in Vietnam.  He took pride in repairing amtracs for the soldiers in the field.  He was proud to serve his county. Bob retired from John Deere Dubuque Works in supply management. He began his career in the experimental department on machinery and later in supply management as a buyer, and then moving to special assignments for John Deere. Bob was an avid golfer and loved to fish.  He could tell you where to find fish anywhere on the Mississippi River. He loved animals, especially a cat named Boots.  She was a big part of his life.

Bob’s greatest friend was and is Jesus.  He asked Him to be his Savior and his soul is with Jesus today. Someday when his body is resurrected and made new, reunited with his soul, he will spend eternity with God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit and all those who have placed their faith in Jesus to be their Savior.  What a testament to his faith.  His life was based on truth, faith and family. Bob was salt and light to a dark world.  He could talk for hours and most importantly about Jesus. He demonstrated an unconditional love. When Bob was your friend, he was your friend forever. He would do anything and everything for you.

Survivors include sisters, Julie Smith of Dubuque, IA, and Liz (Jeffrey) Running of Aitkin, MN; sister-in-law, Donna Hauber of Dubuque, IA; many nieces and nephews; special friend, Karen Buerger of Dubuque, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kathryn (Jerry) Kramer; brother, Richard Hauber; and nephew, William Smith.

The family would like to thank Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care of Bob.

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Robert’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Lori A. Helmle

Lori Ann Helmle, 54 of Bellevue, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by family while listening to Elvis on Monday, January 16th at 1:55pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, January 21st, 2023, at St. Joseph Church in Bellevue with Fr. Robert Gross officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation for Lori will begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Lori was born on January 17, 1968, in Dubuque Iowa the daughter of Donald J. Helmle and Mary E. (Haxmeier) Helmle. She attended Bellevue public high school and graduated from Maquoketa High School, class of 1989. She worked for DAC INC. in Maquoketa Iowa for 20 plus years and member of the Special Olympics.

Lori loved Elvis, dancing and singing. She enjoyed participating in the special Olympics, she always loved a good competition. Facetiming her family and friends was always her favorite part of her day. She loved swimming at family get togethers, anything Iowa Hawkeyes and every NFL team, at one point or another. She loved being a sister, aunt, and cousin. She enjoyed writing and organizing her room. She liked to go bowling and out to the bars while drinking one of her famous kiddie cocktails.

She is survived by her brothers: Dennis Helmle (Vicki) of Bernard Iowa, Gary Helmle of Bellevue Iowa, Roger Helmle (Kathy) of Ward Arkansas, Steve Helmle (Cindy) of Bellevue Iowa, Randy Helmle (LuAnn) of Dubuque, Joe Helmle (David Pereira) of Davenport Iowa, and Donald Helmle Jr (Cherri) of La Motte. Her sister Donna Olson (Todd) of Glendale Arizona and brother-in-law Terry Gaherty of Dubuque.

She had a special bond with all her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Lori was preceded in death by her father, Donald J. Helmle; her mother, Mary E. (Haxmeier) Helmle; her sister, Sharon Gaherty; maternal grandparents, Louis & Catherine Haxmeier; paternal grandparents, Joseph & Mary Helmle along with many aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers a Lori Ann Helmle memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank all of the health care professionals, caregivers and nurses that cared for Lori for several years especially the comfort care nurses and doctors from Genesis East in Davenport Iowa. We would also like to make a special thank you to Patti Perkins, for everything that she has done with Lori over the years in DeWitt.

Jason Kevern

Jason “Shorty” Kevern, 49 of Galena, IL passed away unexpectedly Monday, January 16, 2023. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. A private family burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born December 23, 1973, in Dubuque, IA the son of Ronald “Shorty” and Carol (White) Kevern. He graduated from Galena High with the class of 1992. Shorty worked for the Galena Territory Association for thirty-two years. He was a huge University of Michigan sports fan and enjoyed watching and following sports with his boys, playing golf, and target shooting. Shorty will always be remembered as the life of the party.

He is survived by his three boys, Riley, Braden, and Caleb, his stepmom, Kym Kevern, and three sisters, Kelly (Artie) Arachikavitz, Jodi (Tim) Knautz, and Amanda Kevern (Jimmy Berg) all of Galena.

Shorty was preceded in death by his parents, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family requests no flowers. A memorial fund has been established at Illinois Bank and Trust for his three sons.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Donald L. Stadel

Donald L. Stadel, age 70, of Elizabeth, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2023, as the result of accidental drowning in the Mississippi River near Ferry Landing, rural Galena, IL.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 21, 2023, at the Scales Mound United Methodist Church, with Rev. Libby Rutherford officiating.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound and from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

Don was born on September 9, 1952, at Shullsburg, WI, the son of Raymond L. and Mary Ann (Werner) Stadel. He was a graduate of Scales Mound High School, the class of 1970.

Don was united in marriage to Sheri M. Smith on October 11, 2014 his companion of 21 years.

Don owned and operated Territory Construction Company until his retirement.

He loved fishing, ice fishing, spending time at his cabin on the Mississippi River and his dogs.

Surviving is his wife, Sheri; two sons, Brandon (Amber) Stadel of Asbury, IA and Barret (Candace) Stadel of San Diego, CA, his four step-children, Luke (Misty) Gille of Springtown, TX, Josh (Ryann) Gille of Burleson, TX, April Snyder of Lovettsville, VA and Sterling (Victoria) Willbanks of Elizabeth, IL; 15 grandchildren; his siblings, Sharon Webster of Scales Mound, IL, Gary (Carla) Stadel, Debbie Walters and Donna (Keith) Gerlich all of Elizabeth; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Mary Ann; and brothers-in-law, Ron Webster and Randy Walters.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s name to the Safe Haven Animal Shelter in Elizabeth, IL.

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

Dr. Joseph Terry

Dr. Joseph Terry passed away quickly and peacefully on January 3, 2023, at his home with his wife Pat and his son Jim beside him. Joe was born on May 22, 1927, in Davenport Iowa to Colonel Clyde and Marie (Hunter) Terry. He and his three brothers were raised by their mother and grandmother Mary Sanders Hunter. He graduated from Davenport High school, served one year in the Navy at the end of World War II, and went on to Saint Ambrose College and Iowa State College to attain his DVM degree in 1952.

Joe married Pat Terry on August 13th, 1949, at St John’s Methodist Church in Davenport. Pat taught in the Ames area for 3 years while Joe finished his degree. They moved to the Evanston/Wilmette, Illinois area to practice veterinary medicine for 40 years. Joe’s love for animals was reflected in his thoughtful care of pets, including exotics, at his practice (Terry Animal Hospital in Wilmette), his volunteer work at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, and his wide range of family pets.

Joe and Pat’s lifelong appreciation of music was integral in their first meeting and falling in love while members of the 7th-grade string quartet. Their participation in the Tri-City Orchestra, ISC Orchestra, Evanston Symphony, NISOM Community Orchestra, and the Grace Church Choir lifted the hearts of the communities in which they performed.

Joe’s wishes for all living things’ well-being informed his interactions with everyone he met. From driving local people – especially mothers with babies and small children – to medical and dental appointments to his service in Lions Club, Rotary International (Paul Harris Fellow), and many charitable contributions.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his daughter, Robin (Patrick) Malone, of Evanston, sons James (Jennifer) Terry, of Hanover, IL, and Mark (Francis) Terry of Kennebunkport, ME, 11 grandchildren, Ruadhri (Danielle Deschaine), Liam, Máire, Fiona (Tim Cronin), Brídín Malone, Síle, Caitríona, Ryan, Alasdair, Max (Hilary Godin) Terry, Madelyn Terry and three great-grandchildren, River, Millena and Whitney Terry. He was preceded in death by his parents, two older brothers, Jack and Jim, and younger brother Jay.

There will be a memorial service for Joe at Grace Episcopal Church, 107 South Prospect Street, Galena, Illinois at 10 AM, Thursday, January 26, 2023.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Dr. Paul G. Pechous

Dr. Paul G. Pechous, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Stonehill Health Center on Friday, January 13, 2023.  

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 21st, 2023, at St. Raphael Cathedral.  

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 21st at St. Raphael Cathedral with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale, officiating. Entombment will follow in St. Joseph Chapel Mausoleum at Mount Olivet Cemetery.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Paul was the oldest of five children born to George and Celeste (Lynch) Pechous on April 29th, 1932, in Iowa City, Iowa. He attended a one-room schoolhouse through eighth grade, followed by St. Patrick’s High School in Iowa City, IA. He graduated from St. Ambrose College where he did his pre-medical studies. While in college at St. Ambrose, he met his future wife Nancy, and they were married on June 25th, 1955.  

After graduating from St Ambrose, he went on to the University of Iowa medical school, graduating in 1958. After medical school, he joined the United States Public Health Service, eventually completing a residency in Ophthalmology. Much of his time in the Public Health Service was spent in New Orleans. One of his highlights was spending six weeks in the North Atlantic as a ship’s surgeon on a Coast Guard cutter. Paul was honorably discharged from the Public Health Service in 1967 having achieved the rank of Commander.  

He and Nancy then moved their family to Dubuque to start his private practice in Ophthalmology. His Ophthalmology career began in 1967, continuing until he retired in 2014.  

Paul served as President of the Dubuque County Medical Society, the Mercy Hospital Medical Staff, and the Xavier Hospital Medical Staff. He spent many years as the Dubuque local physician representative for Mercy Hospital’s Corporation.  

In addition to his involvement in the medical community, Paul served in other areas, including several terms on the Board of Directors for Clarke University. He was active with Dubuque County Right to Life and St Raphael Cathedral, where he was a member for 32 years. He was a volunteer pallbearer with St Vincent DePaul Society, a member of the Serra Club, and a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jesus. 

Paul and Nancy loved to see the world. Their travels took them to the Holy Land, Thailand, Japan, Canada, and Europe. They spent over 20 years wintering in Naples, Florida. Family vacations were especially important to Paul and Nancy. They took their children on trips throughout the United States during their lifetime. 

In addition to traveling, Paul’s hobbies and passions included being an avid collector of Dubuque history and memorabilia, collecting clocks, the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, theater-especially Broadway musicals, gourmet cooking, genealogy, reading, and gardening (you could take the boy out of the farm, but you couldn’t take the farm out of the man). Swimming was not one of his hobbies; Paul claimed to be the only member of his St Ambrose graduating class not required to pass the school swim test. 

Living on the bluff in Dubuque was a dream of Paul’s. He fulfilled this dream and was able to start each day watching the Mississippi River roll along from his home on the bluff.  

Paul was preceded in death by Nancy just 37 days prior to his own. They had been married for 67 years.  

He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Ed Pechous and Raymond Pechous, his sister Mary Ellen (Nicky) Irving, and granddaughter Brianna Pechous. 

Paul is survived by his 6 children, Bryan (Krynn) of Dubuque, Iowa; Stephen of Las Vegas, Nevada; Carol (Edward) McEleney of Iowa City, Iowa; John of Dubuque, Iowa; Robert (Sandy) of Indio, California; and Annette (David) Barton of Dubuque, Iowa; his sister Margaret Goss; brothers-in-law Jerry Irving, Tom Bryant, and Bill Saunders, and his sisters-in-law Marilyn Pechous and Mary Pechous. 

Paul is also the proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren, Christina (Rick), Paul (Sarah), Creighton (Sarah), Alexander (Calla), Devin (Brett), Bianca, Briana (deceased), Melina, Karina, George, Charlie, Elena, and nine great-grandchildren. 

Memorial donations can be made to The Dubuque Symphony Orchestra and Dubuque County Right to Life. 

Mary Carson Ehrlich

Mary Carson (Hill) Ehrlich, 80, 14910 Wirt St. Omaha, NE, went home to be with the Lord at 6:24PM Friday November 25, 2022, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha.

Services will be held at 10a.m. Saturday January 21, 2023, at Arbor Oaks Church on Kennedy Road, followed by a graveside prayer service at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, IA. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Mary was born in Prairie du Chien, WI on June 20, 1942, daughter of William and Irene (Bacon) Hill. She moved to Dubuque, IA with her family at a young age. Mary attended Senior High School and graduated with the class of 1960. Mary was married to Loras A. Ehrlich on January 20, 1962. Together they had one son, William. Mary worked on the earliest computers brought to industry as a programmer for Interstate Power Company where she retired after 20 years of service. She lived in Dubuque, IA for most of her life, although for the past 14 years she lived in Omaha, NE.

Mary was a born-again Christian and was a member of Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel for many years before moving to Omaha. She was a good friend to many, and they will all attest that she had a wonderful sense of humor. She highly valued Christian education, and on one occasion paid the tuition of a needy student at Emmaus Bible College.

Mary enjoyed planting trees and mowing the grass of her large yard at her Dubuque home. She had several flower and plant gardens where many hours were spent carefully tending, weeding, and making beautiful arrangements. In the winter she loved to plow snow off the driveway on her John Deere lawn tractor. Mary was involved in many organizations: Dubuque Kennel Club, Beta Sigma Phi, Iowa Federation of Handweavers and Spinners, and Sarasponda Spinners.

After moving to Omaha Mary took part in numerous weaving classes. She focused on her weaving, completing many beautiful projects and inspiring others to “keep at it”. Mary was a treasured member of the Omaha Spinners and Weavers Guild and the Covenant Presbyterian Church Circle. She taught classes and organized events to help raise awareness of and keep interest in that unique art.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, William and Irene Hill, and her husband Loras A. Ehrlich (Dec. 27, 1996).

Mary is survived by her son, William Alan Ehrlich (Stephanie Robertson); granddaughter, Molly Hayden Ehrlich; sister, Garlyn Leigh Saupe (David Saupe); nephew, Micheal D. Saupe (Lori); niece, Janet M. Wilson (Steven).

Michele Knief-Nemmers

It is with broken hearts that the family of Michele Knief-Nemmers, 58, announce her unexpected passing, due to a hemorrhagic stroke at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, on January 13, 2023 surrounded by all of her loved ones.

Please join Michele’s family in a celebration of her life with a visitation on Thursday, January 19th from 3-7 pm at Leonard Funeral home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at Resurrection church on Friday January 20th at 10:30 am. with Fr. Phillip Gibbs officiating.  Burial will follow in Mount Calvary cemetery.

She was born on May 16, 1964 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Robert and Ella (Kunkel) Tigges. Michele married Timothy Nemmers on February 24, 2006 in Negril, Jamaica. He preceded her in death on February 11, 2020. She worked for the University of Dubuque College as an Administration Assistant.

Michele lived her life by the motto “live life to the fullest.” She always made sure that her two daughters experienced everything they could while she was here. One thing she always told them was “you can be anything you want to be and do anything you want to do when you grow up.” Michele made sure she photographed every single thing that happened throughout her life. Everything from beautiful vacations down to the frozen margaritas she would have on a Saturday night, only complete with an umbrella straw. Summertime, the beach, and the pool will forever be her favorite past time. One of the most important things to Michele was a hug, she never left any gathering without hugging every person there, to make sure everyone knew that she loved them. Her and her daughters always had a group hug every time they left each other.

Michele will forever be missed by her two daughters Megan Nemmers and Justine Knief (Wes Dunn). Grand puppies Ava, Nelson, and Brooksen. Parents Robert and Ella “Pat” Tigges. Siblings Mike (Aletha) Tigges, Maureen (Rob) Kemp, and Robert Tigges. In-laws Mark and Judy Nemmers. Sister’s in-law Lori Hopperstad and Angie (Kevin) Kluesner. As well as her beloved godson Gage Kemp. Niece’s and nephew’s, Caitlin, Leith, Drake, Paige, Sarah, Alec, Evan, Kate, Grace, and Connor.

Timothy J. Otting

Timothy J. Otting, 71, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Friday, January 13, 2023 at his home in Cascade.

The Tim Otting family will greet family and friends from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Friday, January 20, 2023 with a memorial service immediately following at 11 a.m. at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.   The Reiff Funeral Home is  assisting the family with arrangements.

Tim was born February 19, 1951, in Cascade, Iowa son of Herbert “Chub” and Mildred (Cigrand) Otting. He was a 1969 graduate of the former Aquin High School in Cascade. He was united in marriage to Betty Melloy on June 30, 1972, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore. Tim worked as a welder for John Deere for 42 years, until his retirement.

Tim was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa. He was also a groundskeeper for the Calvary Cemetery for several years. Tim was a “jack of all trades”, an expert craftsman who enjoyed creating all things made of wood, including his own urn. He also enjoyed endless hours outdoors caring for the parish cemetery and tending to his backyard garden. For a large part of his life, you could find him with a cold beer in his hand and a huge smile on his face. He always had a hefty, heartfelt greeting, usually calling friends and family by a nickname he chose for them. His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed attending their sporting events and they always knew he was there when they could hear him whistling from the stands.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Otting of Cascade, one son, Nate (Dawn) Otting of Cascade, one daughter, Katie (Ryan) Demmer of Epworth; seven grandchildren, Logan, Mason, and Brody Otting, Ava, Eli, Chloe and Stella Demmer; three sisters, Kathryn (Bill) Barden of Mesa, AZ, Ruth Gjerde of Albany CA, and Vickie (Dan) Kelchen of Cascade; brothers and sisters-in[1]law, Linda Melloy of Dubuque, Jane (Les) Homan of Rochester, MN, Lisa Melloy, and Jerry (Sara) Melloy, both of Bernard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ken “Ozzie” Otting, sister, Judy Kalishek, his father and mother-in-law, John and Mary Carlyn Melloy, and three brothers-in-law, Jon Gjerde, Jim Melloy and Dan “Shep” Melloy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to the Above and Beyond Hospice Organization for their wonderful care, and special thanks to Tim’s nurse, Megan for always putting a smile on his face.

Rita M. Arlen

Rita M. Arlen, 94, of Dubuque, died Sunday, January 15, 2023, at her son’s home in Zwingle.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rita will be 11:00 am Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rita was born March 28, 1928, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Vernon) Link.

She was a 1946 graduate of Immaculate Conception High School.  Rita worked for the telephone company and then for Loras College in housekeeping for 13 years.  She was a member of Holy Spirit – Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She enjoyed making doll clothing for craft fairs, reading books, playing cards, especially Canasta, puzzles, traveling, mostly to Texas and California, and going to casinos.

Survivors include three sons, Steven (Ruth) Arlen of Zwingle, IA, Michael Arlen of Dubuque, and Richard (Rachel) Arlen of San Jacinto, CA; six daughters, Leann Arlen of Dubuque, Kay (Dave) Hawkins of Anaheim Hills, CA, Diane (Eric) Collar of Ontario, CA, Laurie (Terry) Wehrspann of Sherrill, IA, Jean Arlen of Bullhead, AZ, Karen (Dean) Gaul of Epworth, IA; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter, Jessica Collar, two sisters, Lorraine (Richard) Shireman and Marian (Francis) Brosius, and one brother, Robert Link.

The family would like to thank the team at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Buffy, Nicole, and Sarah, for their special care.

A memorial has been established.

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

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