Obituaries Archive

Connie Hillard-Lessei

Connie Hillard-Lessei, 84, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at the Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 3,2022 at the Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. Burial will be at the Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Constance Ann daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Neidig) Sutter was born on January 2, 1938 at the Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, IA. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School with the Class of 1956 and then attended Northeast Community College. She married Richard “Dick” Hillard on March 22, 1957. The couple was blessed with five children Richard, Vicky, Michael, Lynn and Theodore. The couple later divorced. Later in life Connie married Antonio Lessei and the family grew to include his children Lisa, Dean and Steven.

Connie raised her family on the 2300 blk of Washington by Comisky Park and she later helped her husband run Antonio’s Tap on the corner of Hwy 52 and JFK. She enjoyed working as an Avon rep in the Dubuque area and was a member of the Avon President’s Club for many years as a top salesperson in her region. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially going camping and fishing. She loved going on vacations and excursions, especially warm tropical destinations. Her passion was her vegetable garden and sharing all her produce with family and friends. She always enjoyed a trip to the Casino. Most of all she loved her family and grandkids, and she was known to all as “Gam”.

Connie is preceded in death by her father Tom Sutter and mother Elizabeth Sutter.

Connie is survived by children Richard “Rick” Hillard of Dubuque, Vicky Every and fiancé Fred Becker of Cassville, WI, Michael “Mike” Hillard and his spouse Karen of Dubuque, Lynn Hillard and her spouse Carlene of Bernard, IA, Theodore “Ted” Hillard of Muscatine, IA; 6 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Darlene Dyer and brother Tom Sutter and his spouse Rita all of Dubuque; Antonio Lessei of Dubuque; other relatives and a host of many friends.

Richard C. Dupont

Richard C. “Dick” Dupont, 86, of Dubuque, formerly of Sherrill, died Thursday, July 28, 2022, at his home.

A prayer service will be held at 1:30 pm Sunday, July 31, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Dick will be 10:00 am Monday, August 1, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.

Richard was born August 12, 1935, in Sageville, IA, the son of Wilfred “Bill” and Alice Reinsbach Dupont. He was raised in Sherrill where he spent most of his life. On November 3, 1956, he married Marlene Ann Wolf at St. Clements Church in Bankston, Iowa. She died January 26, 2019.

Dick worked at Dubuque Pack, FDL Foods, and Farmland for 46 1/2 years moving through several departments before retiring in 2000.

He was a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, a 50+ year member of Sherrill Catholic Order of Foresters, and served on the Board of Directors for the Sherrill Fire Department for 35 years. He loved sports and baseball was his life. He played 25 years of semipro baseball in Dubuque County and was recognized in the Dubuque County Hall of Fame in 1990. He coached teams and attended his children’s, grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s baseball games and many semipro baseball games. His favorite teams were the NY Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes and Green Bay Packers. In his later years, he enjoyed playing golf with the guys every Wednesday. He also enjoyed reading, puzzles, Euchre, and daily walks. He and his wife loved to travel together and had visited every U.S. state besides Hawaii and Alaska. He was a dedicated and loving husband. He sat with Marlene all day, every day for the year she spent at Stonehill Care Center.

Survivors include his three children, Robert (Joan) Dupont of Dubuque, Kathy (Kent) Culbertson of Sherrill, and Daniel (Tammy) Dupont of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Becky (Jason) Cornwall, Adam (Kristy) Dupont, Melissa (Dan Rommelfanger) Dupont, Jason (Jayme) Culbertson, Jeremy (Megan) Culbertson, Nick Dupont, and Alex Dupont; 13 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Hilda Dupont and Jeanette Brimeyer, both of Sherrill; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, his father- and mother-in-law, George and Mary Wolf, one brother, James Dupont, two sisters-in-law, Doris Wolf and Ardella (Ernzen) Connolly, and four brothers-in-law, Frank Connolly, Ray Ernzen, Merlin Brimeyer, and George “Nicky” Wolf.

In lieu of flowers, 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 Dick’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Gene B. Meyer

Gene B. “Skip” Meyer, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on July 26th, 2022, at home.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 27th, 2022, at the American Legion Hall on Delhi Street with times to be announced. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

Skip was born on April 3rd, 1943, in Osterdock, Iowa, son of Elmer C. and Marie (Schultz) Meyer.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life Lyn Cornelius on September 14th, 1968, at Grandview Methodist Church in Dubuque, Iowa. He repaired electronic organs for “Renier’s Music House,” “Ken Mott Piano and Organ Company,” and “Martin’s House of Pianos & Organs.” He was a member of the Great River Amateur Radio Club and Tri-State Modeler’s club.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne Division and the Ethiopia Mapping Mission. He also served in the Vietnam War and was a member of Dubuque’s American Legion Post #6.

He loved his wife, children, grandkids, great grandkids, his cat Henry, his Harley Davidson motorcycle, and especially his flight simulator.

He is survived by his wife, Lyn, and their children: Shelly (Les) Ware, Marc (Julie) Meyer, Aric Meyer, Chad (Barb) Meyer, Sheri (Melesio) Pilar, Scott Meyer, Todd (Danielle) Meyer, and Shayla (Chuck) Schmitz. He is also survived by grandchildren Holden Ware, Dylan Ware, Christian Dundee, Destiny Dundee, Michelle Meyer, Karissa (Sam) Puccio, Ashley (Mike) Buelow, Andrew Meyer, Antonio Pilar, Ella Iaun, Isabelle Meyer, Luciana Meyer, and Rylee Schmitz, and great grandchildren Ade, Mazie, K.K., J.J., Cohen, Avery, Ryan, Zachary, Sophia, Braxton, and Penelope.

He was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Marie, sister Janice Smith, and his grandparents William and Anna (Kickbush) Meyer.

In lieu of flowers a Gene B. Meyer Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara L., also to the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics especially the cancer center, the Iowa City VA Hospital, MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, and his telehealth nurse Jaime for all their wonderful care, compassion and kindness.

Deb Burkart

Deb Burkart, 61, was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on July 27, 2022, after putting up a courageous fight against cancer. She was in the presence of family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022 at St. Joseph Church Key West with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 1st, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:45 p.m.

Deb was born September 7, 1960 to the proud parents, Mel and Rita Schuster of Dubuque. She went to school at St. Columbkille and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Shortly after graduating, she married and started a family, welcoming four beautiful children. In 2003, she was married to Dave Burkart, who would become the love of her life. After adding Dave’s 4 children, bringing the total number of kids in the family to 8.

Deb was the epitome of a hardworking, self-made woman. She valued family, friends, and exploring the world. You could always find Deb having dinner with friends, organizing a family gathering, or planning her next vacation. She was a huge Chicago Cubs fan and tugged her family along for endless trips to Chicago to see the Cubs play, always wearing her Cubs floppy hat. Deb would jump at the opportunity to go to a musical or play to get some “culture”. She showed her family the importance of working hard and taking every opportunity to travel the world. She loved creating experiences and making memories with her family and friends.

Deb loved deeply and fiercely; her love was something you could feel the moment you walked into the room. Family was the utmost priority in her life.

Deb was survived by her husband Dave; her children Sarah (Matthew) Schultes of Cedar Falls, Jason (Rachel) Burkart, Josh (Tiffany Russel) Burkart, and Jake (Sam Ondrashek) Burkart of Dubuque; her bonus children Jeremy Burkart of Dubuque, Chad Burkart of Dubuque, Linsay (Frederick) Nsengimana of Marion, and Stephanie (Jordan) Duve of Peosta; grandchildren Will and Emily Schultes; Ember, Kolvin, and Jaylin Burkart; Joslyn, Cecelia, and Lydia Burkart; Annalise Burkart; Kinnick, Corbin, and Harper Burkart; Bruce and Brice Nsengimana; and Owen, Even, and Delanie Duve; siblings Dan (Tamara) Schuster, Ann (Tony) Wolf, and Steve (Ann) Schuster.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

To say that Deb was greatly loved in this life would be the understatement of the century. There are not words to explain the connection between her and her family. It was beautiful.

In lieu of flowers, a Deb Burkart Memorial Fund has been established.

Lois Sweeney

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Nana, sister, friend, Lois Sweeney, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, on Wednesday, July 27, 2022.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, the Church of the Resurrection with Very Rev. Philip Gibbs officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:45 p.m.

Lois was born in St. Catherine’s, Iowa, on February 12, 1936, to Bendina and Louis Manders. She was raised in Bernard, Iowa and graduated from St. Patrick’s School, Garryown, IA.  During this time, she met the love of her life, Joseph Jude Sweeney, and together they enjoyed 60 years of marriage, raising their family, and living in many homes throughout Dubuque County. Their love for each other was an inspiration for their daughters and those who knew them.

Lois was most proud of her family and owning and operating “Lois’ Custom Draperies”. Many of the draperies she made are still hanging in the Dubuque area today. She loved to play cards and was a member of 2 different card clubs for over 50 years. She was also a member of Resurrection Catholic Church, Dubuque, IA.   She loved music and loved to dance; however, she is best known by her family for her famous cinnamon rolls.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Jill (Joe) Ungs, Julie (Lyle) Daughetee, Tara (Steve) Sisbach, Sandy (Wes) Siebe, Tammie (Bryan) Aivazian, Brenda (Ed) Evans, Glenda (Randy) Zeismer; thirteen grandchildren, Kennedy Keil Van Cleve, Mackenzie Keil, Aaron Daughetee, Logan Daughetee, Tristan Sisbach Waters, Alyssa Siebe Wiezorek, Hannah Siebe Moore, Reed Aivazian, Grant Aivazian, Rebekah Evans Moor, Brian Evans, Ryan Zeismer; 18 great grandchildren; 4 siblings, Patty (Fritz) Ames, Mary (David) Jacobsmeyer, Charlotte (Tom) Pfeiffer, Butch (Pat) Manders; sisters-in-laws, Sister Marian Sweeney PBVM, Lu Roth; brother-in-law, Ray (Chris) Sweeney; many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Jude, parents, Louis and Bendina Manders, parent-in-laws, Joseph and Irene Sweeney, and beloved grandson, Chad.

The family would like to thank all our extended family, friends, neighbors, and the nurses and staff of Oak Park Place and Hospice of Dubuque for all your kindness and support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of Dubuque or Parkinson’s research.

Leona Ginter

Leona “Pete” Ginter, 99, of Kieler, WI, passed away Tuesday evening, July 26, 2022, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 1, 2022, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Kieler, with Very Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 1:40 p.m. Sunday. Friends may also call from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Pete was born on May 2, 1923, in East Dubuque, the daughter of Joseph N. and Odelia (Hendricks) Bonnet. She was united in marriage to Vernon Kuhle on June 3, 1947.  He preceded her in death suddenly on October 13, 1949.  She later married Roman “Bud” Ginter on June 18, 1966. He preceded her in death on March 9, 2011.

Pete was employed in the bindery department at W. C. Brown Publishing Company until her retirement. She enjoyed cutting grass, working in the yard, cleaning, Cooking and Baking.

Pete was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish and the Council of Catholic Women.

Surviving is a special niece, Doris Spahn, two nephews, Lloyd Sherman and Russell Ginter, and the rest of her nephews and nieces.

Pete was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Odelia, four sisters, Mary, Pearl and Rita Bonnet, Ida (Joseph) Sherman, and three brothers, Walter (Verla) Bonnet, Oscar (Anise) Bonnet, Ralph (Delores) Bonnet, and the members of the Ginter family.

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

Laurel A. Baker

Laurel A. Baker, 75, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday evening, July 27, 2022.

A public visitation celebrating her life will be held on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at East Iron Hill Community Church, rural Maquoketa, with private burial in the church cemetery.

Laurel Ann Miller was born on November 17, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Elmer and Grace (Sagers) Miller.  She attended East Iron Hill country school and then graduated from Maquoketa High School.  She married Milo Baker Jr. on June 1, 1963 at Salem Lutheran Church in Spragueville, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Mike, Jeff and Beth.

Laurel had been a farm wife all her married life and had also worked outside the home for 23 years as a secretary for Innovative Ag Services in Andrew, Iowa.  In retirement, she babysat her great grandbabies.

Laurel was an active member of the East Iron Hill Community Church, serving as past president of the church board of directors.  She also had served as the East Iron Hill Cemetery Association president and sexton for several years.

Laurel loved babies and enjoyed taking care of them!  She cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She also loved to cook for her family and gather them together, as well as listen to music, dancing and singing.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Milo Baker Jr. of Maquoketa, IA; children, Mike (Darla) Baker of Maquoketa, IA, Jeff (Sherry) Baker of Maquoketa, IA, and Beth (Scott) Sterk of Sterling, IL; brother David (Janet) Miller of Maquoketa, IA; 7 grandchildren, Brandi (Ryan) Duhme, Josh (Ali) Baker, Jeffrey (Kendra) Baker, Brianna (Billy) Kirk, Jayden (Tori) Baker, Anthony (Jane) Sterk and Makenzie (Kyle) Brinning

; and 10 great-grandchildren whom she loves “Forever and A Day”, Nolan, Peyton, Vinny, Jackson, Milo, Sawyer, William, Addi, Bonnie and Hayes, and one on the way.  She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Calvin and Donald, and a sister Marilyn Dietz.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or the East Iron Hill Community Church.

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

Patricia A. Broessel

Patricia Ann Broessel, 87, (Ms. Pat) of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 26th, 2022, at UnityPoint Health- Finley Hospital.

Family and friends may gather from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, July 29th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a sharing time will be held at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa on a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Patricia was born on February 22, 1935, daughter of William and Helen (Smith) McCoy. She was educated at Holy Trinity Catholic School. She was married to Robert Broessel on April 11, 1953, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque, Iowa. She worked as a waitress at Chateau Supper Club; Eagle Stores for ten years in the meat department. She later owned and operated two dress stores in Dubuque: “Patricia’s Bridal” with her sister Betty, and “Putting on the Ritz.” She also owned and operated Ms. Pat’s Corner Tap for 15 years.

She enjoyed going to Casino, and Mario’s Restaurant to meet up with her friends, but most of all spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children Robert “Bobby” (Linda) Broessel, Shelly (Tim) Bahl, and William “Woody” Broessel; her grandchildren Chris (Nikki Droessler) Broessel of Cuba City, WI, Anne (Ryan) Holzem of Sheboygan, WI, Theresa (Nick Addison) Broessel of Madison, WI, Jayme (Valerie) Bahl, Lizy Bahl( Chris Valentine), Jessica Broessel, Willie (Hannah) Broessel, Matt Broessel,  and Christine Hosch; her 14 great grandchildren with one on the way in September;  her sister Betty Griffin of Dubuque, and Colleen Mohr of East Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert on August 8th, 1975, son Michael on September 1987 and son Kirk “Curt” on February 25, 2009, parents William and Helen McCoy, her sister Marcella “Sally” Cain, and brothers-in-law Wesley Mohr, Robert Griffin and Donny Cain.

In lieu of flowers, a Patricia Broessel Memorial Fund will be established.

Loretta T. Donahue

Loretta T. Donahue, age 91, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 7:05 p.m., on Sunday, July 24, 2022, at Ennoble Manor.  To celebrate Lorretta’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Loretta was born on February 20, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of William and Loretta (Finn) Donahue.

Loretta was a very faith filled woman.  She has been a member of several Catholic churches throughout the years, but most recently has made St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque her parish.  She lived in California for 10 years and was honored to assist Mother Theresa with her work in Mexico.  When she was living in Iowa she was employed at the packing house, worked as a waitress in Cedar Rapids and as a nurses aide for 20 years at St. Anthony’s Home.  In her younger days, Loretta enjoyed roller skating, dancing and going swimming with her friends.  These past years she has spent countless hours praying for, and saving lost souls.  Loretta’s faith was unwavering and she strived to use her God given gifts to help others.  She will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherished Loretta’s memory include

her sister,
Kathleen Walsh, Dubuque, IA;

her nieces and nephews,
Jamie (Fatima) Saffran, Maria (Dennis) Plasso, David Hagerty, Ronald (Debbie) Hagerty, Carrie (Don) Schmitt, Steve (Diane) Hagerty, William (Sharon) Hagerty, Kathy Hagerty, Jeanne Cottrell, Mary Martinez, Susan (Jim) Staggs, John (Heide) Hagerty, Michael (Angela) Hagerty, Gregory Walsh, Steven Walsh, Kevin Walsh, Susie (Dave) Huseman and Pamela (Tom) Jones;

and several great nieces and nephews.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Raymond Donahue, Louie Donahue, William Donahue, Coletta Hagerty and Mary Saffran; a nephew, Samson Saffran; a niece, Linda Dahlstrohm; and 2 nephews-in-law, Matt Cottrell and Pedro Martinez.

Loretta’s family would like to thank her long-time friends, Kristine & Jim Howard, for their friendship and care over the years.

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

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

Marie C. Valentine

Marie Catherine (Avenarius) Valentine, 99 of Dubuque, Iowa died peacefully, surrounded by her family on Tuesday, July 26th, 2022 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 1st at St Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Reverend Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, Iowa. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, July 31st at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. with a wake service at 4:45 p.m.

Marie was born April 30, 1923, in Dubuque, daughter of Edward and Alvina (Meyers) Avenarius. She married Edward M Valentine on October 18, 1944 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She attended school at Holy Ghost and IC Academy.  Marie moved from the North End of town to the Valentine family farm upon marriage and was the best homemaker around. Marie was an exceptional wife, mom, grandma, great grandma, great-great grandma, sister, sister-in-law, aunt and friend.

Marie was invaluable to her family and all who loved her. She was a charter member of St Joseph the Worker, served on parish council, and headed up the senior citizen program for 18 years.  She enjoyed being a member of the St Joe’s church choir, an usher, member of Farm Bureau and Catholic Knights. Marie was very talented and had a beautiful voice.  She sang at many grand childrens weddings, created beautiful crocheted pieces and priceless embroidered works of art. She never missed a birthday or anniversary with a card and a $2 bill.

Marie is survived by her children Bill (Sandy) Valentine, Mary Kay (Bob) Schauer, Gary (Becky Turner) Valentine and Shelly (Mike) Ellis; Daughters-in-law Marlene (Watters) Valentine and Janet Wolff; her grandchildren Jim Valentine, Amy (Dan Schmitt) Schmerbach, Laura (Jim) Hammel, Bobby (Meghan) Valentine, Steve (Stephanie) Valentine, Lisa Valentine, Randy (Kati) Valentine, Tracy (Marty) Goedken, Shannon (Rob) Leveridge, Robin (Chad) Hoffman, Bobby (Callie) Schauer, Megan (Miguel Gutierrez) Valentine, Matthew (Tatum Mays) Valentine, Samuel (Natasha Heeren) Valentine, Justin (Kaitlyn Russell) Waller, Andy (Gabby Felderman) Waller, Molly (David) Maro and Jakob (Emma Addison) Waller and Angie Valentine; great-grandchildren Brian and Nicole (Tyler Brown) Valentine, Amanda (Brenton) Benedict, Austin (Alana Cayro) Schmerbach, Nick (Ashley Kramer), Luke (Jessi), Mitchel, and Sydney Hammel, Rory, Nellie, Bear and Crosby Valentine, Sierra (Evan Straw), Sidney and Ashley Valentine, Emma (Jake Woodward), Will and Brady Powers, AJay, Owen, Easton and Luci Valentine, Kylie (Jakob Kirman), Aubrey, Peyton and Kinsley Goedken, Asher, Reuben, Caleb and Maggie Leveridge, Maya, Gavin, Cooper and Isaac Hoffman, Faith, Eddie, Isabelle, Wyatt and Blake Schauer; great-great grandchildren Ila Hammel, Charleigh and Parker Benedict; sister-in-law Rachel Avenarius along with 3 precious new additions on the way –  baby Maro, baby Hammel and baby Valentine.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Edward “Eddie” Valentine, son Ronald “Ronnie” Valentine, daughter-in-law Macy (Thome) Valentine, son-in-law Dale Waller, her brother Louie Avenarius; along with many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and a great grandson William Keith Valentine.

In lieu of flowers a Marie Valentine Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to offer a special thank you and will be forever grateful to Debbie with Home Instead for the love and care she provided, as well as Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeremiah and Barb for the comfort they provided Marie.

Vivian L. Quinn

PLEASE NOTE: Updated date due to unforeseen circumstances.

Vivian “Ditty” Louise Quinn, age 75, died in Ann Arbor, MI on July 14, 2022. She was born on October 10, 1946 to Leslie “Mooty” and Eugenia “Babe” Blitgen. Vivian was a 1965 graduate of Marquette High School and went on to attend Patricia Stevens Career College in Chicago, IL while also working at O’Hare International Airport. She then moved back to Iowa and worked for Interstate Power (Alliant Energy) until her retirement in 2009, with a brief three-year break to be a stay-at-home mom.

Her grandchildren will remember Vivian for her love of baking. They always looked forward to frosting and decorating sugar cookies when visiting. In her retirement, she expanded her decorating skills to cupcakes and enjoyed volunteering with St. Joseph’s daycare and hot lunch program. In her final years, she moved to Ann Arbor to be closer to her grandchildren.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, brother Nick Blitgen, and brother-in-law Dave Muhlenhaupt.

She is survived by her daughter, Bridget (Stephen) Maldonado of Ann Arbor, MI, grandchildren, Quinn and Oliver Maldonado of Ann Arbor, MI, and siblings Mary Muhlenhaupt, Bill Blitgen, Joe (Kathy) Bligten, Gigi (Bob) Reeg all of Bellevue, and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Friday, August 5 at 10:30 am, with a brief visitation at the church starting at 9:30 am. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The family would like to thank Susan at Brookdale Senior Living in Ann Arbor for her loving and attentive care over this past year.

Otto F. Wrabl

Otto F. Wrabl, a retired metalsmith, lithographer, and executive, died Tuesday, July 19, 2022, in hospice at Luther Manor, Dubuque, from complications of pneumonia. The 17-year resident of the Galena Territory was 86 years of age.

Mr. Wrabl, who emigrated to this country in 1952 and subsequently became a naturalized citizen, was born in Marburg-an-der-Drau (Maribor), Austria, to parents Franz and Juliana (Vertic) Wrabl in 1936. He was raised as an ethnic German. His childhood years were marked by the chaos of World War II, including seven years in a displaced person’s refugee camp. Soon after arriving in Gary, IN, Mr. Wrabl decided to settle in the Chicago suburbs. He took an entry-level position at Fuze-On Corporation in Mount Prospect, IL, and rose through the ranks to become vice-president. He was proud at the time of being able to afford, and acquire, one of the first (candy-red) Mustang sports cars. True to his roots, Mr. Wrabl organized a successful skiing club and was a member of the cultural organization Schwaben-Verein, where he played soccer and performed a traditional folk dance. Through these activities, he began dating Carol Gidel, a nurse. Otto and Carol fell in love and were married in 1962, eventually raising two sons in a new house in Buffalo Grove, IL, where they lived until 1985.

Prior to his 2005 Galena retirement, Mr. Wrabl lived in Marshfield, WI, and Joplin, MO, where he worked as a freelance metalsmith and supervisor for several companies. He was also a co-inventor on a 1977 patent for an innovative metal surface-coating method and started his own firm in the Chicago suburbs.

An avid fisherman and golfer, Mr. Wrabl greatly enjoyed skiing, family gatherings, German folk dancing, and ballroom dancing. His family remembers him as a fun-loving, practical gentleman who was always present when needed, with strong feelings for his favorite sports teams, including the Chicago Bears and Premier Soccer League. He and Carol were fortunate to have the opportunity to travel extensively, including trips to Peru, Egypt, and China. In a 2017 milestone trip, he returned to Slovenia with his family to visit the house where he was born. He loved his dogs Daisy and Pumpkin, who were loyal to the last. Mr. Wrabl was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service with burial will be held at Casper Creek Natural Cemetery.

In addition to his wife of 60 years, he is survived by his two sons, James (Julia), of Baltimore, MD, and Karl of Fairbanks, AK, one grandson Alex, and a sister, Edith Timmerman of Portage, IN, and one brother, Ewald “Butch” (Sue) Wrabl of Hobart, IN. Others left behind to cherish Otto’s memory are niece Linda (Mark) Timmerman Janovetz of Mukwonago, WI, and nephew Bill (Barbara) Timmerman of Portage, IN.

Mr. Wrabl was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and an infant son.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation, the Safe Haven Humane Society of Jo Daviess County, or the First Presbyterian Church of Galena.

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

Nancy J. Chapman

Nancy J. Chapman, of Asbury, died suddenly at home on Friday, July 22, 2022.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Thursday at Egelhof, Siegert, and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 J.F. Kennedy Road.  A wake service will be held at 4:00 pm. Mass of  Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am Friday at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. To view the livestream please visit, https://www.youtube.com/c/SaintAnthonyDubuque 

Nancy was born on February 16, 1938, daughter of Paul and Melinda (Hermes) Gleason.  She was the oldest of three children.  She attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School and graduated fromhigh school at St. Joseph Academy.  On June 18, 1960, Nancy married the love of her life, George Chapman at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Nancy got great joy from participating in the Barn Community Theater and singing with the Dubuque Chorale. She was also an avid reader, but her greatest blessing was her family.  She loved to gather her family all together and visit.  She especially enjoyed her grandchildren.

Nancy and George loved searching out antiques together.  They spent every wedding anniversary and an Autumn holiday each year in Door County.  They also spent 19 winters in Arizona escaping the Iowa cold.  They developed a large group of great Snow Bird friends there.

Nancy is survived by her five children:  Mark (Kelly) Chapman of Dubuque, Iowa and their children Zachary (Sara) Chapman and Samantha (Jake) Armour;  Scott Chapman of Oak View, CA and his children Randy (Jody) Chapman, Chelsea (Donald) Davidson and Colby Chapman; David (Laurie) Chapman of Phoenix, AZ and their children, Ryan Chapman, Kristin (Destiney Ryder) Chapman, and Alex (Christina Barry) Chapman; Amy (Thomas) Wagner of Asbury, IA and their children Andrew (Leah) Wagner, and Abby Wagner; and Nick Chapman of Asbury, IA and his children Haley, Chloe and Noah; seven great-grandchildren:  Kaylee, Hunter, Asher, Addison, Olivia, and Veda; and a sister-in-law, Sharon Landre. 

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, husband, George, her brother, Jack Gleason and her sister, Sandy Rich.

The family would like to express their thanks to the Asbury Volunteer EMTs and Fire Department, and Nancy’s special friend, Kathy Hamel, for their outstanding effort with Nancy on Friday night.

Susan J. Thome

Susan J. Thome, 68, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 23, 2022, at Mercy One Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Friday, July 29, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville, WI. A Latin Requiem Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Fr John Del Priore officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Susan was born on February 10, 1954, daughter of David and Esther (Steger) Thome.

She attended Holy Ghost Elementary School, Visitation Academy, and Wahlert High School. She completed a bachelor’s degree in economics from Clarke University in 1976. She was employed for many years in the hospitality industry at Timmerman’s Motor Inn, East Dubuque, Illinois, and Eagle Ridge Inn & Resort, Galena, Illinois. She was lastly employed at University of Dubuque Aviation as a dispatcher.

Susan was a devout Catholic. She attended daily mass for most of her life and participated in Eucharist Adoration regularly. She was active in the Legion of Mary at St. Patrick’s Church for many years and spent countless hours at the Power of Prayer Chapel in Dubuque. She was a staunch supporter of the pro-life movement and an active member of St. Mary’s Parish where she volunteered much of her time. She enjoyed cooking, baking, and watching sports, especially hockey, football, and tennis.

Surviving is her mother Esther Thome, sisters Julie Thome, Lori (Ron) Smith and Jane (Bob) Walsh, brother-in-law Gary (Becky) Valentine, nephews David (Samantha) Smith, Michael Smith, Matthew (Tatum Mays) Valentine, Samuel (Natasha Heeren) Valentine, nieces Megan (Miguel Gutierrez) Valentine and Emily McGrane. Also surviving are her great nephews Ryan, Hunter and Henry Smith and great niece Elizabeth Smith.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her father David Thome, sister Mary Beth (Macy) Valentine, and aunt Sister Karol Steger O.S.F.

The family requests no flowers.  Memorials can be sent to Dubuque County Right to Life or St Mary’s Parish.

Georgeann J. Felton

Georgeann J. “Rusty” Felton, age 90, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on July 24, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Georgeann’s life, family and friends are invited to join in food and fellowship at her Celebration of Life which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road, in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Georgeann’s family.

Georgeann was born on February 12, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Carl and Dora (Zuber) Mauer.  She spent her entire life in the Dubuque area and thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends each and every day.  Georgeann was a naturally gifted and perpetually driven wife, mother and grandmother who loved and adored all of her family members down to the very core of her existence.  She spent countless hours watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play hockey and if she found a little time relax at the bowling alley, or socialize around the card table with family and friends, Georgeann was surely in her happy place.  She was not only quite active in her daily life, but also well known to possess a strong-willed personality when required.  In her personal free-time, Georgeann enjoyed traveling whenever possible and creating beautiful floral arrangements which she would proudly exhibit at area Arts and Crafts Shows.  She was as outgoing as she was actively well-rounded in many aspects of life, but at the end of the day, her heart always came back to her family.  We are going to miss our dear Georgeann’s bright spirit in our daily lives, but we will be forever grateful for the 90 years that the Lord was generous enough to share her with us.  Thank you, Georgeann, for teaching us so many important life lessons through your unwavering love and actions and may the Lord now keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Georgann include,

her two children,
Victoria Woodyard, Dubuque, IA,
and Timothy ( Elaine) Felton, Decorah, IA;

her five grandchildren,
Kyle Woodyard, Corey Woodyard, Heidi Woodyard, Ashley Felton, and Heather Felton;

her three great-grandchildren,
Collin Woodyard, Alexander Woodyard, and Kaleb Woodyard;

her siblings,
Diane (Harold) Hetzler, Grayslake, IL,
and Timothy (Joanne) Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Dorine Mauer, Dubuque, IA,
and Janet Entringer, Dubuque, IA;

her special niece,
Bridget Schier, Phoenix, AZ;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Georgeann was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph T. Felton; her son, Dennis L. Felton; and her siblings, Ernest (Martha) Wilson, Rosemary (Jim) Glynn, Gloria (Leslie) Potter, Betty (Leon) Soppe, Stanley Mauer, and Carlton Mauer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Georgeann’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

Georgeann’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa and Peggy, for all of their professional and compassionate care of Rusty and her family.

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