Obituaries Archive

Kathleen Yager

Kathleen “Kay” Yager, 84, of Dubuque, died Thursday, August 3, 2023, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until 10:45 am on Friday, August 11, 2023 at St. Raphael Cathedral. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 am Friday, August 11, 2023, with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Kathleen was born September 4, 1938, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of James and Johanna (Smith) Boland. On August 23, 1960, she married Orville G. Yager at St. Raphael Cathedral on August 23, 1960.  He preceded her in death on September 26, 2014.

She attended St. Raphael grade school and graduated from the former St. Joseph Academy for girls.  Kay worked at W.C. Brown Publishing Company until the start of her family and then as a cook for Dubuque Community Schools when her children left home.

Kay loved her family, her church and her Irish heritage.  She made many life-long friends and memories; having lived within a block of St. Raphael’s until she married. Kay was a consummate homemaker who loved to cook, garden, decorate (and redecorate) her home.  Her  door was always open to visits from family and friends.

Survivors include her three sons, Mike Yager of Racine, WI; Tom Yager of Chicago, IL; Tim Yager of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Gabe and Sam Yager and Katerina Yager, sisters-in-law; Evie Boland and Myrt (Jim) McDonald both of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; four sisters, Sr. Johanna Boland BVM, Jean (Frank) Schumacher, Joan (Dominic) Goodman, Mary (George) Nacos; two brothers, James and Tom Boland and three nephews, Michael Boland, Steven Boland, and Richard Boland.

In lieu of plants, flowers, and statues, memorials may be given to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Dubuque, Iowa, or St. Raphael Cathedral.

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

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

A special thank you to Dr. Angela Kelley and staff, and the Luther Manor Communities staff for their expert and compassionate care.

Bonnie G. Lewis

With heavy hearts we bid farewell to a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many with her vibrant spirit. Bonnie Gay (Johnson) Lewis, aged 65, passed away on Sunday, July 30th, at Gundersen Medical Center, LaCrosse, WI, leaving behind a legacy of joy, tenacity, and intelligence that will forever be cherished by her family and friends.

Born on January 22, 1958, in Waukon, Iowa, our mom was a force of nature from the very beginning. Her vivacious personality and sense of humor made her the life of every gathering, and she had a unique ability to light up any room with her infectious laughter and playful demeanor. Her fun-loving nature endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Stubbornness was another defining trait of our mom, and while it could occasionally lead to spirited disagreements, it was a testament to her strong-willed nature and determination to stand up for what she believed in. Her stubbornness often proved to be a valuable quality, driving her to overcome challenges and achieve her goals with tenacity. This, paired with her talent for business, paved the way for a successful career in the car industry. Wild at heart, she had a zest for life that knew no bounds. She loved to explore the world around her, seeking out new adventures and experiences. Her curiosity and fearlessness inspired those around her to embrace the unknown and life’s unpredictability. She loved camping, traveling, fishing, country music, dancing, and reading.

Behind her fun-loving and adventurous nature was a keen intellect that earned her the admiration of friends and family alike. She had a thirst for knowledge and a sharp mind that she used to navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and grace. Her ability to tackle challenges with intelligence and insight was truly impressive and made her an invaluable advisor to those who sought her guidance.

She is survived by her children Melissa (Tony) McCullough of Bluffton, SC, Christoper (Adrianna) Cruse of East Dubuque, IL, and Skylar Lewis of McGregor, IA, grandchildren, Ryleigh and Porter McCullough, and Baylee and Quinten Cruse, and brothers Russ and John Johnson.

She was proceeded in death by her mother, Lorraine Berg, father Marland “Bud” Johnson, brothers Eugene, Mike, and Kimberly Johnson, and her sister, Linda Johnson.

Through the tears of grief, we find comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her. As we celebrate her life, we take solace in the knowledge that her legacy will continue through the lives she touched, the countless memories she gifted us, the laughter she shared, and the lessons she imparted. Though she is no longer with us in person, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved.

We hope that she rests in eternal peace, and may she continue to inspire us all to live life with the same fun, love, stubbornness, wildness, and intelligence that she showed.

Burial will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista, IA.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©

Gordon Greer

Gordon Greer age 61, of Dubuque, passed away at 9:20 a.m., on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Genesis Medical Center East. To honor Gordon’s life, private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Gordon was born on August 19, 1961, in Waterloo, Iowa, son of Eva Mae Reed and was later adopted by Dave E. and Mary Ella (Matlock) Greer.

Gordon graduated from Central High School in Waterloo, Iowa.  After school he honorably served his country with the U.S. Army from 1980 until 1990.  Gordon worked for several places and was most recently employed at Building Products, Inc. in Evansdale, Iowa.  He was united in marriage to Genevieve Gratace on February 3, 2007, in Waterloo, Iowa.  In his free time, Gordon enjoyed fishing, listening to music, grilling out and riding his bicycle.  He had a kind heart and a down to earth personality.  His family and friends were definitely the most important part of his life.  Gordon loved getting everyone together for a cook out and some family fun!  He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

Those left to cherish Gordon’s memory include

his wife,
Genevieve Greer, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Desmond (Lori) Denton, Manly, IA,
Antoine Greer, Waterloo, IA,
Anthony Greer, Waterloo, IA,
Alaysha Greer, Waterloo, IA,
Marlesha Nieland, Dubuque, IA
and Larissa Greer, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren;

and his siblings,
Faye (Sammy) Loggins, Grenada, MS,
Joyce (Dean) Reynolds, Grenada, MS,
Joella Anderson, Aurora, CO,
Deanne (James) Evans, Waterloo, IA,
Diane Reed, Waterloo, IA,
Kay Reed, Waterloo, IA,
Melvin Reed, Waterloo, IA
and Patricia (David) Sykes, Waterloo, IA.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Michelle Reed; and a brother, Willie C

Douglas J. Gudenkauf

Douglas J. Gudenkauf, 66 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Thursday, August 3, 2023 at Mercy Medical Center of Dubuque, Iowa after a hard fought, five year journey with end stage renal disease.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate.

Doug was born on June 14, 1957 in Corona, California, the son of Fay and Carol (Ament) Gudenkauf.  He married Debbie Kurt on October 22, 1977 in Dyersville, Iowa. Together, they resided in Dyersville and raised Kurt and Carmen. He worked over 38 years for Schwans.

Doug was first and foremost,a family man and spending time with friends. He was an avid Seattle Seahawks fan. He was very proud of his grandchildren and enjoyed watching them grow. He loved trivia, music, gardening, and was an excellent cook. He tinkered around the house and was very innovative. He was always more than willing to lend a helping hand or listening ear to anyone. He never met a stranger and will be missed by many.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 46 years, Debbie; children: Kurt (Beth) Gudenkauf of Dyersville, Carmen (Tony) Fagan of Dyersville; grandchildren: Ian and Erin Fagan, Bernice, Graham, and baby Gudenkauf expected in December; siblings: Dave (Mireille) Gudenkauf, Keith Gudenkauf, Kevin (Kathy) Gudenkauf, Ann Gudenkauf, Karla Gudenkauf; and a brother-in-law, Kevin (Mary Lou) Kurt, and his companion dog, Bear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law, Dorrance and Betty Kurt, and a niece, Michelle Kurt.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his many caregivers, especially Dr. Whalen and ALL the staff at Tri-State Dialysis.

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

Jimmy W. Mayfield

Jimmy W. Mayfield, 76, of Toronto, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at home.

Jimmy Wayne Mayfield was born on June 13, 1947, in Davenport, Iowa, to Robert W. “Bud” and Dorothy Pauline (Larkey) Mayfield.  He married Jean M. Hankemeier on August 1, 1998, at Walnut Grove Park in Toronto, Iowa.

Jimmy had worked various jobs including several area meat lockers and was a self-employed salvage man.

He enjoyed target practice with his pistols, fishing, camping, cookouts with his family and friends, and especially spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his furry companion Mitsie and newest arrival Tuffy.  Additionally, he loved flea markets, and was well-known for telling stories.

Jimmy is survived by his wife Jean Mayfield of Toronto, IA; children, Kim (Craig) Evans of Iowa City, IA, Chuck (Norma Jean) Crow of FL, Kelly (Bill) Butters of Des Moines, IA, Jamie (Kelly) Mayfield of TN, Billy (Chelley) Ralston of Baldwin, IA, Tammy Mayfield of North Liberty, IA, and Mike Ralston of Maquoketa, IA; 19 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Shirley Stuttsman of North Liberty, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Johnny, son Jimmy, and his faithful companion Mitsie.

A graveside service celebrating his life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at the Canton, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family.

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

Anna F. Megger

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

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

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

Those left to cherish Anna’s memory include

her close friends,
Shelly Mess and Mary Klaas.

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

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

Evonda S. Diel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Douglas J. Crosby

Donald A. Demmer

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neil R. Gavin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glenn T. Flury

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kevin D. Kline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jim Dausener

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Karen A. Walbrun

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mary Jane Hoffmann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Mary Jane Hoffmann memorial fund has been established.

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