Obituaries Archive

Donald E. Hord

Donald E. “Don” Hord, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 11, 2023, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Don’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Lutheran Cemetery in Warsaw, IL, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Don’s family.

Don was born on December 7, 1936, in Leola, S.D., a son to John W. and Maude E. (Witt) Hord.  His family eventually moved to Warsaw, IL, where Don spent his formative years developing his traits which he would carry into adulthood, and was united in marriage to his beautiful bride, Shirley J. Fiedler, on June 14, 1969, after returning home from honorably serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1955-1963.  They were blessed with three children of their own and were proud to raise them in Dubuque where Don worked as a crane operator with Lunda Construction until he finally retired in 1995.  He continually found great satisfaction throughout his years as he was able to visibly reflect on many of the projects he was a part of, including his work on the flood wall, the Wisconsin bridge, and Hempstead High School just to name a few.  Don had a great sense of humor and always had a one liner at the ready just in case a perfect moment arose which required his input.  Don was an avid coin collector and always enjoyed attending a St. Louis Cardinals game with his family and friends.  His love for life came in second only to his love and devotion to his family.  We will miss Don’s love and light in our daily lives moving forward and are forever grateful for the years the Lord was kind enough to share him with us.  May the abundance of wonderful memories help to heal our broken hearts which we possess today and may Don now enjoy the long-awaited eternal peace with his Savior until we all meet again.  Thank you, Don, for being the prime example of the husband, father and grandfather we all strive to know in this life and for never allowing any doubt to get a foothold in the minds of those you adored that your love was real and true until the very end.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Don include,

his loving wife of 53 years,
Shirley J. Hord, Dubuque, IA;

his three children,
Jim (Laura) Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Michelle (Patrick) Hughes, North Liberty, IA,
and Jody (Craig) Charbonnet, Marietta, GA;

his four grandchildren,
Curt Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Dylan Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Jack Hughes, North Liberty, IA,
and Charlotte Charbonnet, Marietta, GA;

his brother,
Bill (Marjorie) Hord, Santa Maria, CA;

his sister-in-law,
Ada Hord, Phoenix, AZ;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James Hord; and his sister, Patricia (Claire) Smith.

Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Your sincere and gentle kindness has truly helped to make these very difficult days just a little easier to navigate.

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

Darrell L. Cain

Darrell Lee Cain, 86, of Elwood, Iowa, died on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Select Specialty Hospital in Davenport, Iowa.

Darrell was born on September 4, 1936 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Roy and Ruth (Geronzin) Cain.  He was a graduate of Elwood High School, attended Iowa State University for one year, and served his country in the U.S. Army with the Army Military Police in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, earning on honorable discharge.  He married Lola Mae Lubben on Easter Sunday, April 17, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  They had four children, Deane Leroy, Jodi Sue, Carmen Lynne, and Dale Thomas.

Darrell was a lifelong farmer in the Elwood area and in earlier years had worked the night shift at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for a short time.  He had a passion for tinkering and rarely met a machine he couldn’t repair.

Darrell was the friend and neighbor who was always there with whatever was needed and he donated his time and resources to many organizations.  Some of the organizations that benefited from his involvement included serving as a director of Farm Credit Services for 33 years, the National Farm Credit Council for 8 years, Lost Nation Consumer Coop Director, Lost Nation Fire Board, Clinton County Pork Producer’s, and the Clinton County Cattlemen’s Association. He served on the Elwood Cemetery Association and had been the cemetery sexton for many years. He also was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church where he had served as a council chairman and trustee, and a member of the Lost Nation Masonic Lodge and later the Zealous Masonic Lodge #435 of Oxford Junction, and the Clinton Scottish Rite.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Lola Cain of Elwood, IA; children Jodi (Kent) Pulfer of Wayne, NE, Carmen (Mark) Gerlach of Delmar, IA, and Dale (Marcy) Cain of Delmar, IA; 9 grandchildren, Nicole Gerlach, Jacob (Falon) Pulfer, Andrew Pulfer, Wade (Sadie) Gerlach, Luke Pulfer, Marta Pulfer, Roy Gerlach, Lee Cain, and Caleb Cain; 3 great-granddaughters, Hayden, Ella, and Lola; sister Linda Block of Delmar, IA; and in-laws, Nadine Lubben of Maquoketa, IA, John Schumann of Tulsa, OK, and Carol Cain of DeWitt, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Deane Leroy Cain, brother Don Cain, and in-laws, Lois Schumann, Harold Lubben, and Dick Block.

A celebration of Darrell’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Elwood United Methodist Church.  A memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, May 15, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa, where a 6:30 P.M. Masonic Service will be held.  Burial will be at the Elwood, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the family for a future designation.

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

Kathyrn A. Leibold

Kathryn Ann “Kat” Leibold, age 65 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on May 6, 2023, at home.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Word of Life Church, 4550 Dodge St., Dubuque, IA, followed by a prayer service at the church. Entombment will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

Kat was born on July 24, 1957, the daughter of Melvin M. and Virginia Mae (Smith) Leibold. She grew up in Dubuque, Iowa and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1975. She went on to complete her education at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, the University of Wisconsin, Madison, obtained her Associates Degree at Marycrest University, Davenport, and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Western Illinois University.

She was committed to her career path and would devote over 25 years of her life to helping others who found themselves in difficult places in life. She was a strong advocate for anyone in need, especially those struggling with addiction and/or mental illness. Kat worked as an Advanced Certified Addiction Counselor, a Domestic Violence Counselor, a Batterer’s Education Facilitator, worked at Hillcrest Family Services, and Connections Recovery and Support Facilitator for NAMI Dubuque. She was also devoted to helping others in her free time. Kat volunteered countless hours with her friends at the Veteran’s Freedom Center, was a longtime member of NAMI, and enjoyed joining her breast friends (Breast Cancer Survivor’s Team) to participate in Dragonboat racing each year.

Fun in the sun, reading, or playing Cribbage were always on Kat’s to do list, but she could often be found searching for hidden treasures at a flea market or local auction. Kat’s father taught her how to play Euchre and sitting down at the card table was a regular activity whenever the opportunity arose. Kat was a kind and gentle soul who also had to bear the burden of mental illness which she had helped so many others with throughout her journey. Unfortunately, for many folks, this is how they knew her. Mental illness is a nefarious disease which cloaks the real person inside with an identity that confuses the viewer. This longtime battle is finally over for Kat, as she now finds peace from the pain, and has been released from the broken mortal shell she was confined within to finally experience the perfection waiting for her in the arms of her loving Lord and Savior. We will surely miss Kat more than she could ever know and we are forever grateful for all the love, sacrifice, and commitment to others she shared along the way. Thank you, for simply being you and may the generosity you shared with this world be given back to you 10-fold in the next.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kat include, her siblings, Tom (Zelda) Leibold, Davenport, IA, Terry (Joan) Leibold, Dubuque, IA, Krista Beidler, Rockford, IL, Karla Durgin, San Angelo, TX, sister-in law Laurie Leibold, Dubuque, IA; her nieces and nephews, Brian (Tiffany) Leibold, Keith (Samantha) Leibold, Jeffrey (Tracy) Leibold, Amy Leibold, Amanda (Eric) Canada, Andrew (Jordan) Healey; her 8 great-nieces and nephews; along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors; and her faithful feline companion, Bandit.

Kat was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Tim Leibold; and her brothers-in-law, Bill Beidler and David Durgin.

The family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses for the care they have provided Kat throughout the years. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Kat’s name to NAMI Dubuque, 225 W. 6th St., Dubuque, IA or a donation to your favorite charity.

Carol-Ann Medina

Carol-Ann Medina, 78, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Jacksonville, FL, died Monday, May 8, 2023, at Ahva Living of East Dubuque.

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

Carol-Ann was born July 5, 1944, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Jack and Roberta Burton McLean. On June 16, 1962, she married James Medina in Park Forest, IL.  He preceded her in death on December 7, 2020.

Carol-Ann received her Bachelor’s Degree in 1981 from the University of North Florida and taught elementary school for many years. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Education also from the University of North Florida in 1994 and retired as a guidance counselor. Upon retirement, she spent many years doing puppet shows and reading books to children in inner city neighborhoods. Carol-Ann really had a love for teaching and helping children. She was also a published author and dabbled in painting and drawing. Carol-Ann enjoyed playing the piano for school plays and later entertaining others at the retirement community where she lived. She adored her cat, Murphy, and she had loved her many cats over the years.

Survivors include her three children, Kristin (Roberta Tyler) Smith of Dubuque; David (Beth) Medina of Saint Johns, FL; and Carrie Turner of Christiansburg, VA; grandchildren, Harlan Smith and Hunter Smith of Dubuque; James Bohnke of Floyd, VA; Emily Turner of Christiansburg, VA; and Nicholas Medina and Christopher Medina of Saint Johns, FL; and one brother, James (Kathleen) McLean of the Marshall Islands.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque, especially East Team, Diane, Adrienne, Chris, Karen, Paul, Amy, and Morgan, for their loving care and compassion.

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

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

John E. Kluesner

John E. Kluesner, 69, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2023.  A lifelong farmer in Iowa, he was dedicated to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy (Loeffelholz Silva) Kluesner of 23 years; four daughters: Jennifer (Ryne) Strum, Jaclyn (Scott Wootton) Kluesner Peyton, Jamee (Nate) Kramer, and Justine (Marc) Benavidez; three step-sons: Peter (Angela) Silva, Kyle (Jenni) Silva, and Mitchell Silva; six cherished grandchildren: Clark and Isla Strum, Jack and Juliana Peyton, Henry and Abigail Kramer; mother, Mary Jane Kluesner; siblings: Richard (Ann) Kluesner, Julie (Tom) Vonderhaar, Barbara (Tom) Campbell, and Steve Kluesner; parents-in-law, Edwin and Jo Ann Loeffelholz; and in-laws: Sue Kluesner, Alan (Margi) Loeffelholz, Mike (Donna) Loeffelholz, Dan (Deb) Loeffelholz, Karl (Kim) Loeffelholz, and Jeff (Mary) Loeffelholz.

He is preceded in death by his father, Francis Kluesner, brother, Joe Kluesner, and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 14, 2023, 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Kramer Funeral Home, Dyersville, Iowa, continuing Monday, May 15, 2023 at St. John’s Catholic Church, Delhi, Iowa, from 9:30  – 10:45 a.m.  Funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with burial to take place at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery Delhi, Iowa.  Rev. Gabriel Anderson will officiate.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman, Oncology (MercyOne Dubuque), Dr. Natalie Callendar, Multiple Myeloma Oncology Specialist (UW Madison), and to their staff for the compassionate care and support over the past nine years. Thank you also to St. Croix Hospice Care, as well as our family and friends for your continued support.

Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

John’s memory will live on as a testament to a life well-lived and the values he held dear.

Willard D. Edwards

Willard Dale Edwards, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

Willard Dale Edwards was born on July 29, 1944 in Whiteside County, Illinois, to Sanford Tony and Ethel Marion (Chase) Edwards.  He married Rosalie Rockwell on May 15, 1970 in Mt. Carroll, Illinois.

Willard worked construction for his father-in-law for 30 years.  He also delivered pharmaceuticals for five years for the Rockford Company, and worked at National Sleep Products, and for 10 years at DAC, Inc.

Willard loved his family first and foremost, mushroom hunting, fishing, and metal detecting.  He especially loved feeding his birds.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Rosalie Edwards of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Sandy (Barb) Edwards of Charlotte, IA, Joan Manning of Maquoketa, IA, Nellie (Dave Bean) Clark of Maquoketa, IA, and Linda Said of Maquoketa, IA; sisters-in-law, Barbara Edwards of Maquoketa, IA, Mary Horan of Maquoketa, IA, and Carol Bowen of Cedar Rapids, IA; and many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Jane Manning, Nancy Mortenson, and Walter Edwards.

Visitation will be held from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A public graveside service and burial celebrating Willard’s life will follow at 1:30 P.M., Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Willard Dale Edwards memorial fund has been established.

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

Judy K. Pottebaum

Judy Kay Pottebaum, 66, of Dubuque, Iowa entered into the Kingdom of Heaven on May 6, 2023, at MercyOne Hospital Dubuque after a lengthy illness.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., Dubuque, IA.

She was born in Dubuque, Iowa to Anita Elizabeth (Soppe) Gibbons and James Joseph Gibbons Sr. on August 12, 1956. Judy attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School through 8th grade followed by Dubuque Senior High School and earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Northeast Iowa Community College.

She married the love of her life, Steven Edward Pottebaum, on August 21, 1976, at Gale Blum’s Justice of the Peace in Asbury, Iowa. From that union they had two children, Paige June in 1983 and Mitchell Edward in 1988. Prior to going back to school for her Associate Degree, she worked in many restaurants as a waitress though the years and in sales at Leath Furniture. She retired from Project Concern working with Foster Grandparents and the RTA. After that she was fortunate enough to care for grandchildren.

Judy was a kind, generous, caring soul who thought of everyone else before herself. She loved gardening and canning, restoring furniture, sewing, making jewelry, and listening to and playing music, having taught herself to play the guitar. Mom was a lover of animals and enjoyed walking her dogs to the dog park along with her grandchildren when the weather was nice. She had the best sense of humor and a laugh you couldn’t forget.

Mom was very proud of her Irish heritage and shared that with her children and grandchildren, of whom she was also very proud. She was the best mom, wife, grandma, sister, and friend; she will be missed dearly by all who had the joy of knowing her. My mom was one of the strongest people I have ever known, and I hope I am an ounce of the woman she was.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 46 years, Steven, sister Sandra (Denny) Deming of Idaho, sister Carol Gibbons of Dubuque, sisters-in-law Julie Edwards and Lisa (Roland) Wagner of Blue Grass, sister-in-law Carla Gibbons, her daughter Paige Ortiz (significant other Eric Zalaznik), son Mitchell Pottebaum, honorary son Leo Ortiz, grandchildren: Lisette, Jakob, and Jimmy, step-grandchildren: Ava Zalaznik, Julia Zalaznik, and Clara Zalaznik, several nieces, life-long friend Jane Howe, and last but not least–her beloved dog, Mooch.

Those who greeted her in Heaven include: her parents Anita and James Gibbons, her mother and father-in-law Darlene (Boots) and Edward Pottebaum, brothers Dale and James Gibbons Jr., nephew Ron Joseph Wagner, and her dogs: Molly, Maggie, Betsie, Sadie, Spanky, Ming and her cat Buster.

Memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home.

The family would like to thank Dr. Nachtman, Dr. Khan, Dr. Loc, Dubuque Fire EMS, and the staff of MercyOne Hospital (especially the ER) for the wonderful care they provided her (and us) on her final day and throughout the last few years.

Dr. Josef Kubicek

Dr. Josef “Joe” Kubicek, DVM, 79 ½, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on Friday, May 5, 2023 in Postville, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. on Friday, May 12, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque. The mass of Christian burial for Joe will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, May 12, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Joe was born October 30, 1943 in Sopotnice 60, Czechoslovakia. On September 28, 1968, he married Ludmila Matějková in Ústí nad Orlicí, Czechoslovakia, now known as Czech Republic. Joe was a practicing veterinarian in Czechoslovakia and escaped with his family from communism in 1980. Their family received political asylum to come to the US in 1981 and settled in El Dorado, Kansas. Joe renewed his master’s degree at Kansas State University and was employed as a Meat Inspector for the USDA in Dubuque and then Postville, Iowa. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, and reading about history, science and autobiographies. His amazing memory lent to making him a stimulating storyteller.

Survivors include his wife, Ludmila Kubicek of Dubuque; five children, Alena (Michael) Britten of Crystal Lake, Il; Libor (Lesley) Kubicek of Manassas, VA; Ales Kubicek of Madison, WI; Jolana Kubicek of Niedermohr, Germany; and Robert (Eva Kirstenova) Kubicek of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren Kiley (Ruadhan), Dorian, Viktor, Julian, Rebeka and a great-grandchild due in July; his sister Helena (Josef)  Plíhal of Sopotnice, Czech Republic; and several nieces and nephews in Czech Republic. As the oldest sibling, he was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Joyce F. Potter

Joyce F. Potter, 89, of Eagle Point Place, Dubuque, formerly of Dyersville, IA, passed away Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be Wednesday May 10, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.  A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, May 11_, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Scott Meador officiating.  Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.  The burial will be at Dubuque Memorial Gardens. A live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Joyce was born February 6, 1934, in Geneva, IA to Walter E. Bergmann and Gladys B. Muhlenbruck.  She attended Morningside College in Sioux City, IA and Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, IL.  She married Richard C. Potter on January 14, 1961, in Indianola, IA.  Her main occupation was a homemaker.  She also worked at Stone Creek One Stop and Evers Toy Store in Dyersville.  She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge.

Mom enjoyed spending time with her family, especially the little ones, as well as traveling, quilting, crocheting, knitting, sewing, other crafts, and puzzles.

Survivors include her children David (Diana) Potter, Monterey, CA; Scott (Jenny) Potter, New Haven, MO; Laurie (Matt) Urban, Dubuque, IA; and Randy (Anne) Potter, Dyersville, IA; Grandchildren: Chelsea (Bill) Jakob; Justin Potter; Jessica (Marty) Krapfl; Elizabeth (Dustin) Boyette; Sam (Kenzie) Urban; Amanda (Justin) Adams; and Tim Potter.  Great-Grandchildren: Bethany, Mike, Dan, and Hannah Rankin; Leah Boyette; Katie and Tucker Urban; Daisy Adams; Bill Jr. (Emily) Jakob and Johnathon Jakob. Sister: Maxine Bots, Brother-in-law: Ed Hiller, Sister-in-law: Norma Vondra.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Richard, sister Lucille Hiller, brother-in-law Jim Bots, grandson Kroy Urban, brother Rolland Bergmann, in-laws Dan and Lois Potter and Don Vondra.

The family would like to thank her friends at Eagle Point Place, the staff at Mercy Hospital and Medical Associates Clinic, especially Dr. Kenneth Steffen, Julie Ehlinger, ARNP and Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care they gave to Joyce.

Lois G. Reuter

Lois Gertrude (Cimmiyotti) Reuter, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on May 9, 2023, at her home. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, May 14 at Leonard Funeral Home in Dubuque, with a prayer service at 12:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial for Lois will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 15, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Key West, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Key West immediately following Mass.

Lois was born on November 24, 1936, in Ionia, Iowa, the daughter of Joseph and Helen (Fischbach) Cimmiyotti. In 1954, she graduated from St. Clair High School in St. Clair, Minnesota. Following graduation, Lois moved to Dubuque to work at Flexsteel Industries. Later she was employed at H&R Block, Merri-Mac, Hopper’s Greenhouse, and Kahle’s Furniture, before retiring from Medical Associates Clinic in 2003.

On December 2, 1961, she was united in marriage to Kenneth Reuter at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque. Six children were born to this union. In 1964, they purchased a farm near Key West, south of Dubuque, where she worked alongside her husband until they retired to Oak Park Place in 2022.

Lois was steadfast in her faith. A devoted and hardworking wife, mother, and grandmother, she poured herself into her family. She enjoyed playing cards, slots, and bingo, and was a wicked UNO player. Lois was a loyal friend and will be remembered for her extreme generosity. She will be greatly missed.

Lois is survived by her husband of 61 years, Kenneth; six children, Jeff (Dianna) Reuter of Iowa City, Jerry (Julie) Reuter of Basin, Wyoming, Mike (Kerry) Reuter of Sherrill, Julie (Dave) Sunne of Strawberry Point, Sherri (Greg “Pete”) Birkett of Durango, and Dave (Teresa) Reuter of Holy Cross; 15 grandchildren, Nicholas (Ashley) and Mitchell Reuter, Joshua (Emilie) Reuter, Bekki (Cody) Spencer, and Cal Reuter, Ashley (Steven) Shafer and Kimberley Reuter, Daniel, Zachary, Rachel, and Joseph (Brooke) Sunne, Benjamin and Samantha Birkett, and Cole and Luke Reuter; 10 great-grandchildren; four siblings, Jackie Ritter and Ronald Cimmiyotti, both of Charles City, Marlys Bade of Oakdale, Minnesota, and Gordon (Sandy) Cimmiyotti of Stacyville; and two sisters-in-law, Carol Cimmiyotti of Sargeant, Minnesota, and Betty Reuter of Key West.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, her father- and mother-in-law, Sylvester and Celestine Reuter; a grandson, Adam Birkett; a sister, Leola Brady; brother, Stanley Cimmiyotti; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Glenn Bade, Paul Ritter, Sharon Cimmiyotti, Janet Cimmiyotti, Pat Brady, Lois (Arnold) Green, Clem Reuter, Harlan Reuter (MIA, Korean War), Leonard “Jack” Reuter, and Jim (Darlene) Reuter.

Memorials are welcome in lieu of flowers.

Naomi Regan

Naomi “Dottie” Regan, 85, of Dubuque, died Sunday, May 7, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Naomi will be 11:00 am Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Naomi was born April 21, 1938, in Iowa City, the daughter of Emmett and DeEtta (Oliver) Kelley. On April 14, 1956, she married Frank Regan in Holy Ghost Catholic Church.  He died August 12, 2003.

She worked in the janitorial department for the Dubuque School System.  She had the distinct honor of being the first full time woman custodian for the Dubuque School System.

She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  She enjoyed puzzles, sewing, and playing cards.  She was determined to do things herself and even took a cabinet making class to make her own cabinets.

Survivors include one son, Daniel (Carol) Regan of Peosta; one daughter, Kelli (Lonie) Brown of Dubuque;  one grandson, Kevin (Abigail) Regan, and three granddaughters, Codi (Mike) Jasper, and Kristan and Hannah Brown; six great grandchildren; one sister, Mary (Eldon) Weiss of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews including, Mike Kelley of Dubuque.

Besides her husband she was preceded in death by one daughter, Lorraine “Lorri” Regan, four brothers and one sister.

A special thank you to Sunset Park Place especially Katelyn and Nick.

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

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

Gerald N. Arensdorf

Gerald (Jerry) N. Arensdorf, age 97, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 28, 2023, at Luther Manor while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jerry’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church, 1240 Rush Street in Dubuque, with Father Tom McDermott officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship 9:00am to 10:15 at the church.  Burial will be in the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jerry’s family.

Jerry was born on November 29, 1925, in LaMotte, IA, to Henry and Anna (Heiar) Arensdorf.  He grew up with a strong work ethic and a determination to make the most out of life.  He was united in marriage to his beautiful bride, Rita Manderscheid, and the couple was blessed with seven children and many wonderful years together until she was sadly called home in 2010.  Jerry and Rita raised their family together on the farm for over 60 years where many wonderful memories and life lessons were learned along the way.  He was the maintenance MAN at Anderson Weber for 25 years and was able to continue to share his Jack of All Trades skills with his friends there until he finally retired in 1994.  Jerry was a longtime and faithful member of St. Columbkille’s Parish.  The 10:00am Sunday Mass could not happen unless he was there to usher. He enjoyed the opportunity to lead by example and valued the ability to instill some of life most important traits into his family.  Jerry never met a challenge he couldn’t face. We will miss his presence in our daily lives but are forever grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.  May the Lord bless you and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jerry include, his six children, Sue (Mike) Kennedy, Ken (Christy) Arensdorf, Howard (Sandy) Arensdorf, Angie (Bob) Burdett, Jeff (Robin) Arensdorf, and Terry (Anita) Arensdorf; his eighteen grandchildren; his twenty-three great-grandchildren; his great-great-grandchild; his special friend, Marion Welter; his sister-in-law, Pat Arensdorf; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Rita; his son, David; his 10 brothers and sisters; along with 7 brothers and sisters-in-law.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kourtney, for all of their professional and compassionate care for “Jerr Bear”.

Memorials may be given to St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church, Hospice of Dubuque or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Ralph A. Nurre

Ralph A. Nurre, 93, of Dyersville and formerly of Petersburg died Friday, May 5, 2023, at MercyOne Seniorcare in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held 4 -7 p.m. Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Friday from 9:30 – 10:30 am at the funeral home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 12, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhasky will officiate.  Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137.

Ralph was born March 28, 1930, the son of Clem and Rose (Herbers) Nurre.  He served in the Korean War in the 25^th Medical Division from 1952-1954.  He married Lillian Catherine Werner on Oct. 26, 1954, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington.  Together they farmed in the Petersburg area until they semi-retired and moved to Dyersville in 1986.  He loved going to the farm to lend his helpful hand and expertise.

He enjoyed listening and dancing to old country music, playing cards and taking SLOW rides, watching the crops grow, but his most enjoyable times were spent with his family.

He was known for his bib overalls, signature phrases, especially “that’s a heck of a note” and any bigger decisions that had to be made he would say, “I’ll have to sleep on it.”  He had an easy, slow and measured response to almost everything thrown his way.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1734 and Americal Legion Post 137.

Survivors include his wife Lillian, children:  Dennis (Karen) Nurre, Daryl (Rose) Nurre, both of Dyersville, Diane (Lonnie) Osbourne of Dubuque, and Deb (Brian) Greenwood of Epworth; 10 grandchildren: Abby (Ben) Renner, Traci Nurre, Nick (Rachel) Nurre, Katie Nurre, Michelle (Jake) McGuire, Jennifer Butler, Kimberly (Jarrod) Timmer, Melissa (Karl) Hubbard, Kelli Greenwood and Lee Greenwood; step-grandchildren, Jay Osbourne and Jane (Seth) Katz, and 14 great-grandchildren; sisters: Norma ( friend Dale Budde)Vaughan of Dubuque and Marion (Neil) White of Monticello.

He was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law, George and Millie Werner, a son, Daniel, granddaughter, Kristi Nurre; siblings: Caroline Nurre, Cleo (Wilma) Nurre, Ray (Joan) Nurre, Rita (Leo) Bockenstedt; a brother-in-law, Jay Vaughn.

Memorials are preferred.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com or send cards to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home 750 – 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, Iowa 52040.

Vernon H. Wubben

Vernon H. Wubben, age 89, of Menominee, IL, passed away Saturday morning, May 6, 2023, at home surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at Nativity BVM Catholic Church in Menominee, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 9th at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish Rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. Members of American Legion Post # 787 will meet at the funeral home at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Friends and family may also call from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Vernon was born on May 18, 1933, in Menominee, the son of Henry and Dorothy (Handfelt) Wubben.  He was united in marriage to Darlene K. Thul on October 6, 1962, at St. Philomena Catholic Church in Asbury, IA.

Vernon was a member of Nativity BVM Church and its Holy Name Society, and East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787. He was also an Honorary member of the Menominee-Dunleith Fire Dept. after having served for 29 years. Vernon farmed in Menominee his entire life. He served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1953 – 1955.

Vernon was an avid card player, loved to travel through the United States and to 18 countries in Europe. He went on the Honor Flight on September 17, 2013, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Surviving is his wife, Darlene; his sister, Marita Linden of Cuba City, WI; in-laws, William Thul, Ray (Pat) Thul , and Daryl Ernster, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Dorothy, a sister, Coletta, and in-laws, Leonard Thul, Margaret (Thul) Ernster, Joyce Thul and Dale Linden.

Darlene and family wish to thank the staff from Heal to Thrive and the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque for their care of Vernon.

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

Robert C. Henkel

Robert C. Henkel, 90, of Dubuque, died Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Dubuque Specialty Care in Dubuque.

The Funeral Service for Robert will be 10:00 am Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at Mount Calvary Cemetery with Deacon Dave Roth officiating and military honors rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

Robert was born May 23, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Lee and Helen Gensler Henkel. On July 18, 1953, he married Jeanette G. Coleman at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque. She died July 21, 2006.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during the Korean War from 1952 until 1956.

Bob was an engineer for Dubuque Star Brewery. Prior to that, he had worked for Dubuque Packing Company for many years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing with his brothers and friends.

Survivors include one sister, Joy White of Dubuque; four brothers, Richard (Judy) Henkel of Dubuque, Charles “Chuck” (Patricia) Henkel of Harrah, OK, Gary (Connie) Henkel of Dubuque, and Jim (Madonna “Mike”) Henkel of Kellog, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, five sisters, Gayle Schmitt, Helen “Lonnie” Henkel, Jeane Felderman, Sandra Zigenfuzz, and Marian Kelly, and one brother, Lee Henkel.

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

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