Obituaries Archive

Steven T. Schmieder

Steven T. “Freckles” Schmieder, age 56, of Dubuque, IA.,  completed his earthly journey on June 5, 2022, at UnityPoint-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.  To honor Steve’s life, a private family service is being held at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Steve’s family.

Steve was born on September 12, 1965, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Judith D. (Bakey) Schmieder-Smith.  He went on to invest his working years with Capital Myers Cox first, and then spent over 27 years with Nordstrom as a financial manager before moving into retirement at the age of 50.  Steve was a uniquely special father who deeply loved his daughters and grandchildren.  In his free time, he enjoyed socializing daily with his many bar buddies, detailing his meticulously kept cars and lawn, and listening to the Beatles.  Steve enjoyed Euchre foremost, then golf, and summer weekends with friends at Lake Delhi.  He graciously hosted family Thanksgiving at his home, which he proudly purchased from his closest aunt and uncle.  He had a huge heart and will be missed by all who knew him.  Until we meet again, Round Head!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Steve include,

his two daughters,
JoAnna (Mike) Roloff, Epworth, IA,
and Stephanie (Dan) Hosch, Monticello, IA;

his four grandchildren,
Addyson Mensen, Amelya Roloff, Kalvin Roloff, and Drew Hosch;

his sisters,
Lynne Kirchhoff (“bad sister”), Dubuque, IA,
and Connie (Tom) Clark (“good sister”), Dubuque, IA;

his grandmother,
Hazel Bakey, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family and many, many, many friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Judith D. Smith; his sister in infancy, Kimberly; and his grandfather, Frank Bakey.

Steve’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sandra J. Kahle

Sandra Jean “Sandy” Kahle, 76, of Asbury, died peacefully Monday, June 6, 2022, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, June 9, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sandra will be 10:30 am Friday, June 10, 2022, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Philip Agyei as the Celebrant and Deacon Mike Ellis assisiting. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sandy was born on September 7, 1945, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Irwin Michael and Alma Mertis Hillard. She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1963. On September 14, 1963, she married James Kahle, the love of her life, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque. They spent 50 wonderful years together before his death on August 25, 2013.

Sandy was employed by the Dubuque Community Schools and the Church of the Resurrection, where she had been a member since 1970 and was very involved with volunteering. She was in charge of the Be-Friender group, and volunteered as a Church Sacristan, Reader, and Eucharistic Minister.  She was very proud to have received her Lay Ministry Certificate from the Dubuque Archdiocese.  Sandy loved spending time with family life and was always involved with her children’s activities. Sandy was a caring wife, friend, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved golfing, painting, shopping trips, and spending time with her grandchildren. Sandy will be sadly missed by her children, family, and friends.

Survivors include her four children, Brenda (Robert) Fuller of Las Vegas, NV, Bryan (Amanda) Kahle of Conroe, TX, Beth (Doug) Dozier of Marion, IA, and Eric (Liz) Kahle of Appleton, WI; nine grandchildren, Amanda (Ian) Gannon, Danielle (Justin) Cavinder, Justin Dozier, Griffin Dozier, Alexander Fuller, Olivia Kahle, Sylvia Kahle, Clara Kahle, and Mason Kahle; seven great-grandchildren, Kamren and Kaylie Kohut, Aubrey Gannon, and James, Cooper, Josie and Wyatt Cavinder; one sister, Sharon (Tom) Mellon of Des Moines, IA; one brother-in-law, Don (Erm) Kahle; and one sister-in-law, Sally Kahle.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Jan Francois, and Mary Waldbilling, and an infant brother, Carl.

A memorial has been established for the Church of the Resurrection.

The family would like to thank Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they gave Sandy during her illness. The family would also like to thank the Resurrection Church community and many friends for their continued prayers.

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

Victoria A. Buelow

Victoria Ann Buelow, 50, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer on June 4, 2022, at home with her family.

A funeral service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 9th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Johnny Randle officiating. Friends and family may visit from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Victoria was born on August 26, 1971, daughter of Creomonia Vesey and William Donelson. She graduated from Rock Island High School in 1989. She married Todd Buelow on February 16, 2001. She worked at Dubuque Bank and Trust for 15 years.

Victoria liked planting flowers and going out on the river. She loved spending time with family, friends, and her coworkers. She had a beautiful smile and a positive personality.

Victoria is survived by her husband Todd, son Fontae, daughter Ashley of Dubuque, Grandmother Dorothy Vesey, parents-in-law Thomas and Linda Buelow of Dubuque, as well as several siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandfather Clayton Vesey, grandmother Creomonia Vesey, and sister-in-law Tracy Less.

Thank you to the Integrated Cancer Center, Dr. Mark Hermann, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Geraldine F. Althoff

Geraldine F. “Geri” (Casel) Althoff, 85, of Cascade, IA passed away on Saturday, June 4, 2022, in her home in Cascade, Iowa surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 8th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road Dubuque, IA where a wake service will be at 3:45 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 7th, 2022, at St. Matthias Catholic Church in Cascade, IA with Fr. Mark Osterhaus officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

She was born October 30, 1936, in Maquoketa, Iowa, the daughter of Merlin and Eileen (Carew) Casel. She married the love of her life Charles Althoff on August 24, 1957, at St. Lawrence Church in Otter Creek, Iowa. Geri graduated from St. Ambrose University with her Nursing degree in 1957. She obtained her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Dubuque in 1977. Geri continued her education at the University of Iowa where in 1987 she obtained her Masters of Arts in Instructional Design with an emphasis in Health Education. She worked as a nurse in Dubuque. She taught at Mercy School of Nursing and Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC). In 1990, she was named Chairwoman of the Health Occupations and Social Science department. After retiring in 1999, she returned to serve as the Acting Dean of Health and Human Services and Interim Head of Nursing for NICC. In 2012, she was honored by the NICC Peosta campus with the Outstanding Retiree Service Award.

Geri enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her five grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling with her husband Charlie, video calls with her 3 great-grandchildren, and writing two published children’s books. Geri was a kind, considerate, faithful, and generous woman who had a positive impact on everyone around her. She was a role model and the rock for her family. Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Geri is survived by her three children: Steve Althoff, Theresa (Dennis) Balk, and Mike (Kathy) Althoff; five grandchildren: Matthew (Morgan) Balk, Courtney (Zach) Stahlin, Rachel Balk, Caitlyn (Nick) Miller, Abigail Balk; three great- grandchildren: Forrest Balk, Charlie Miller, Grayson Miller, twin girls arriving this fall; her brother Paul (Jeanette) Casel; her sister Mary Jane (Kenneth) Bahr; her sisters-in-law Geraldine (Frank) Kintzle, Kathy Graham, Margie Althoff; brothers-in-law Robert Kirsch and Ronald Dzaboff; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Geri is preceded in death by her husband Charles; daughter Julie Ann (1959); her parents Merlin and Eileen Casel; mother-in-law Vivian Althoff; father-in-law Frank Althoff; her sisters-in-law Virginia Dzaboff, Elaine Kirsch, MaryAnn Althoff; her brothers-in-law Edwin Althoff, Clarence Althoff; and nephew Ted Althoff.

Geri’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Matthew Kirkendall and his nurse Kate, Dr. Jennifer Schope, and the Above and Beyond team for their loving, compassionate, and professional care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

Kenneth L. Zeckser

Kenneth Leo Zeckser, 86 Years, of Dubuque, died June 4th, at home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m Monday, June 6, 2022 at St. Joseph the Worker Parish; a prayer service will begin at 6:30 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ken will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June7, 2022 St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Paul Attah-Nsiah as the Celebrant.  Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.  Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

Kenneth was born March 11,1936, in Fort Dodge, IA, the son of August William and Matilda Elsa Zeckser. On December 27, 1971, he married Karen Ann O’Connor at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Dubuque.  The theme of their marriage covenant was taken from Micah: “Live justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with the Lord.”  That was Ken!

Ken graduated from Manson High School and attended junior college. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving in Japan from 1954 – 1957.  He received the coveted plaque naming him: Outstanding soldier of the month at the US. Army Transportation Terminal Command, Japan.  Ken was a member of the 517th Military Police Company in Yokohama. Ken was a member of the Honor Guard in Tokyo before being sent to Yokohama.

Returning home, Ken worked for a short while in construction in Storm Lake before beginning his career as an insurance adjuster for about 35 years and as an agent in Dubuque for O’Connor Insurance for another 6 years.

He was an active member of St Paul the Apostle Parish in Davenport for 18 years and of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Parish for the past 31 years.  Ken actively participated in both parishes, volunteering on Parish Council, as Eucharistic Minister, Money Counter, Usher, CEW participant, and festival worker at both parishes, all until his health was too compromised.  Ken was also very active in 3 Parish Faith Groups at each parish over the past 50 years.

Over the years, Ken enjoyed participating in a bike club, in Indian Guides and Princesses with his children, and in following all of their activities.  In these last 25 retirement years, Ken worked diligently for the poor and needy through St. Stephen’s Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul’s Voucher Center. The Voucher Center was a great dream of Ken’s, wanting those in need to be welcomed directly to the Center to access the things they needed.   After it opened, he visited many families and then welcomed them every day they were open until COVID came.  Ken was honored and very humbled to receive the Governor’s Service Award in 2018 and to have been a nominee for the Dubuque Citizen of the Year in 2020.

Ken enjoyed playing cards, watching the Hawks and Notre Dame and visiting the homes of his grandchildren.  He especially liked making surprise gifts or Christmas presents for them.  He helped each of his children with home improvements, building and painting walls, and even constructing a backyard bridge.  Ken loved home most of all.  It was his comfort place of peace in this world.  Ken was grateful for everything and asked for nothing.  Everything was always “just fine”.

A good friend of Ken’s said of him: “Kenny is one of the finest people I know.  He is so kind and always willing to help especially the less fortunate.  He speaks to me by his example.  He lives what Jesus asked us to do: ‘Love God and love one another.’  He is genuine.  I am honored that he lets me call him friend.”

Survivors include Ken’s wife Karen; two daughters, Ann (John) Henkhaus of Sioux Falls, SD, their children Peter, Joseph, William and Sarah; Ellen (Cory) Tell of Sammamish, WA, their children August and Margaret; and one son, Zachary (Laura) Zeckser of Cedar Rapids, IA, their children Frederick, Gemma, Elizabeth, and John Francis Leo.  Ken had four brothers & sisters-in-law: Frank (Robin) O’Connor, John (Mary Beth) O’Connor, Jerry (Mary) O’Connor, and Kevin (Abbie) O’Connor; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Norman Zeckser, Ellen Zeckser, Verna Zierke ,and Garnita Johnson, his in-laws, Marion and Francis O’Connor, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

The family thanks most especially Sara and Amy from Hospice of Dubuque, Fr. Paul, and all the family and friends who have supported us over these days.

Facilitating arrangements is Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory.

Herbert J. Bussan

Herbert J. “Herb” Bussan, 77, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque and Galena, IL, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center, from complications of COPD.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022, at St. Mary’s Church in Galena, with Fr. Howard Barch, Jr. officiating.  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Galena, with military honors accorded by members of V.F.W. Post # 2665 and American Legion Post # 193.

A Memorial Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 10, 2022, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.

Herb was born on August 30, 1944, in Galena, IL, the son of Joseph E. and Gertrude (Reitz) Bussan. He was a graduate of Galena High School, the class of 1963, and a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U. S. Army.

On May 24, 1975, he was united in marriage to Sue A. McCulloch of Plano, IL, at St. Mary’s Church in Galena. Herb graduated from Quad-Cities Barber College and was a licensed barber for 59-years, operating Herb’s Barber Shop in Galena, East Dubuque and Dubuque. Herb also worked security for PerMar and was most recently employed at Dubuque Bank & Trust as a Security Officer. He was a life-member of V.F.W. Post # 2665 of Galena.

Herb was a people person, had a great love for dogs, operated his own vending machine business (Bussan Vending) for many years and was an avid NASCAR and Chicago Cubs fan. He participated and sponsored many bowling teams in the Dubuque and Galena area and loved a good game of euchre.

Surviving is his wife, Sue; one sister, Barbara (Rollie) Swingle of Elk Grove, Calif., a sister-in-law, Mary (Ken) Radivoy of Aiken, S.C., and brother-in-law, Merle Gaber of Dubuque; and ten nieces and nephews and their families, plus many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Gertrude, two sisters, Helen Gaber and Joan Smith, and a great nephew, Adam Wright.

Memorials in Herb’s name may be given to the Dubuque Humane Society.

Sue wishes to give special thanks to Herb’s co-workers at DB&T for their efforts to help during his illness. You will be remembered for the many special caring thoughts and wishes for Herb.

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

Clarence R. Kramer

Clarence R. Kramer, 88, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on May 31, 2022 at his home. In accordance to his wishes, a private burial will be held at Dubuque Memorial Gardens at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Clarence was born on March 27, 1934 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence and Viola (Gross)Kramer. He married Shirley A. Fenley August 4,1951, at St. John’s Lutheran Church. He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for many years, retired, then drove for both the Telegraph Herald and Dairy Lab Services.

Clarence was an avid bowler and NASCAR fan. He loved to tinker with cars, trips to Branson, a good game of euchre and his custom show truck. He is at peace now, happy in Heaven with Mom.

He is survived by his children, Regina Zumbach, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Diane (Don) Makovec, Karen (Art) Rokusek, Laura (Henry) Garrigus, Denise (Mike) Erschen, Paula (Larry) Blatnik and Michelle (Arnold) King, all of Dubuque, Iowa, 17 grandchildren and many great grandchildren, four sisters, MaryKay (John) Casper, Judy (Tom) Priebe, Sandy (Mike) Kapparos, Linda (Terry) Weidemann, one brother, Bill (Cheryl) Kramer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, two children, Gary and Debra, his parents, siblings Laverne, Wayne, Marcella and Shirley.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and loving care for Clarence.

Michael P. Kress

Michael P. “Mike” Kress, 63, of Dubuque passed in the early morning hours on June 3rd, 2022 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics after a long, courageous, fight against cancer.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Family and friends may also gather from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 8, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at the church; private family burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Mike was born September 1st, 1958, at Xavier hospital in Dubuque the son of Frances (Myers) Kress and Paul Kress.

Mike earned a B.S. from Iowa State and held Professional Engineer licensure while working at John Deere for 40 years. He was a member of the Lion’s Club and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. He holds a U.S. patent for an innovative invention that improved the hydraulic pumps in John Deere backhoes.

He enjoyed sailing, riding his motorcycle, and restoring 20th century kerosene lanterns and lamps. Most of all, though, Mike loved his children and spent as much time with them as possible.

He is survived by four children, Katie (Andy) Baumhover, Liz Kress, John Kress, and Anna Kress. He is also survived by two grandchildren: four-month-old Frances and a soon-to-be-born baby in July to Anna Kress. Mike is also survived by two brothers, Steven Kress and Bruce Kress, his sister Christine Kress, as well as his father Paul Kress and a host of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother Frances (Myers) Kress, and his brother, Doug Kress.

The family would like to thank all of Mike’s doctors and nurses, especially those that fought for him at the very end.

Kathleen L. Kaiser

Kathleen L. “Kay” Kaiser, 69, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 2, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Mark Ressler officiating. Friends and family may gather from 8:30 a.m. until the start of Mass. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Kay was born on November 15, 1952, in Dubuque, daughter of Erwin and Johanna (Duggan) Kaiser. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1971. She worked for 47 years at Mercy Hospital, and 17 years at Kohl’s.

We held onto her tight, but she was ready for her next adventure. Our hearts are broken. She was a second mom to many.

Surviving are her two sisters Louise (Dave) Ehlinger and Connie Gassen; nieces and nephews Kelly (Jeff) Gerlach, Brian (Heather) Ehlinger, Scott (Sarah) Ehlinger, Nicholas (Kristie Douglas) Ehlinger, Anne (Michelle) Ehlinger, Jodi Gassen, Joshua (Shanqua) Gassen and Kristen (Joseph) Laufenberg.  Great nieces and nephews Sadie Ehlinger, Lindsey (Jake) Fetterer, Haley (Tyler Farrell) Ehlinger, Jacob (Kortni Sieverding) Gerlach, Nathan (Blair) Gerlach, Kelsey Gerlach, Michael and Josie Ehlinger, Quinn and Coen Ehlinger, Haley Dillon, Madelyn, Elizabeth and Wayne Laufenberg and Adam and Kyra Gassen. Great great nieces and nephews Riley, Sydnie and Brody Ehlinger and Stella and Camilla Fetterer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents Louis and Regina Duggan, and Peter and Matilda Kaiser, as well as several aunts and uncles.

Sr. Mary Annette Skyles, PVBM

Sister Mary Annette Skyles, PBVM, 92, died on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at the Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

On Monday, June 6, friends may call from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a wake service at 9:30 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Visitors will be required to show proof of vaccination or wear a mask.

Sister Mary Annette, daughter of Leo and Anna (Nash), was born Barbara Jean Skyles on February 8, 1930, in Mason City, Iowa.  She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Mason City on September 8, 1949, and professed her perpetual vows on June 19, 1955.

Sister Annette earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College (now Clarke University) in Dubuque, Iowa. She served as an elementary teacher for 52 years – teaching grades one through six in Waukon, Osage, Dubuque, Cedar Falls, Epworth, Storm Lake, Key West and Algona, all in Iowa; and Oregon, Illinois. After retiring to Mount Loretto in 2004, she helped manage the Mount Loretto gift shop and stayed active with volunteer work. Sister Annette celebrated her 60^th Jubilee in 2010, at which time she reflected, “I am most thankful to God for all the blessings I have been given: the love and support from my family, community and friends. I thank God for my good health which helped me to be one of God’s instruments in helping children to know the love God has for them. I continue to carry Nano’s lantern by being of service to those with whom I live and work.” Sister Annette enjoyed playing cards, calligraphy, walking, reading, watching sports and helping others. She valued prayer and community service.

Surviving are her nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 72 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Peggy (Harold) Gallagher, Virginia (Marwood) Mulert, and Janet (Ralph) Sturges and her brothers, Robert (Mary), Donald (Nona), Jack (Geneva) and Gerald (Clarice).

The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Dixie M. Lyons

Dixie M. (Carner) Lyons, age 75, of Dubuque, passed away at 1:00 a.m., on Thursday, June 2, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center.  To celebrate Dixie’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Dixie was born on February 12, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Richard and Elnora (Hines) Carner Sr.

Dixie lived in Dubuque and attended Dubuque Senior High School.  She married Dale Lyons on March 22, 1965, in Asbury, Iowa, and they were blessed with 6 wonderful children.  While she was employed at Mt. Carmel and the Dubuque Public Library throughout the years, her primary focus was family. She loved decorating for the holidays, cooking and preparing meals for everyone to share, and taking lots of pictures to hang and admire throughout her home. She was known as the neighborhood “Grandma” sharing treats with all the little ones and flowers from her garden with everyone to enjoy. Dixie left a special impact on everyone she met throughout her life.

Those left to cherish Dixie’s memory include

her children,
Jean (Dan) Allen, Dubuque, IA,
Reva Lyons, Waterloo, IA,
Eric  Lyons, Dubuque, IA,
Timothy Lyons, Dubuque, IA,
Dale Lyons Jr., Dubuque, IA
and Steve Lyons, Dubuque, IA;

18 grandchildren;

her siblings,
Richard “Joe” (Sharon) Carner, Earlville, IA,
Jimmy (Kathy) Carner Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Rick (Julie) Carner Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Gary “Ducky” Carner, Dubuque, IA,
David (Sue) Carner, Dubuque, IA,
Dennis (Sharon) Carner, Dubuque, IA,
Robin Carner, Dubuque, IA,
Scott Carner, Dubuque, IA,
Jeannie (Frank) Marshall Sr., Bernard, IA,
Judy (Dennis) Heiderscheit Sr., Durango, IA,
Terri (Don) Krier Sr., Dubuque, IA
and Betty Young, Dubuque, IA;

and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dixie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dale Lyons Sr.; 2 grandchildren, Damian Lyons and Christian Lyons; her siblings, Frank and Robert Carner and 2 in infancy; and a brother-in-law, Robert Young.

Dixie’s family would like to thank all of the outstanding nurses and staff of both Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and professional care of Dixie.

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

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

Brenda Lee Thurston Burke

Brenda Lee Thurston Burke, age 56, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at her home.  To celebrate Brenda’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:15 p.m., on Monday, June 6, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:30 p.m., on Monday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

Brenda was born on July 26, 1965, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Robert and Charlene (Hedley) Thurston.

Brenda graduated from Hempstead High School in Dubuque.  She was a hard worker and was employed with Kennedy’s Aquarium, FDL, Farmland, and recently retired from Rousselet.  While working at FDL Brenda met Walter Burke, and the couple married on May 12, 1999, at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque.  They happily just celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary.  Brenda truly loved being outdoors.  She liked to go camping with family and friends, fishing and morel hunting.  She was also an avid racing fan regularly attending stock car races.  In recent months she enjoyed spending quiet time at home working on jigsaw puzzles.  Everyone who knew her knew that Brenda also had a great love for her dogs.  Family was always the most important aspect of Brenda’s life and she had a special bond with her nieces and nephews.  We are truly heartbroken at the sudden loss of Brenda in our daily lives.  She will be greatly missed!

Those left to cherish Brenda’s memory include

her husband,
Walter Burke, Dubuque, IA;

2 step-daughters,
Amber Connolly, Dubuque, IA
and Kelly Burke, Dubuque, IA;

5 step-grandchildren;

a sister,
Joyce Jarding, Epworth, IA;

her nieces and nephews,
Jesse Neuhaus, Jaime (Kaleb) Klar, Aubrianna Jarding, Isabella Jarding and Jarrod Jarding;

an aunt,
Sharon (Richard) Carner, Earlville, IA;

and an uncle,
Charles (Ramona) Thurston Jr., Sherrill, IA.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents; her maternal grandfather, Al Hedley; her maternal grandmother, Lillian and John Hendricks; her paternal grandparents, Charles and Bernice Thurston; her step-father, Ralph Thiltgen; a sister, Cindy Thurston; and a brother-in-law, James Neuhaus.

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

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

James L. Husemann

James Louis “Jim” Husemann, age 74 of Asbury, IA passed away on May 31, 2022 at home surrounded by his family.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 7th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Visitation will be held from 10:00a.m. until time of service Tuesday at the funeral home.

Jim was born June 6, 1947 in Dubuque, IA the son of Louis Husemann and Katherine (Doyle) Husemann

He married Kate (McNamer) Husemann on July 30, 1966 at Nativity Church in Dubuque.

Jim retired from John Deere Dubuque Works, worked with his son Jim at Perfection Oil Company, and ran Hoozie’s Hostas from his home.

He was a member of the Dubuque Regional Hosta Society, volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, former Asbury Eagles Club member and former volunteer with the Asbury Fire Department

He was a master gardener and vendor at Dubuque Farmers Market for many years. He introduced and registered many of his own Hosta varieties. He was a talented woodworker, artist and musician. He enjoyed traveling, square dancing and helping with the Dragon Boat Festival. Most nice days he could be found puttering in his gardens and winter days were spent putting together puzzles and experimenting in the kitchen. He enjoyed being a member of the Bazinga trivia team with family and friends. He was an excellent mentor to his Kids, Grandkids, Friends, and Family.

He is survived by his children: James (Kristina) Husemann, Christopher (Leslie) Husemann, and Jenny Husemann; his grandchildren: Jessica (Tommy Meyer) Runde, Timothy Husemann, Melissa (Jon) Sendt, Eric Husemann, Wes Miller and Lauren Crappel; great grandchildren Ian, Kenzlee and David. His significant other Jean McCallum and her children Erin (Tom) Henneberry, Jamie Flowers and her grandchildren Seth, Alyssa, Marissa and Kyle. Six sisters and a brother, Betsy (Jim) Basten, Steve (Rose) Husemann, LouAnn (Mike) Wilson, Sue (Rich) Barrett, Faye (Jim) Herrig, Connie (Randy) Mueller and Carrie (Jeff) Burger. Sisters-in-law Sandy (Gene) Plumley, Patricia (Norm) Boelk, Linda (Pat) Kelly. Brother-in-law Mike (Deana) McNamer and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, and his beloved wife Kate.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital and UIHC doctors, nurses and staff for all their wonderful care.

Carole A. Soppe

Carole A. (Frey) (Pregler) Soppe, age 79, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, June 1, 2022.  To celebrate Carole’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Michael J. Mescher officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Carole was born on June 30, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Cecilia (Begley) Frey.

Carole was a life long Dubuquer.  She was a hard worker and retired from the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino as a count team supervisor after 27 years.  She was united in marriage to Jerry Pregler and together they had 8 children before going their separate ways after 22 years.  Carole would later again find love and marry Theodore “Ted” Soppe on February 15, 1989, in Las Vegas, Nevada.  The couple would enjoy 31 years together before Ted passed away on May 19, 2020.  In her free time Carole loved playing cards whether it be Black Jack at the casino, Euchre League with her siblings or Shanghai with her grandchildren.  She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them whenever she was able to.  We are deeply saddened at losing our wonderful mom and grandma, but find some comfort in knowing that she is now resting peacefully and free of the health issues she has faced these past years.

Those left to cherish Carole’s memory include

her children,
Mark (Kris) Pregler, Waterloo, IA,
Joe (Wendy) Pregler, Dubuque, IA,
Mary (Mike) Belmont, Dubuque, IA,
Judy (Bill) Mauer, Dubuque, IA,
Linda (Rick) Zillig, Asbury, IA,
Brian (Shina) Pregler, Chicago, IL,
Bruce Pregler, Dubuque, IA
and Peggy (Brian) Pregler Leibfried, Dubuque, IA;

her step-son,
Brian (Ann) Meyer, Des Moines, IA;

14 grandchildren,
Justin, C.C., Cameron, Owen, Olivia, Ben, Becca, Brandon, Jonas, Sharlotte, Zach, Hillary, Clara and Evelyn;

a great-grandson,
Jaxon;

her siblings,
Rita (Herb) Bisping, Dubuque, IA
and Connie (Jerry) Bastian, Dubuque, IA;

her brother-in-law,
Jim Badger, Dubuque, IA.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Theodore “Ted” Soppe; and her siblings, David Frey, Kathy Badger and Dan Frey.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, and all of Carole’s care givers throughout the years, for their kind and compassionate care.

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

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

David E. Thompson

David Eugene Thompson, 76, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Thursday June 2, 2022, at Buchanan County Health Center in Independence.

He was born on November 27, 1945 in Greeley, Colorado, the son of Royal Washington and Lillian (Dahooge) Thompson.  Dave was educated in the Greeley, Colorado area and was a member of the United States Navy. He was honorably discharged in May of 1965.  Dave was a truck driver with Paris & Son’s in Masonville and later with Simon’s Grain in Manchester for 16 years until his retirement.

On a visit to his sister in Iowa, Dave met the love of his life, Judy. On June 14, 1975, Dave was united in marriage to Judith Stickley at the United Methodist Church in Manchester. Two children were born to this union. The couple lived in the Manchester area until moving to town in 1989. Dave enjoyed road trips and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his two children, Teresa (Brad) Moore of Maynard and Troy Thompson of Iowa City; two grandchildren, Brad Mast and Riley Sickels; his three brothers, Jerry (Mildred) Thompson of Montrose, Colorado, Rick (Lisa) Thompson of Colorado, Dennis Thompson of Colorado; his sister, Lynn Woellert of Dundee; his sister-in-law, Jan Stickley of Independence; and nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Judith Thompson, his brother, Don Thompson and his brothers-in-law, Lynn Woellert and Jerry Stickley.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

There will be no services at this time.

Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester is assisting the family.