Obituaries Archive

Ralph E. Cummings

Ralph E. Cummings, age 78, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:51 p.m., on Friday, August 5, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Ralph’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Ralph was born on July 8, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of William and Ella (Thompson) Cummings.

Ralph graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1962.  After school he joined the Plumbers and Fitters Union Local 125, where he learned his trade.  Ralph began his career with Berwanger Boiler and went on to work in nuclear power plants until his retirement in 2003.  He was a union man until the very end.  Ralph was united in marriage to Donna Meyer on September 5, 1964, at the Church of the Nativity.  They have been truly blessed with 3 children, 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.  In his free time, Ralph enjoyed taking care of his garden.  He loved caring for his animals and has had numerous dogs and cats throughout the years including his current feline friend, Roxie.  Ralph also loved anything Western, from books and movies to the trips he and Donna took out west on vacation.  In recent years, Ralph and Donna enjoyed going to workout at the Stonehill Health Club, and have become great friends with all of the people there.  Everyone who knew him could attest to the fact that Ralph was a very devoted family man.  Ralph will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Ralph’s memory include

his loving wife of 58 years,
Donna Cummings, Dubuque, IA;

3 children,
Ken (Pam) Cummings, Dickeyville, WI,
Kris (Randy Chaney) Cummings, Omaha, NE
and Keith (Julie) Cummings, Rockford, IL;

his grandchildren,
Tyler (Alix) Cummings,
Keisha Cummings
and Darrian Cummings;

2 great-grandchildren,
Kylan and Ellory Cummings;

his siblings,
Lois Ronek, Dubuque, IA,
Jim (Patricia) Cummings, Peosta, IA,
Ken (Carol) Cummings, DeKalb, IL
and Marjorie Bowerman, Cole Valley, IL;

his sister-in-law,
Kay Waller;

and several nieces and nephews.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Lorraine (Justin) Ronek, Joyce (Jim) Cartmill, Frank (Helen) Hedrick, Don Waller, Geraldine (John) Steil; and 2 brothers-in-law, Charles Ronek and Marty Bowerman.

Ralph’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Ken and Pam Cummings, Sue Schlarman, Laura and Skip Goodendorf and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris and Nikki, for all of their help and outstanding care of Ralph.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that you put an extra buck in the Red Kettles at Christmas time to help support Ralph’s favorite charity, The Salvation Army.

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

William M. Wissing

William M. “Bill” Wissing, age 64, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:00 p.m., on Sunday, August 7, 2022, at Sunnycrest Manor from complications of Huntington’s Disease.  To celebrate Bill’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 6:45 p.m., on Thursday, August 11, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Bill was born on July 10, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of William and Anna Mae (Timmerman) Wissing.

Bill was a life long resident of Dubuque.  After he graduated, Bill went to work moving containers at Swiss Valley Farms for 24 years until his retirement due to health issues.  He was a sports fan and liked watching NASCAR, the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco 49ers.  He was the Council President at Sunnycrest and truly enjoyed his time there interacting with the staff and other residents.  Bill always made the best of whatever life brought his way and we will miss his presence in our daily lives.

Those left to cherish Bill’s memory include

his brother,
James (Carol) Wissing, Hazel Green, WI;

and 2 nieces,
Shelby Wissing and Ashley Wissing, both of Hazel Green, WI.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ronald Wissing; and a sister, Sandra Lee Wissing.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Sunnycrest Manor for their care and friendship given to Bill these past years and to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion.

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

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

Jeanette Welu

Jeanette “Jean” Welu, 87, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, August 8, 2022, at home.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, where there will be a parish wake service at 6:30 pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1 pm Friday at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

To view the livestream of the funeral mass, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Jean was born April 15, 1935 in St. Catherine’s the daughter of Daniel J. and Armella (Thole) Herbst. She was educated at the one-room schoolhouse in Zwingle, where she grew up on a farm. In 1953, she graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque. Jeanette married Robert E. Welu on June 28, 1958 at Assumption Catholic Church, Zwingle. He preceded her in death on May 22, 2003.

Jean was employed at Trausch Baking Co. and the Dubuque Packing Co. until her retirement in 1968.

Jean was a loving mother whose faith was very important to her. She attended Mass daily and was member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where she was a very active volunteer.

Jeanette is survived by two children, Jon (Carrie) Welu and Paula (Kevin Birch) Welu, both of Dubuque; her grandchildren, Ryan, Rena, Payton, Katelyn, Lillian, Chandler, and Alexis; her great-grandchildren, Jaden, Jalen, Jaliona, Chloe and Rosalie; her sister, Charlotte (Bill) Tindell; two brothers, Leo (Sheila) Herbst, and Paul (Patricia) Herbst; two sisters in law, Adele Palmer and Carole Welu; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her sister and brother in law Louise and Robert McCarty; her brother and sister in law Robert and Charlotte Herbst; her sister-in-law Deanna Herbst; and her parents-in-law Ray and Marie Welu.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Jeanette Welu Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank Brittany and Lindsey from Hospice of Dubuque East team and close family friend, Juliann Kruse for all of their loving care and support.

Margaret Smith

Margaret “Maggie” Smith, 81, of Dubuque, passed of natural causes on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Lantern Park Care Initiatives in Coralville, IA.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd, Dubuque.

The Funeral Service to celebrate Maggie’s life will be at 4:00 pm on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Burial will occur at a later date at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Margaret, the daughter of Emil and Molita (Dawson) Reding, was born on February 3, 1941, in Dubuque, IA.

Maggie attended the Academy of the Visitation for Women High School, Class of 1959, and Nativity Catholic School. In 1957 she married Jerome F. Blocklinger and they were blessed with five children. For ten years they owned the Hof Brau Haus tavern in East Dubuque, IL. She married Richard “Dick” Smith of Dubuque in 1979 and they celebrated 30 years of marriage in April of 2009. Maggie spent 25 years as a realtor/broker and rental property manager before retiring from Duggan Realty in 2013.

Her hobbies and interests included playing club euchre at the American Legion Post #6 and golfing at Galena Golf Club. In high school, Maggie loved to roller skate and swim, where she was a lifeguard at Municipal Pool in Dubuque.

Surviving is her daughter, Peggy Thill and her husband, Jim, of Dubuque; her son, Paul Blocklinger and his wife, Amie, of Coralville; two daughers-in-law, Lynn Blocklinger of Liberty Hill, TX, and Lisa Blocklinger of Largo, FL; nine grandchildren, Aaron, Kelsey, Lindsey, Drew, Bryan, Tina, Michael, Jaimie, and Jessica; 13 great-grandchildren; and four step-daughters, Pam, Patsy, Peg, and Penny.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sons, Bart, David, and Ken Blocklinger, a brother, Jay Reding, and her husband, Richard “Dick” Smith.

A memorial has been established.

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

Carrie Larsen Bell

Carrie Larsen Bell, age 63, of Lancaster, passed away on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. She was born on October 7, 1958, in Lancaster, the daughter of Cletus and Vivian (Irish) Potter. On June 14, 1991, she was united in marriage to Robert “Rob” Bell. Carrie enjoyed her work in catering with her dear friends Darrin Miles and Dee Jensen at The Lancaster Country Club.

She is survived by her husband; her son, Craig (Jaclyn Williams) Larsen of Middleton; sister, Jean (Curt) Dobson, of Lancaster; niece, Sherri (Denny) Furuseth of Lancaster; and sister-in-law, Beth Potter, of Oshkosh.

Carrie is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Jerry Potter.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. at Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Lancaster with Pastor Pamela Strakeljahn officiating. Services will be livestreamed on Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page beginning at 3:00 p.m.. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank Lancaster Health Services for the amazing, loving care they provided for Carrie.

Online Condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Kristi Botis

Kristi Botis, 66 of Galena, IL and formerly of Kewanee, passed away Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community surrounded by her family and friends. A funeral service will be held at Noon, Friday, August 12, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Hazel Green Cemetery, Hazel Green, WI.

She was born on September 4, 1955, in Kewanee the daughter of John E. and Joann (Wasson) Larson. Following her biological father’s death at the age of two, she was raised by her mother Joann and her “Dad” Lester Jones. Kristi was the middle child of three siblings. Kristi graduated from Weathersfield High School in 1973 and moved to Moline, IL where she met her beloved husband Takis while attending “La James” beauty school. She was married to Takis on April 29, 1974, and together they had three children AnnaJo, Elizabeth, and Victoria. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She spent most of her working life in the restaurant industry as an owner/operator with her husband. Kristi had a passion for travel and tourism and continued her education at AIC earning her degree. She spent many summers vacationing in Greece with her husband and children. In her free time, you could always find her baking, reading cookbooks, and listening to music. She enjoyed watching re-runs of Mash and giving her three daughters a “Hard Time”, She was first and foremost Sassy and very Feisty!

Surviving are her three children; Anna Jo Botis of Hanover Il, Elizabeth Botis of Galena, and Victoria (Carl) Belger of Elizabeth Il, her previous sons-in-law, Chris Dunlop, Jesse Harris, Robert Rodgers, and Phillip Surprenant, and eight grandchildren, Brandon Dunlop, Chase Goers, Alexandrea (Lexi)Dunlop, Makayla Rodgers, Kristina (Sissy) Rodgers, Zoe Harris, Michael Suprenant, and David Suprenant, and four great-grandchildren, Cameron Dunlop, Jasper Dunlop, Riley Dunlop, and Kole Havens, two sisters, Kathy (Burt) Wright of Mattoon, IL and Dawn (Danny) Sawickis of Spring Hill, FL and many cousins, nieces, and nephews some residing in the USA and others in Greece.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two nephews, a niece, and her grandson, Cameron Dunlop.

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

Robert H. Wahlert

James E. and Donna J. Mueller

James E. “Jim” Mueller, 76, and Donna J. Mueller, 75, of Janesville, Wisconsin, passed away Thursday August 4 and Friday, August 5, 2022 in Lafayette Park, Washington D.C. as a result of an unfortunate lightning strike. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 12, 2022, at St. William Catholic Church, Janesville, Wisconsin, with Rev. James Leeser officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Friday at the church.

Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 13 in St. Rose Church Cemetery, Cuba City, Wisconsin. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City, Wisconsin is assisting the family.

Jim was born on January 20, 1946, in Hazel Green, Wisconsin, the son of Edward and Mabel (Wiegman) Mueller. Donna was born on December 12, 1946, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, the daughter of George and Helen (Mitchell) McQuade. Jim and Donna were high school sweethearts and were married on July 30, 1966 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin.  Thereafter, Jim was drafted into the Wisconsin Army National Guard where he was initially stationed in California and remained active for 6 years.  Jim and Donna moved from Cuba City to Janesville, in pursuit of new opportunities which resulted in a family-owned drywall business, as well as Donna’s successful completion of a teaching degree at UW-Whitewater.

The most important aspect of the lives of Jim and Donna was any opportunity to spend time with family and friends.  Jim was also an active Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus while Donna carved a place within the local Serra Club.  Jim was an avid sports fan that included being a lifelong devotee of the Milwaukee Braves, and then Atlanta Braves.  Donna was a family party organizing enthusiast and an avid reader of historical fiction.

The family-owned business, Jim Mueller and Sons Drywall, thrived for over 55 years, where Jim’s sons actively participated in its success.  Donna was a popular teacher in the private and public schools.

Coming from a farming background, Jim imparted his love for animals onto each of his children.  Dogs have always been an important part of the Mueller family.  Jim and Donna had a reputation as talented dancers at any wedding reception or any other dance party.

Jim and Donna are survived by their five children, Michelle (James) Paloucek, Brookfield, WI, Matthew (Rebecca Bandelaria) Mueller, New Albany, OH, Mitchell (Mylisa) Mueller, Midlothian, TX, Maurice (Kelly) Mueller, Oregon, WI, and Markus (fiancée, Carol) Mueller, Janesville, WI; their ten grandchildren, Meredith Paloucek, Olivia Paloucek, Kalup (Allison) Mueller, Emily (Austin) Petermeier, Nicholas (fiancée,  Malea) Mueller, James Mueller, Joseph Mueller, Devri, Dreenah, Liam Mueller, and four great-grandchildren, Luke and Stella Mueller, and Emma Leigh and Grayson Petermeier; Donna’s siblings, Jim (Mary Jo) McQuade, Georgia (Howdie) Murray, and John (Jane) McQuade, all of Cuba City, WI; Jim’s siblings, Eugene (Debbie) Mueller, Shullsburg, WI, Marilyn (Bob Powers) Mueller, West Des Moines, IA, and DiAnne (Chris Frey) Mueller, St. Louis, MO; and a sister-in-law, Linda McQuade Janesville, WI.

They were preceded in death by their parents; Donna’s brother, Mike McQuade; and Jim’s sisters, Judy (Clarence) Berning and Joyce (Jim Valaskey) Mueller; and nephews Joseph, Jeff, and Frank Berning and Max McQuade.

In lieu of flowers, a James and Donna Mueller Memorial Fund has been established. Donations may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI  53807.

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

Daniel Burrows

Daniel “Dan” Burrows, 68, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2022, at St. Dominic’s Villa, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Monday, August 15, 2022, at Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Galena.

Dan was born on June 18, 1954, to Clyde and Delores Burrows in Dubuque, IA. He became a Dallas Cowboys fan at age 6 and was a part of the Junior Dukes, Colt 45, and Colts for 12 years. He married Kathleen Kelly of Galena, IL, on August 24, 1974. Dan led a busy life managing his business, Burrows Accounting, and Tax Service for over 50 years. He also loved his work in sales at Klauer Manufacturing, where he worked for 46 years. He served on the Galena Ambulance team for 5 years and served 15 years with the Galena Volunteer Fire Department. In his free time, Dan enjoyed sharing his love of music, golfing, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is best known for being an amazing dad to his three children, Molly (Mike) Burrows Schumacher, David (Kari) Burrows, and Amanda (Nathan) Ehrler. Dan loved spending time with his grandchildren Max, Niya, Eugene, and Daniel Schumacher; Maggie, Mia, and Mariella Burrows; and Zack, Abby, and Maddie Ehrler.

He is survived by his loving wife Kathy, his children and grandchildren, his sisters Bonnie (Terry) Maas, Linda (Jack) Plowman, and Tammy (Ken) Plowman, as well as his sisters-in-law Colleen (Pat) Keleher, Patty (Bill) Boggs, and Cindy Kelly; and brothers-in-law Jim (Karen) Kelly and Mike (Deb) Kelly, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who were very dear to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father-in-law Jim and Pat Kelly, his brothers Clyde Burrows Jr. and Timothy Burrows; his sister Judy Rollinger, and brother-in-law Ed Rollinger.

Dan and his family would like to express their sincerest thanks to the team at St. Dominic’s Villa, Hospice of Dubuque, the Mercy Cancer Center Team, Tim from Lift for his ride home, and the Galena and Hazel Green Ambulance Services for their care and support.

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

George L. Roeder

George L. Roeder, 90, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away on Friday, August 5, 2022, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Bellevue American Legion Post #273.

George LaVerne Roeder was born on March 25, 1932 in Andrew, Iowa, to LaVerne and Helen (Tebben) Roeder.  He grew up in Andrew and was a 1949 graduate of Andrew High School.  He then served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge.  George was also able to go on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. and visit the memorials.  He married JoAnn R. “Johnnie” Fatchett on May 10, 1953 in DeWitt, Iowa.  Six children were born to this union, Jackie, Kris, Cindy, Billi, Mike, and Tod.

George had worked as a truck driver his entire working life, owning and operating Roeder Trucking.  He had also worked as the manager for Bellevue Grain for 5 years and lastly was employed as a full-time school bus driver for the Andrew Community Schools.

George was a member of the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75, Andrew AMVETS Post #62, Moose Lodge of Clinton, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa.  He had also previously served as a member of the Andrew Fire Department.

George liked reading, watching television (especially RFD) and watching western shows, fishing, mushroom hunting, and gambling.  He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Jackie (Don) Regan of Andrew, IA, Kris (Denny) Stanton of Maquoketa, IA, Cindy (Jim) Bliss of LaMotte, IA, Billi Schroeder of Bellevue, IA, Mike (Ronda) Roeder of Andrew, IA, and Tod Roeder of Andrew, IA; 19 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife “Johnnie” on July 7, 2009, and 2 sisters.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Andrew First Responders/Andrew Fire Department.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Andrew First Responders/Andrew Fire Department, Jackson County Regional Health Center Ambulance Crew, and the Jackson County Regional Health Center.

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

John W. Reifsteck

John W. Reifsteck, 76 of Naperville, IL passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2022. A funeral service will be held at Noon, Thursday, August 11, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may call after 10 AM, until the time of service. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

He was born April 8, 1946, in Savanna, IL the son of Clyde and Dorothy (Williams) Reifsteck. He attended Hanover High School, Hanover, IL. John served in the United States Army from 1966 serving three tours in Vietnam until his honorable discharge in 1972. He earned several accommodations, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, five Overseas Bars, Air Medal with 23rd OLC, and expert M16. John was united in marriage to Marcia Pearl Norman on September 12, 1970, in Galena. He was employed by Northwestern Steel and Wire, Aftermath, Inc, and Ward, Murray, Pace, and Johnson Law Firm. John enjoyed bowling, playing cards, coin Collecting, hunting, fishing, coaching youth baseball and football, and raising show rabbits. He was a member of Moose Lodge of Sterling, IL, and the Blackhawk Bowling League.

John is survived by his wife, Marcia, three sons, Tim (Sara) Reifsteck, of Naperville, Kevin (Tabitha) Reifsteck, of Yorkville, IL, and Bryan (Jamie Burfield) Reifsteck, of Plainfield, IL, seven grandchildren, Terrion, Aurora, Austin, Breven, Makenzie, Blake, and Cole, four great-grandchildren, Makoa Dunn, Kailo Dunn, Sophia Petry, Trinity Lewis, two brothers, Joe Reifsteck, of Sterling, IL, and Joel (Molly) Reifsteck, of Freeport, IL, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jean Heller, and a brother, Jerry Reifsteck.

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

Michael T. Seyer

Michael Timothy Seyer, 74, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at home surrounded by his loved ones.

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

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mike will be 10:30 am Monday, August 8, 2022, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Michael was born August 3, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Irving W. and Cecilia Karpus Seyer. On January 9, 1967, he married Heidi Ann Brown in Dubuque.

He was a 1965 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School. He attended University of Dubuque and University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Mike founded MTS Company, L.C. in 1993.

He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, longtime member of Rotary Club of Dubuque, and past president of DACFAR. He had many hobbies. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed woodworking, photography, painting, Euchre, socializing, and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Heidi; four sons, Jeff Seyer of Lake Forest, IL, Eric (Connie) Seyer of Dubuque, Chris (Tammy) Seyer of North Carolina, and Tim (Dena) Seyer of Dubuque; one daughter, Becky (Jeremy) Schmidt of Dubuque; 12 grandchildren, Meredith, Cameron, Austin, Garrett, Megan, Jared, Ella, Alyssa, Alana, Kylie, Will, and Charlie; two brothers, Steve (Liz) Seyer of Fort Atkinson, WI, and Terry (Laura) Dement of Marion, IA; and two sisters, Cindy (Massa) Campton and Wendy (Ray) Schickel, both of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, his mother- and father-in-law, and one sister-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially his care team, Kris O., Ryan, and Nicole, and a special thank you to his caregiver, Stacey, and Dr. Hermann.

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

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

Delbert Manders

Delbert “Del” Manders, 90, of Dubuque, died Monday, August 1, 2022, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, August 11, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Del will be 10:00 am Friday, August 12, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steve Garner as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Del was born July 22, 1932, in St. Catherines, IA, the son of Joseph and Christine Herbst Manders.  On May 18, 1957, he married Alice Rose Hannan at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rickardsville, IA.  She preceded him in death on June 3, 2003.

Del was a U.S. Marines Veteran, serving during the Korean War from February 11, 1953 until February 10, 1956.

Coming from a larger family of 15, which struggled at times to put food on the table, those early years defined him.  Working until retirement at Frommelt Industries/Rite Hite.  He loved hunting squirrels to help feed his family, but his passion was for metal scrapping.  Soon he started returning from his weekend hunting trips with more scrap metal in his game bag than the game itself, spending more time rummaging through junk piles than hunting.  His reputation grew and he quickly became known as the person to give your junk to, stripping it apart and meticulously separating the metal by type and grade.  He would spend hours upon hours breaking down the junk for recycling.  Playing cards was another passion he had and getting together with family every month for an afternoon of snacks and card games.  In Del fashion of not wanting to waste anything, he would play solitaire with the same deck of cards until he wore the ink off of them, even though he had about 50 new decks of cards that had been given to him over the years.  He also enjoyed watching John Wayne movies.  Over the years, Del traveled, he was very proud of the grill he made and the many steak fries it was used for.  Del cherished time spent with his family.

Survivors include his children, Joan (Dan) Fawcett of Forman, ND; Vickie (Steve) Connolly of Dubuque; Cathy Manders of Dubuque; Mike (Kathy) Manders of Laurel, MT; Mark (Julie) Manders of Granger, IA; Tim Manders of Farley, IA; Jill (Mike) McClanahan of Dubuque; Carla Manders of Dubuque; 26 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; siblings, Vince Manders, Arlene Kohn, Darlene Klosterman, Luella (Paul) Lueken, Mary Jane Burcham, and Margie (Pat) Stegar; sisters-in-law, Marie Manders, Dorothy (Melvin) Brecht, Carol Hannan, and Norma Perry; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by seven siblings, Lester (Doris) Manders, Sylvester (Rosemary) Manders, Jerry (Kay) Manders, Norman (Rosie) Manders, Harold (Diane) Manders, George (Joyce) Manders, and Shirley (Jim) Theisen; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jim Kohn, Carl Klosterman, Mary Manders, John (Deloras) Hannan, Bud Hannan, Dick Hannan, Gene Hannan, Bill Hannan, and Kay (Leon) Link.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tom and Laurie and Tom and Sara for their love and support over the years.

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

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

Eugene J. Foust

Euguene J. Foust, Sr. 93, of Zwingle, our beloved Dad, father-in-law, and Papa, completed his earthly journey Thursday, August 4th, 2022 at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 8th, 2022, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Msgr. Thomas Toale Officiating. Burial will be in Assumption Catholic Church Cemetery, Sylvia Switch. Visitation to honor Gene’s life will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, August 7th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a prayer service will be held at 4:45 p.m. by Deacon John Stierman.

Gene was born August 14, 1928, in rural Zwingle, seventh of Henrietta (Pancratz) and Rudolph Foust’s eight children. He attended Buncombe School, graduating at 8th grade.

Gene met Geri Dunne, the love of his life, in the blackberry patch on the Dunne family farm in Andrew, IA. Gene and Geri married August 14, 1950, at St. John’s Church in Andrew.  They celebrated their 50th Anniversary in 2000.  Geri died November 23, 2009.

Shortly after they married, the Army sent Gene to Germany during the Korean War. After returning from the service, Gene and Geri were lifelong Dubuque County residents.  Gene was a dairy, hog, and beef farmer; he was also an Occo and Yoder feed sales representative.  He was a self-starter who believed in an honest day’s work.

Gene appreciated the importance of family and friendships. Gene and Geri enjoyed gardening, fishing vacations in MN and WI, and dancing at Melody Mills. Gene also enjoyed playing Euchre and poker with his in-laws. He could always bring a smile to the face of anyone lucky enough to spend a little time with him. His friendly spirit and hearty laugh will always be remembered.

Those left behind to cherish memories of Gene include sons Euguene Jr.(aka: Jim, Gene) (wife Sharon Collins-Bradley), Gary (Colleen), Duane (Brenda); daughters Dina (Dan) Seifert, and Tressa (Martin) Manders; grandsons Sean (Shelly), Thad, and Jamin (Emilie) Foust; Kyle (Nicole) and Kristin Manders; granddaughters Dr. Desirae (Wayne) Wheatcraft, Cassandra (Justin) Birdd, Lindsay (Matthew) Johnson, Trisha (Dan) Petersen, and Bethany (Tyson) Steel; and step-grandchildren Brian (Kim), Mark (Kerry) and Jeff (Rachel) Bradley.  Gene is also survived by in-laws Mary Foust and Marie (Bob) Dierks, former daughter-in-law Ann Foust, & former grand-daughter-in-law Brenda Willenbring Foust.; great grand-daughters Madeline (Travis Galle), Isabella, Willa, and Avila Foust, Camiel Manders, Hailey Petersen, Alexandria Johnson, Ava, Ella, Jaylyn, and Charlotte Bradley, Abrianna Marr, Kayla and Jessalyn Birdd; great grand-sons Verrick, Ellison, and Henning Foust, Gabe and Mitch Manders, Landon and Malachi Petersen, Isaiah Johnson, AJ, Austin (Autumn), Kyle and Jordan Bradley; and great-great-grandchildren Riley Jo Lamey, Ava Marr, Jaxon and Weslon Birdd; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Euguene was preceded in death by his wife Geri, their son Calvin, Gene’s parents, father- and mother-in-law James & Catherine Dunne; sisters Emily (Howard) Herron, Janet (Al) Kemp, Joan (Leo) Arensdorf; brothers Martin (in infancy), John (Florence, Gen), Quinten (Jean), and Carlos Foust; brothers-in-law Martin (Marie) and Bill (Phyllis) Dunne; and very special friend Cecilia Gavin.

Gene’s family greatly appreciate and give thanks for Bethany Home staff and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care of Gene. Their sincere gentleness and kind hearts truly made a difference, which we will never forget.

Robert F. Hall

Robert F. Hall, 83 of Galena, IL passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at UnityPoint St. Luke’s Hospital Cedar Rapids, IA. A funeral service will be held 11 AM, Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born November 11, 1938, in Elizabeth, IL the son of Leonard and Ethel (Hughes) Hall. Bob was a graduate of Galena High School with the class of 1956. He went on to attend UW Platteville and Chicago Technical College studying Architecture and Construction. He served in the US Naval Reserve based out of Great Lakes Naval Base. Bob was united in marriage to Carol J Schultz on February 14, 1958, at the Galena United Methodist Church. She preceded him in death on September 21, 2013.

Bob was a self-employed contractor for many years, before going to work with Kraemer Brothers Construction. He also served as a part time deputy with the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Department. After retiring, Bob became active in the Illinois wine industry as a grower, producing fruit for award winning wines and as a board member for the regional and state wine councils. Bob enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping. He was a member of the Moose Club and Galena Jaycees.

Bob is survived by his children, Cathy (Dan) Wienen, Dan and Lisa (Kern) Hall, and Russ and Sue (Hayes) Hall, three grandchildren, Anna (Wienen) and Jay Williams, Brian and Megan (Goodwin) Wienen, Hunter Hall and friend Kennedy Salow, three great-grandchildren, Trevor Williams, Bailey Williams, and Penelope Wienen, sister and brother in-law, JoAnne (Hall) and Melvin Huttenlocher, three nieces, Luanne (Rick) Ferguson, Linda (Paul) Connor and Mary Hesselbacher.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Midwest Medical Center and Unity Point – St. Luke’s for their compassionate care.

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