Obituaries Archive

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Jeffrey L. Hansen

Jeffrey Lee Hansen, 68, died at his home in Maquoketa, Iowa, on February 18, 2022.  He was born on July 13, 1953, in Maquoketa to Edward and Arlene (Paarmann) Hansen. He graduated from Delwood High School and worked for Farmers Supply in Delmar and helped on the family farm.  He married Peggy Nelson on April 22, 1978.

He enjoyed enjoyed being outdoors and going to the casinos weekly till covid started.  Later in life his passion was mowing lawns with his favorite John Deere lawn tractor.

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Doug Hansen, father-in-law Ronald Nelson, and a brother-in-law Patrick Nelson. He is survived by his wife Peggy and son Kevin of Maquoketa; a sister Colleen (Ray) Scott of Wisconsin; sister-in-law Tina Hansen of Maquoketa; mother-in-law Kay Nelson of Dubuque; brother-in-law Ken (Lori) Nelson of Dubuque; sister-in-law Rita (Doug) Kandel of Lake Forest, California; many nieces and nephews; and 1 God child Lexi Kandel (who he adored) of Lake Forest, California.

Memorials may be directed to the St. Judes Hospital.

A private celebration of his life will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

 


 

Marilyn J. Engling

Marilyn J. Engling, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 20, 2022 at home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 24th, 2022 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. Lyle Wilgenbusch officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service at 3:00 p.m.

Marilyn was born on September 5, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Earl and Minnie (Lei) Rapp. She married Elmer Engling on January 15th, 1955; Marilyn and Elmer camped at Bagley where they formed lifelong friendships and made several trips to Las Vegas. Marilyn enjoyed reading, country music and playing the slots. What brought her the greatest joy were weekly visits with friends and spending time with family.

She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Elmer; her children, Laurie (Mike) Hancock, Ginny (Curt) Schumacher, Pat (Jacque) Engling, Tony (Dawn) Engling and Mike (Virge) Engling. She is also survived by her eleven grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren; her sister Jeanne (Jerry) Fudge and a sister-in-law Elaine Rapp.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Eileen (Joye) Bellings, Earl (Myra) Rapp, Jr., Robert Rapp, Patricia (Harold) Kemler, John (Lillian) Rapp, and Jerry (Dixie) Rapp; her in-laws Marie (Sylvester) Kluesner, Viola (William) Kaufman, Cecilia (Russ) Gantenbein, Agnes (Herman) Steines and Dorothy (Larry) Lucas.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque especially her nurse Kris O. as well as Dr. Sara Loetscher and Dr. John Whalen for the excellent care they gave to Marilyn.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in memory of Marilyn.

 


 

Kelvin J. Orton

Kelvin “Hobbes” J. Orton, age 55, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 19, 2022. He was born on October 11, 1966 in Dubuque, IA to Joseph and Loretta (Spease) Orton. Kelvin was a graduate of Cuba City, WI High School and then attended UW-Platteville where he was a fraternity member at Sigma Pi.

Kelvin married Cathy Cheesman on May 20, 1995. He went on to dedicate many years for Sussex Tool and Supply.

Kelvin was quite the jokester. He loved telling jokes and making people laugh. He was a talented cook. If there was ever anyone in need, Kelvin was there to lend a hand.

Kelvin is survived by his wife Cathy; children Joe and William Orton; father Joe (Linda) Orton; mother Loretta (the late Vic) Prevatt. He is further survived by his brother Derek Orton; parents-in-law Ross (Noreen) Cheesman; sister-in-law Betsy (Tony) Sardina; and brother-in-law Robert (Angie) Cheesman; and many other relatives and dear friends.

Visitation was held on Sunday, February 27, 2022 at CRESS SUN PRAIRIE. If you were not able to join us in person, please register at the following link to view Kelvin’s service: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=7c91649c-8aa7-42e8-8f78-8a6d97629f1f
Cress Funeral Service
1310 Emerald Terrace
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
608-837-9054
Please share your memories at
www.CressFuneralService.com

 


 

Becky S. Stratton

Becky S. Stratton, 67, of Dubuque, died Monday, February 21, 2022, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, February 24, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Becky was born January 27, 1955, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Bud and Betty Lou (Thoeni) Hunt. She married Don Stratton in 1987.  He passed away on January 5, 2012.

She graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School.

Becky worked as a press operator at Regency for 20 years.  She then went on to work in the fast food industry as a manager for Burger King.

Becky enjoyed crafting and giggling, loved horses, dogs, camping and decorating.  Becky enjoyed the simpleness of things being able to enjoy a great sunset with friends and family.  She always enjoyed family get-together’s and her time with Don.

Survivors include two sons, Joseph (Sarah Blindert) Knabel and Jeremy Knabel, both of Dubuque; sister, Bonnie K. (Rick) Stratton of Dubuque; brother, Bob J. (Sandy) Hunt of St. Donatus; two grandchildren, Ben & Maddie Knabel; mother-in-law, Rose Stratton of Maquoketa and nieces & nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents and father-in-law, Bob Stratton.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

 


 

Frederick J. Pape Jr.

Frederick J. Pape Jr., 86, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022, at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Friday, February 25, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. Jim Miller officiating. Burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery, New Vienna, where military honors will be accorded. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 24, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a parish wake service at 6:30 p.m.

Frederick was born July 16, 1935, the son of Fred and Abeline (Pasker) Pape Sr. He graduated from Loras Academy and later from Loras College. Fred served in the U.S. Army.

He married Nancy Richman on May 21, 1958 at Church of the Nativity, Dubuque. She preceded him in death on November 19, 2017, after 59 years of marriage.

Fred was employed for many years at American Trust & Savings Bank as Senior Vice President, and at Farber Bag & Supply in multiple roles.

Fred was an avid sports fan, and especially enjoyed cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bears, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. In his prime he enjoyed golfing.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Tami (Pape) Bozarth of Dallas, TX, and Michael (Penny) Pape of Hampshire, IL; his grandchildren, Jeffery (Jenifer) Bozarth, Victoria Bozarth, and Matthew Bozarth, all of Dallas, TX,  Brandon (Fiancée Jackie Loveless) Pape of Dubuque, Chloe Brown, of Ames, and Mackenna Brown, of Hampshire, IL; and his great grandchildren, Sebastian, William, Carter, Noah, Lorelai, and Mila.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a son-in-law, William Bozarth; and his parents-in-law, Ralph and Naomi Richman.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Church of the Nativity or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at MercyOne Critical Care Unit and the Cancer Center; Hospice of Dubuque; Dr. Raymond Roewe, Dr. Eric Engelman, Dr. Ryan Stille, and Dr. RS Ramabadran for their excellent care of Fred over the years.

 


 

Clyde L. Bradley

Clyde L. Bradley, Jr. 86, of Dubuque passed away Monday February 21, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center.

Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road, with a service to conclude at 7:00 p.m.

Clyde was born on November 11, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Clyde and Helen (Lebben) Bradley Sr.  He married Donna Mae Lang on February 5, 1955, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque. He worked at an assembler at Dubuque John Deere Tractor Works until his retirement and was a member of the UAW Local #94.

Clyde loved the outdoors especially hunting and fishing or just spending time on the river.

He is survived by his four children: Rick Bradley, of Dubuque, Vicki (Ray) Doyle, of Darlington, WI, Tim (Jana) Bradley, of Hayward, WI, and Jody (Pat) Maas, of Dubuque; his 9 grandchildren Ricki, Shelly, Tara, Mitch, Joe, Amy, Ben, Mike, and Nick; and his 17 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Helen, his wife Donna Mae, a son Terry, two grandchildren Austin and Violet Maas, and a sister Patricia Carter.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque especially his guardian angel’s Nicole and Peggy for all the great care they gave to our Dad and Grandpa.

 


 

Robert A. Burgmeier

Robert A. “Bob” Burgmeier, 89, of East Dubuque, Illinois, went to heaven on February 20th in his home, at Frentress Lake, surrounded by family and his loving wife, Mary.

Visitation will take place on Friday, February 25th from 3-7pm at St. Mary Catholic Church, 170 Montgomery Ave., East Dubuque, IL. Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church on the following day, Saturday, February 26th at 10:30am with a visitation one hour before the mass. Masks are recommended at both gatherings. Burial will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery directly after the service. The Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL is entrusted with arrangements.

Bob was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on December 17, 1932, and grew up spending his summers at Frentress Lake. It was there that Bob met his life-long love, Mary Schnee. On August 1, 1953, they married at Sacred Heart Church and were blessed with eight children.

Bob attended St. Columbkille Elementary School and graduated from Loras Academy. He made the Iowa High School First team All-State football team. He attended Loras College and graduated from the University of Detroit in 1954. Bob was the fourth-highest rusher in the nation his junior year. He played with the Canadian Football League’s Calgary Stampeders for a short time. In the years after, Bob fed his competitive spirit with other endeavors, such as handball, bridge and duplicate bridge. Always a determined competitor, his brother, Dick, says of him, “Bob never let you win; you had to earn it.”

Bob spent his career in the transportation business, working for Chicago Dubuque Transport, Dohrn Transfer, and retiring from Consolidated Freightways. After Bob’s retirement, Bob and Mary spent many winters traveling to Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico visiting her sister.  In addition, they traveled to see their children and extended family.

Bob developed his love of the river and the outdoors early on. As a young teenager, he built a boat with his friend, which they piloted down the Mississippi River to New Orleans one summer. As one might expect, the return voyage took quite a bit longer, but they made it back as far north as St. Louis. That adventurous spirit extended throughout Bob’s life.

Bob’s warmth and kindness were appreciated by all who met him. A true family man in every sense, he was a devoted husband and a steadfast father. He was adored by his many grandchildren, their spouses, and great-grandchildren for his love, patience, and youthful energy. Bob knew how to enjoy all the simple pleasures in life; a quiet morning on the deck watching the birds, a daily 5-mile walk with a friend, a good game of cards, an evening spent around the bonfire with neighbors, or a cold ice cream. His favorite times were always on the water – fishing, boating, hunting, or camping – alongside the love of his life, Mary, family, and friends.

Bob was a member of the Holy Name Society and 49 year member of Dubuque Elks Lodge #297.  He was one of the founding members of the Wahlert High School Booster Club and enjoyed volunteering at annual Hillcrest Lights Festival.

Bob is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mary R. Schnee Burgmeier; children Debra (Joseph) Schiesl; Robert (Carol) Burgmeier; David (Rose Ann) Burgmeier; Daniel (Mary) Burgmeier; Jane (David) Dowd; Paul (Shauna) Burgmeier; Julie (Robert Lutgen) Burgmeier and Lisa (Greg) Herber, 30 grandchildren and 37 (plus one on the way) great-grandchildren; siblings Richard “Dick” (Marlene) Burgmeier, Carol Dolan, and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Alphonse and Frances Burgmeier, and siblings Jim (Joanne) Burgmeier, Joseph Burgmeier (infant), Jack (Pat) Burgmeier, and Marilyn Muir.

The family would like to thank Steve and Ann Osterberger for their many years of friendship, love, and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be given in honor of Robert A. Burgmeier to Hospice of Dubuque, Dubuque Boys and Girls Club, East Dubuque Area Ambulance, or Clarity Clinic of Dubuque.

 


 

Daniel R. Sertle

Daniel R. Sertle, 62, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family Saturday morning, February 19, 2022. A celebration of life will begin at Noon, Saturday, February 26, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL, where friends may call after 9 AM until Noon. Military honors will be presented immediately following by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. Burial will be at later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.

He was born in Dubuque, IA on October 5, 1959, one of eight children to Max Sr. and Corrine (Knautz) Sertle. Dan attended St. Mary’s Grade School and left Galena High School to join the United States Army in 1977. He received his honorable discharge in 1980. Dan went on to earn his GED and attended Highland Community College for HVAC. He married Ann M. Holman of Galena on June 21, 1980, at First Presbyterian Church, Galena. Dan worked in the HVAC industry his entire life and co-owned Holland Heating & Air Conditioning, Galena, for over twenty years. He had various hobbies such as gardening and working in his yard over the years. Dan enjoyed working in his woodshop and made all kinds of things for his home. He was a proud and life-long Bears fan. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi River and in recent years became a Blackstone grill master. He enjoyed spending summer nights looking towards the sky through his telescope. Dan loved science fiction books, movies, and television shows. He was a member of the Galena Elks Lodge and Eagles Club. Dan started the Pirate’s Closet at Dillon’s Bar which helped school-age kids in need of supplies and clothing. Every morning he met with friends, who were like family, at Dillon’s for breakfast to solve the world’s problems.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ann; two children who he loved dearly and was very proud of, Kelli (Chris) Jackson of Galena, IL and Jesse Sertle of Sun Prairie, WI, and two grandchildren who he adored and loved very much, Dylan and Skylar Jackson, one brother, Rick Sertle, of East Dubuque, IL; four sisters, Paula (Philip) Soppe, Patty (Bob) Nolan, Jackie (David) Frank, all of Galena, and JoAnn Woodall of Clearwater, FL, numerous nieces, and nephews. He will be missed by Bunny, his beloved yellow lab, who laid by his side until his very last day.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Max Jr., and John Sertle, one nephew, Nicholas, and his in-laws, John (Margaret) Holman.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and compassion and to his extended family at Dillon’s. The family request memorials be given to Pirate’s Closet or to the nearest animal shelter in Dan’s memory.

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

 


 

Lorraine May

Lorraine May, 93, formerly of  Decatur, Illinois, whom resided with her daughter, Nancy Richard- Spray in Cascade  passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022 at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for Lorraine will be held from 9 to Noon at the Reiff Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 1, 2022.

Services for Lorraine will be held at 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at the Cornerstone Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Pastor Tony Foeller presiding.  Burial will be held in Cascade Community Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was  born May 5, 1928 in Decatur, Illinois, daughter of William and Goldie (McDaniel) Deardorff.

Lorraine loved playing Bingo, volley ball, doing seek and find work books, and was an avid fan of John Wayne Movies.  Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and her church family.

She is survived by four children, Nancy (Pete) Spray of Cascade, IA, Betty (Harold) Hayes of Grove City, OH, Bill Carter and Kenny Carter both of Decatur, IL; four grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren and one sister, Francis.

She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers and nine sisters.

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

Anyone unable to attend may send memorials to Reiff Funeral Home, ATTN; Lorraine May family, P.O. Box 430, Cascade, Iowa  52033.

 


 

Idalou Kisor LeRette

Idalou Kisor LeRette passed away peacefully on February 18, 2022. A private service for immediate family only will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Idalou was born in New Sharon, Iowa, on March 5, 1926 to Danny Dale and Alice Flo (Evans) Kisor. The family soon moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, where Idalou grew up. She attended school in Oskaloosa and graduated from Oskaloosa High in 1945.

On August 12, 1948 Idalou married Charles J. LeRette in Raton, New Mexico. They were married for 60 years. Two daughters were born from this union. (Both daughters became teachers.) After a short while, they moved their young family to Blue Island, IL. The couple left the Chicago area to retire to Brooksville, Florida, where they lived for 15 years. Due to increasing health issues, “Chuck” and Idalou moved to Dubuque, IA to be near family in 2007.

Surviving are two daughters, Susan Gunther formerly of Houston, Texas, and Patty (Dale) Metcalf of Dubuque. Three grandchildren of Dubuque, Tiffany (Brian) Cue, Brent (Sarah) Phillips, and Robert Metcalf. Idalou’s great grandchildren are Ethan and Estella Cue and Samantha and Brianna Phillips.

Idalou was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sister Grace Caruthers and brothers Morgan and Marian Kisor. Also her son in law Stephen Gunther.

Idalou belonged to the Grace Methodist Church in Blue Island, IL.

Memorials may be sent to the Dubuque Humane Society or the Hancock Methodist Church in Hancock, IA.

 


 

Sr. Marlys Becker

Sister Marlys (Felice) Becker, OSF, 88, of Dubuque, died Friday, February 18, 2022, at the Clare House in Dubuque.

The Rite of Final Committal will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 21, 2022 followed by burial at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site. Masks will be required. Livestream of the service can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans. A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date at Mount St. Francis Center.

Marlys was born August 21, 1933, in Watkins, IA, the daughter of John and Anna Frese Becker.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis on August 25, 1952 and made her final profession of vows on August 10, 1958. Sister received her master’s degree in guidance/counseling from Loras College in Dubuque, IA. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Holy Trinity and St. Mary in Dubuque, St. Mary in Waterloo, Bancroft, Monticello, Meyer, and Stacyville. In Illinois, she was missioned at Niles. She served as Chaplain at Marian Health Center in Sioux City, IA.

Survivors include her sister, Sr. Mary Ann Becker, RSM; sister-in-law, Mary Becker; nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Helen (Glenn) Boddicker, Hazel (Clarence) Schulte, and Ida Mae (Ralph) Houser, her brothers, George (Bernice) Becker, Wilbert (Dorothy) Becker, Louis Becker, and a brother-in-law, Mark Oberreuter.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

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

 


 

Delores A. Kloser

Delores Ann (Becker) Kloser, was welcomed into her heavenly father’s arms on February 17, 2022, at the age of 90. She died peacefully in her sleep. She was number nine of 13 children born to William and Bertha (Widmar) Becker Sr. on July 5, 1931.

Delores was a devout Catholic and faithful parishioner at numerous Dubuque congregations throughout her long life. Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45am at St. Anthony Parish on Tuesday, February 22nd. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Delores met her husband, Joseph, at the age of 17 on a blind date. They married in 1950 and she gave birth to 10 children. She was the center of our world as children and our information hub connecting us as adults.

Her petite size belied her fierce spirit, indomitable fortitude, and endless energy. She instilled a strong work ethic in all her children mirroring her own upbringing: Work first. Play later. The eight acres of land they purchased in unincorporated Asbury, then considered “the sticks,” was our playground and workplace. Half of the land was devoted to gardens and orchards to economically feed 12 people. How we hated toiling in the summer heat weeding and harvesting vegetables for canning and winter fruit cellar storage. What wasn’t gardens, was two large yards and wide-open fields for a batch of kids to play pick up sports, build forts, create Olympic style sledding hills, and climb trees. We either were taught or inherited “green thumbs” that many of us nurture yet in our adult lives because of our mother.

Delores carried her love of flowers to every home she lived, inside and out. Green plants and flowers flourished inside the house year around. Outside, the yards were dotted with flower beds and the scents of blooms. She loved the natural world and all living creatures, especially her numerous dogs. She was creative and always found time for her hobbies. Whether it was looming rugs, breeding Pekingese puppies, making clothes, painting ceramics, having or going to garage sales, or refinishing antiques. Somehow, she found more than 24 hours in a day for her pleasures.

Delores also worked outside the home in several industries that tapped her sewing prowess. She worked on and off including a night shift at Flexsteel Industries while bearing 10 children. In her mid-life, she went to work for Rhomberg Furriers for another 40 years applying her attention to details and craftmanship to give the very best in service and quality to their clientele.

She loved Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Westerns and anything starring John Wayne. She and Joe enjoyed going on Saturday night dates and traveling the Continental US, Europe, Alaska, and Mexico.

Over 63 years of marriage, our parents gave us riches in memories to savor. They lived long enough to shower their grandchildren and great-grandchildren in love. Mom loved each of us unconditionally as only a mother does.

She is survived by her children, Joseph (Michelle), Deborah (Dave) Powers, Karen (Eric Schiffman), Keith (Tammy), Mike (Emily), Ruth, Laura Wood, Teresa (James Mills), Leann (Rob) McDonald, and Bill (Wendy Sparrow); 22 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, siblings Evelyn “Evie” High, Joan Miller and Lois Becker; and 1 brother-in-law, John (Rita).

She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, siblings; William Jr., Harold, Walter, Roger, Marie, Eleanor, Dorothy, Roselyn “Rosie” and Alice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

The family thanks the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health, Drs. Kelley, Martin, and Kahn for all their tender loving care.

 


 

Howard J. Grobe

Howard J. Grobe, age 89, of Bernard, IA, completed his earthly journey on Feb. 18, 2022, at his home in Leisure Lake surrounded by loved ones.  To honor Howard’s life, a private family service for family and friends will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Howard’s family.

Howard was born on January 22, 1933, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John and Hilda (Hedrick) Grobe.  Howard joined the U.S. Army after high school and went on to honorably serve his country until he returned home to begin his career at Dubuque Stamp.  He was a tool and die maker for over 44 years and eventually made his way into retirement in 1995.  Howard was an outdoorsman at heart and almost all of his greatest pleasures could be found under the open sky above.  In his younger years, hunting, canoeing, and star gazing were at the top of his list and he still treasures the telescope which he brought home from his service time in Japan till this very day.  Howard also enjoyed fishing whenever possible if he could find the time to make a trip up to the Northern Waters in Minnesota to watch the loons move around him while casting his poles, he was surely thankful for the opportunity to experience a little heaven on earth.  Howard was an outgoing and humble man who not only embraced life and all of its simple pleasures, but also knew how to have fun while doing it.  At the end of the day, you could often find him reflecting on the joys of life under the calming and serene glow of his Tiffany lamps.  Howard was not a complicated man, but rather an honest man among men who only strived to find the most joy he could and generously share it among his family and friends.  We will miss Howard more than he would imagine, but we are forever grateful for the time that we had with him and will wait patiently until we see him again.  Thank you, Howard, for leaving behind a legacy that can and will shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Howard include,

his 2 daughters,
Loralie (Brad) Austin, Omaha, NE,
and Rosalie Wieland, Dubuque, IA;

his grandson,
Noah Voels;

his great-granddaughter,
Liana Lynn Voels;

his dear friends and neighbors,
Del and Tammy Bischoff, Bernard, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, and longtime love and partner in life, Judy Bischoff.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Howard’s name to Hospice of Jackson County.

Howard’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Jackson County, along with Del and Tammy, for all of the professional and compassionate care and concern.

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

 


 

Pastor Steve Hansel

Pastor Steve Hansel, 68, of Dubuque went to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 13, 2022.  Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 am Monday, February 21, 2022 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a funeral service at 11 am.  Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia.

Pastor Steve was born August 11, 1953 in Dubuque, son of Robert and Marie (Wallech) Hansel.

He graduated from Wahlert High School.  On July 22, 1985, he married Marti Vacek.

Pastor Steve began his full-time ministry in 1987.  For several years Pastor Steve traveled and ministered in many churches here in the Midwest; pastored in Edina, Missouri, and then founded Grace Christian Church (formerly Miracle Harvest Church) in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1999.  He was also a chaplain for the Dubuque Police and Sherriff departments.

He is survived by his wife, Marti of Dubuque; children, Nick (Sarah) Hansel of Eldridge, Iowa and their children, Grant, Grace, Glory, Hope, Mercie, and Harmony; Robert (Rebekka) Hansel of Urbandale, Iowa and their children, BeBe and Bianca; and Lisa Hansel of Dubuque.

He is also survived by his mother, Marie Hansel; six siblings, Kate (Tom) McGovern, Carolyn Achen, Susie (Bob) Nugent, Karen (Dan) Raymond, Krissy (Randy) Nauman, Victoria Fury; sister in law, Elaine Hansel; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Hansel; a sister, Leanne Frantz; and a brother, David Hansel.

Memorials may be made to the Steve Hansel memorial fund.

 


 

Richard Bennis

Richard “Dick” Bennis of Delmar passed away Wednesday February 16th at West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids.  The Funeral Mass will be held Friday February 25th, at 10:30 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, IA.  Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 pm Thursday February 24th at Carson Celebration of Life Center Maquoketa, IA.  Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery, Delmar.

Dick was born May 31, 1937 in Maquoketa, IA to Jerry and Flossie (Lane) Bennis.  He grew up in the Welton/Delmar area farming with his father.  He graduated from Delmar High School in 1955.  He served in the Army Reserve two years with an honorable discharge.  Dick married Sharon Westphal in October 1956  and to this union were born two daughters, Jane & Julie.  After Sharon’s passing in 1963, Dick married Joyce Petersen in 1967; they became the parents of two sons, Kent & Kye. Dick and Joyce celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Dick spent his entire life farming near Delmar.  He had a particular love for livestock and feeding animals. He always talked of his devotion to Faith, Family, and Friends.  His Catholic faith was the foundation of his life.  Dick inspired many with his big heart, positive attitude, sense of humor, and kindness, even during the most difficult days.  He was an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar.  He served on the Delwood School board, as a leader of the Delmar HotShots 4-H club, and Charter member of Delmar Lions.  Dick was active member of Clinton Co. Pork Producers and served on Clinton County Farm Service agency board.

Dick was an avid card player, joke and storyteller.  The Bennises made lifelong friends through trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, and many other adventures.  They enjoyed attending sporting and music events, especially those of their family, and watching the Cubs, Hawkeyes, and Cyclones.

Dick will be dearly missed by his wife, Joyce; his four children Jane (Don) Bowman of Fulton, IL; Julie (Jim) Kapsch of Robins, IA; Kent (Kristi) Bennis of Delmar; Kye (Sara) Bennis of Delmar; and ten grandchildren: Linissa Cooper, Lara Buckles, Liana LaShelle, Lucy Feltman, Mary Kapsch, Blair Bennis, Brie Bennis, Brant Bennis, Drew Bennis, Reagan Bennis, and ninegreat-grandchildren; his sister Carol Novak, brother Jerry (Connie) Bennis, and sister in-law Mary Bennis.  Dick is preceded in death by his first wife Sharon; his parents Jerry & Flossie Bennis, and his brother Gary Bennis.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials can be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Camp Courageous of Iowa, or St. Croix Hospice of Cedar Rapids.

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

 


 

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