Obituaries Archive

Mary Beth Herrig

Mary Beth Herrig, 56, of Dubuque, IA passed away on August 15, 2025, at Silver Oak Nursing and Rehabilitation Home in Marion, IA with family by her side.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque where a funeral service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Burial for Mary Beth will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Holy Rosary Cemetery in LaMotte, IA.

Mary Beth was born on September 21, 1968 in Maquoketa, IA, the daughter of Irvin “Sam” and Mary Lou (Durkop) Herrig. She was raised in LaMotte and attended Bellevue Community School. After graduating, she attended NICC where she finished with a book keeping/accounting degree.

Mary Beth was employed with Theisen’s Supply where she worked for 30 years. She loved visiting with people and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. She will be missed by many.

She is survived by her lifelong partner, Daryl Capesius of Springville, IA; siblings, Donna (Jim) Howland of Florida, Kevin (Sabira Nurieva) Herrig of Germany, Diana Bergfeld of Bernard, IA, Ken (Teresa) Herrig of Dubuque, IA, Dave (Amy) Herrig of LaMotte, IA, and Dean, Gene, Elaine and Gerald Herrig all of Dubuque, IA; one nephew and many nieces.

Mary Beth was preceded in death by her parents.

The family of Mary Beth would like to express their gratitude to Jennifer Hohneke, ARNP and each and every person at Silver Oak Nursing and Rehabilitation Home for the exceptional, compassionate and loving care Mary Beth received for the past 13 months.

John D. Simons

John Dixson Simons, 95, of Dubuque, died Monday, August 11, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care in Dubuque.

The Funeral Service for John will be at 10:00 am Friday, August 29, 2025, at Linwood Cemetery with Pastor Tyler Thomas officiating. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

John was born October 16, 1929, in Bellevue, IA, the son of Earl and Laura (Stephenson) Simons. On July 23, 1962, he married Sonia Bowman in Hanover, Illinois.

John graduated from Bellevue High School in 1949, and continued his education at Bradley University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War era from May 26, 1949 until May 31, 1953 as a radio operator.

John was an industrial engineer at the Savanna Army Depot for 45 years.

He found great joy in the outdoors, whether it was hunting alongside his Uncle Vin, gliding, or spending time fishing. He was also a proud and devoted member of the VFW.

Survivors include his wife, Sonia Simons of Dubuque; three children, Rebecca Simons, Pamela  Evans, and John “JB” Simons; three grandchildren, Channel “Nellie” Simons, Zakkery Wasmund, and Thomas Freisinger; and one sister, Donna Zeller.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Cecil Simons, and one sister, Mary Eganhouse.

John’s family would like to extend a Thank You to Care Initiatives Hospice and Dubuque Specialty Care for their care.

John will be remembered as a great father, who was always teaching and had a great sense of humor.

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

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

Patricia L. Kaune

Patricia L. Kaune, 74, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on August 13, 2025, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.

There will be a Celebration of Life, on Sunday, August 24, 2025, it will be held at Eagle Point Park, in the Open Air Pavilion, Section A, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.

Patricia was born on November 28, 1950, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Herbert F. and Betty J. (Hartley) Hauth. She received her BA in Business Administration and Economics from the University of Dubuque and was an Instructor at NICC for 13 years. She loved to play cards, read and enjoyed her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Tami (Cliff) Kaune, of Zwingle, IA, Jennifer O’Neal and Amber Williams both of Maquoketa, IA, and Paul (Kimberly) Kaune of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren, Taysia, Macormick, Austin, Makayla, Jaecylyn, Nalani and Rhylee; great grandchildren Julian and Anna; sister Shirley Hauth of Dubuque, IA.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents Herbert and Betty Hauth; brother Skeets Hauth; grandson Paul Harry Kaune III.

Chester W. Salow Jr.

Chester “Ted” William Salow Jr., 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Eagle Pointe Place in Dubuque.

A funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 25, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral for both Ted and his wife Ann will be Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Christ the King Catholic Parish, Toledo, Ohio.  Visitation in the narthex will begin at 9:30 a.m., with Mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be at Toledo Memorial Park, as per their wishes.

Chester was born on February 2, 1948, in Monroe, Michigan, the son of Chester W. and Hazel (Schameltz) Salow Sr. He married his wife Ann Orlowski on April 3, 1977, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Chester was an avid fan of sports and enjoyed going to baseball games. Favorite place was Disney World and best known as Goofy. He loved any and all dogs and cherished having a constant lap buddy.

He is survived by his daughter, Kim (Jason) Sheehy, and three grandchildren Madison, Connor, and Xander.

He was preceded in death by his wife Ann in 2021, his parents Chester Sr. and Hazel, his parents-in-law Clement and Dorothy, step-father-in-law Robert Buehler, brother Terry Salow and brother-in-law Ronald Orlowski.

All memorials are to be sent to the Humane Society or any other animal rescue organization.

Mark A. Amberg

Mark “Otis” Andrew Amberg, 53, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, August 16, 2025. His loss leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family and friends who loved him dearly.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home with Very Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Mark was the beloved son of Sandy and Tony Amberg. He is survived by his parents, his siblings Eric (Amy Noonan) Amberg, Amy Amberg, Andrew Amberg, and Sara Amberg (Alin Muresan), as well as his cherished nieces and nephews: Tom, Cassie (Nick Huseman), and Jenna (Walter Rupert) Amberg; Sophia and Rachel Zurita-Amberg; and Zachary and Jesse Buzzacott. To his family, Mark was not only a son, brother, and uncle, but also a source of endless laughter, warmth, and support.

A graduate of Wahlert High School, Mark later earned a degree in Radiology from NICC. He proudly served patients in Alliance, Nebraska, Clay Center, Kansas, and eventually at the Iowa City V.A. Hospital until his retirement in 2021. Retirement marked the start of a joyful new chapter for Mark, as he returned to Dubuque, where he fully embraced life’s simple pleasures.

Mark had a passion for golf, walking 18 holes at Lacoma Golf Course no matter the weather. He found peace and joy at his home (jokingly called “Butler Cabin South”), which he filled with music, art, history, literature, and the beauty of nature. His backyard became a sanctuary for the deer and squirrels he faithfully fed, and he shared his space with his two beloved cats, Skippy and Pippy, who brought him constant companionship.

Known for his eccentric spirit and sharp wit, Mark was the life of the party, always dressed to impress. He was a jack of all trades and the go-to person whenever anyone needed help—armed with determination, resourcefulness, and often, a little help from YouTube. Mark’s caring and generous nature touched everyone who knew him, and his love for his family was unwavering.

He lived life on his own terms and made it happen. His family finds peace in the fact that he spent his last few years mostly hitting golf balls, strumming the guitar, being with family, and chasing his own happiness. Mark will be remembered for his humor, his creativity, and the unique light he brought to every gathering. His absence will be felt deeply, but the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

In honor of Mark’s deep appreciation for the outdoors and his love of nature, the family kindly asks that friends consider planting a tree in his memory or supporting local conservation efforts in lieu of flowers. By doing so, his legacy will continue to grow and flourish in the places he cherished most.

Kathy R. Greene

Kathy Regina Greene, 78, of Marshfield, MO, and formerly of Galena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in Marshfield. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the start of the service. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

John C. Henry

John Charles “J.C.” Henry, age 46, Formerly of Dubuque Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Colorado, surrounded by family.

Born on June 23, 1979, J.C. will be remembered for his passion for sports, his vibrant personality, and the ways he connected with others throughout his life.

J.C. spent many years coaching baseball, where he found purpose in encouraging young athletes and sharing his love of the game. He also enjoyed following the Chicago Bears, playing basketball, and spending time on the golf course with friends. He worked as a painter and was a proud member of the Painters Union.

He is survived by his children, Alex, Bailey (Hannah) Andrue (Abi) and Dalton; his grandchildren, Henley and Rhett; his brother, Tyler; and his nephew, Liam. He was preceded in death by his mother, Donna, and his grandmother, Joanne.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a remembrance service at 6:45 p.m. A private family burial will follow at Ideal Cemetery in Fennimore, Wisconsin.

The family is grateful for the support of friends and loved ones during this time.

Rusty L. Lietz

Rusty L. Lietz, 71, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, August 19, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, surrounded by his wife and sons.

Born on November 16, 1953, in Anamosa, Iowa, Rusty was the son of Dale and Lois (Leeper) Lietz. He grew up in a tight-knit community and attended Oxford Junction Schools, where he first discovered his love for music. Rusty’s life was enriched with love when he married his soulmate, Renne Shollenberger, on February 12, 1972, at the Delmar United Methodist Church. Their union was blessed with two sons, Jason and Jeff, who brought great joy to Rusty’s life.

Rusty’s professional journey began at JI Case in Bettendorf, where he dedicated 15 years of service. After the company’s closure, he worked at Community Care in Charlotte but found his true calling in radio broadcasting. His voice became a familiar and comforting presence to many as he worked at KHAK and later at KMAQ in Maquoketa, where he spent many happy years sharing his love for music and community news.

Rusty’s devotion to his faith was evident through his participation in the Delmar Methodist Church. His love for music was not just a hobby but a lifelong pursuit. He played in a band since high school and continued to share his musical gifts for over 50 years. Rusty’s talent and spirit brought life to countless weddings, dances, local venues, and intimate gatherings around campfires.

Above all, Rusty cherished the moments spent with his family. He was a beacon of support and pride for his grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to watch them play sports and celebrating their accomplishments. His legacy of love and encouragement will live on through his family.

Rusty is survived by his wife, Renne Lietz of Delmar, IA; his children, Jason (Stacey) Lietz of Solon, IA, and their daughters Bailey, Kassidy, and Kobi, as well as Jeff (Heather) Lietz of Colfax, IA, and their son Jacob (Allison) Lietz and their children Jensen and Avery. He also leaves behind his sister, Glenda (Mark) John of Cedar Rapids, IA. Rusty was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Susan Jacobsen.

A celebration of Rusty’s life will be held from 1 to 4 P.M., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Grossman Hall, 309 Main Street, Delmar, Iowa 52037.  Come share laughs and good memories.  Wear your favorite sports gear if you choose.  Rusty has donated his body to Dementia Research at the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rusty L. Lietz memorial fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

James Brock

Dr. James “Jamie” Brock, 79, of Dubuque, passed away due to complications of dementia at Grand Meadows in Asbury surrounded by family.

A Celebration of Life for Jamie will be held from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Dubuque Golf and Country Club.

Jamie was born on October 25th, 1945 to Edwin and Sue Simpson Brock on an Army base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was raised in West Des Moines, Iowa and graduated from Valley High School, where he met his future wife, Janice Waterbury. He attended Iowa State University, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a BS in General Science, where he also attended medical school and completed his residency in ophthalmology. During college, Jamie married his high school sweetheart, Janice, his wife of 59 years.

He practiced ophthalmology at Medical Associates Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa for 37 years. The hallmark of Jamie’s career were the genuine connections he made with patients, who felt that they knew him both as a doctor and as a friend. His lifelong friends, Tom Dvorak and Jane Hancock worked by his side, keeping him in line and on track for every day of his career while still allowing him his power naps.

Jamie was a true fan of all his children’s activities. He fostered a love of sport among his sons, whom he supported tirelessly, attending all of their events and recording every race and game with a 30 pound video camera on his shoulder. Though passionate about everything he did, he was also uniquely easygoing with a calm demeanor and kind voice. He was also a true sportsman, and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and all outdoor pursuits. Jamie was a member of the Dubuque Shooting Society 990. Jamie also hosted many friends on several annual fishing trips in Canada since the early 1970’s.

He is survived by his wife, Janice; his children, Jeff (Heidi) Brock of Pewaukee, WI, Scott (Tara) Brock of Dubuque, daughter-in-law Sonya of Austin, TX, and Rob (Emily) Brock of West Des Moines, IA; nine grandchildren, Austyn, Beau, Mira, Beckett, Connell, Lena, Felicity, Baylee, and Kate; his sisters, Betty (Michael) Moore of East Lansing, MI and Nancy (Bernie) Wojcik of Omaha, NE; and sister-in-law, Sandy Brock of Atlanta, GA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law, Leona Waterbury, his son, Jay, and his brother, Bob.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff at Grand Meadows for their love and support.

Memorials have been established for the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department in Grand Marais, MN and the Dubuque Evening Lions Club.

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 Jamie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mary B. Breiner

Mary B. (Mellor) Breiner, 66, of Dubuque, died on Monday, August 18, 2025 at Harmony Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be at 10:00 am on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born September 13, 1958, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Clarence and Blanche (Brandel) Haas. Mary was married to Michael Mellor in 1979, they later divorced. She later married Dan Breiner and he preceded her in death on February 16, 2023.

Mary graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1977. She worked at K-Mart in the pharmacy until they closed.

Mary was a lifetime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Her faith was of utmost importance to her and unselfishly dedicated most of her time in prayer for others as a member of Power of Prayer Adoration Chapel, Woman of Worth, and Seven Sisters. When she had the time, Mary also enjoyed a trip to the casino.

Survivors include her three children, Crystal (Eric) Patterson, Robert Mellor, and Joseph Mellor all of Dubuque; three step-children, Andrew (Jessica) Breiner of Worthington, IA, Don Breiner of Galena, IL, and Annie (Craig) Sheehy of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Lucas, Dominic, Brianna, Tasha, Trenton, Tahila, Austin, and Joshua; two siblings, Diane (Karl) Blaser of Monticello, IL Gary (Carol) Haas of Hazel Green, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by one grandson, Connor; and two siblings, John Haas and Linda Maas.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center, Harmony Dubuque, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care.

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

Rosemary Faulhaber

Rosemary Faulhaber, 88, of Dubuque (formerly of DeSoto, IA), passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, August 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 8:30 am until 9:45 am Friday, August 22, 2025 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rosemary will be 10:00 am Friday, August 22, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Very Reverend Brian Dellaert, Rosemary’s grandson, as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rosemary was born on April 29, 1937, at home in Keota, Iowa, to Joseph and Eleanor (Pollmiller) Conrad. She married the love of her life, Richard Faulhaber, on November 22, 1956, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Keota – a romance that began with a blind date and blossomed into a devoted partnership and a growing family. He passed away on September 26, 2018.

After raising her children, Rosemary returned to the workforce, spending five years as an aide at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rockford, IL, followed by five years as a cashier at Ardan’s in Davenport. She later worked six years at Ben Franklin in Des Moines and another six years at Walgreens in the Hallmark Department.

A woman grounded in her Catholic faith, Rosemary was the proud mother of five children. She found joy in the simple beauties of life – tending to her flowers, watching birds, and cherishing time spent with her family.

Survivors include her five children, Debra (Gary) Dellaert of Dubuque, Mary (David) Coultas of Jacksonville, IL, Tom (Brenda) Faulhaber of LeClaire, IA, Christine O’Keefe of Andover, MN, and Robert (Jeanna) Faulhaber of Omaha, NE; 20 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Herb Conrad, Merlin (Diane) Conrad, and Kathy (Mike) Heisdorffer; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her father- and mother-in-law, Thomas and Bernadine Faulhaber, one son-in-law, John O’Keefe, and a granddaughter, Bernadette Faulhaber, three brothers, Father Sylvester Conrad, Harold (Bette) Conrad, and Robert (Alice) Conrad, and one sister, Ruth (Marvin) Hammes.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring teams at Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque especially her daughter, Mary Coultas for her support and compassion.

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 Rosemary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Carol Potts

Carol “Kay”  Potts, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, August 18, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.  to 10 a.m. on Friday, August 22, at Church of the Resurrection, where Mass will be held at 10:30, and will be live-streamed on the funeral home website.  Rev. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Kay was born February 27, 1936 in Dubuque, the daughter of Anthony “Tony”  and Ruth (Vogel) Noel. She married Gerald “Jerry”  Potts on November 10, 1956 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on August 10, 2015.

Kay was a lifetime member of Resurrection parish, where she was also involved in Bible Study. She was also a member of the Red Hat Club, and enjoyed playing golf with her golf league, playing bridge with her card club, puzzles, bowling, and bingo. Kay had an infectious smile, and loved to laugh. Her grandkids were her greatest joy. She had a generous spirit, and was always there to help anyone in need.

Kay is survived by her children, Mike Potts, of Ashville, NC, Gary (Chris) Potts, of Raymore, MO, Kim (Keith) McCleod, of Hebron, MD, Kathy (Tom) Herrig, of Dubuque, Bob Potts, of Parker, CO, Tony (Tracy) Potts, of Asbury, and T.J. (Jenni) Potts, of Dubuque; 23 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren; and her siblings, Mary Ann Miller, Barbara Twomey, John Noel, and Hope Maus.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Michelle Potts and Mary Timmerman; her granddaughter, Niicole McGee; her brothers, Richard and Donald Noel; her sisters, Jean Hingtgen, Helen McLaughlin, and Jenny Landa.

Kay’s family would like to thank everyone at Oak Park Place, where she met many wonderful friends, and was the founder of the “Giggle Girls” group; and to the staff at Mercy Medical Center.

Dale J. Palm

Dale Joseph Palm, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on August 17, 2025, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Wake Service will be held at 3:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. G. Robert Gross officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dale was born on January 2, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Clifford Michael and Eleanor Susan (Apel) Palm. He attended Loras Academy in Dubuque before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959, serving in Korea. On April 10, 1965, Dale was united in marriage to Jane Miller at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque. He went on to work for Midcontinent Bottlers (7UP) in Sales and Distribution.

Dale was a former member of the Eagles and Moose Clubs, a proud Harley Owners Group (HOG) member, and a parishioner of St. Columbkille’s. He had a passion for riding his Harley, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and dancing. Dale never met a stranger. Once you met him, you became part of his family. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of his life.

Dale is survived by his children, Donna (Ken Hess) Selle, Sandy (Jack) Eigenberger, Wayne (Cathy) Selle, Dale (Vicky) R. Palm, Sue (Mark Melssen) Kemp, and Wes (Erin) Palm; 17 grandchildren, Michael, Elisha, Aaron, Jeremy, Brian, April, Carissa, Tommy, Sara, Christin, Jamie, Chris, Shawn, Haley, Olivia, Aiden, and Declan; 31 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Jane, and his brother, Ronald Palm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dale’s memory to St. Columbkille’s or the Veteran’s Freedom Center.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble and Care Initiatives Hospice.

Maria J. Sutton

Maria J. Sutton, age 50, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 14, 2025. To celebrate Maria’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery.

Maria was born on December 25, 1974, in the Olongapo City, Philippines, the daughter of David and Excelsa “Elsa” (Pabila) Sutton.

Maria graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then attended NICC classes to learn phlebotomy.  At age 16, Maria taught swimming lessons at the YMCA.  After school, she went to work as a hostess at the Olive Garden, at Houlihan’s as a cook and as a lead instructor at Area Residential Care.  In her free time she enjoyed watching TV.  Maria’s favorite shows included Anime, NCIS, CSI and Bones.  She also enjoyed Japanese, Korean and Superhero movies.  She had a green thumb and liked to grow vegetables and flowers.  She especially loved her orchids.  She loved cooking and looked forward to creating tasty dishes in the kitchen for her family and friends.  Maria also liked going for walks down by the river and at the mall, where she was always on the lookout for a new pair of shoes.  Maria was a kind and loving person and we will miss her more than words can say.

Those left to cherish Maria’s memory include

her children,
LaTrease (Rameal Choice) Sutton-Smith, Dubuque, IA,
Ezikieal (Emily Marks) McCalip, Marion, IA
and Elijah McCalip, Dubuque, IA;

her parents,
David and Elsa Sutton, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Jay (Melissa) Sutton, Machesney Park, IL;

and a grandson on the way,
Elias McCalip.

Maria was preceded in death by her grandparents.

Maria’s family would like to thank Dr. Whalen, the staff of Tri-State Dialysis, and the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, for their outstanding care and compassion.

Cards and memorials in Maria’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Maria Sutton Family.

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

Darrel Rettig

Darrel Rettig, age (84), of Dallas, Texas and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025 at his home in Dallas surrounded by loved ones.

Darrel was born on May 25th, 1941 in Lansing, Michigan to Clarence and Martha Rettig.  He grew up in Ohio (Grelton and McClure) and graduated from McClure High School in 1959.  As a boy during summers, Darrel proved himself as an entrepreneur mowing 25 lawns, washing cars, bailing hay and irrigating carrots.

Darrel was a member of St Paul’s Lutheran Church of McClure, Ohio before later becoming a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa.   In McClure, he attended confirmation class with his older brother because his mother thought it would be “a good learning experience.” And then again with his own confirmation class.  He enjoyed and participated in Luther League.  He was always expected to attend church on Sunday.

On Christmas Day, 1959, Darrel married his high school sweetheart Sharon Hoffman. Their love started at the school Christmas dance when Darrel asked Sharon to dance.  Darrel was 14 and Sharon was 15.  Darrel played varsity basketball as a freshman and was MVP both junior and senior years.  Darrel was the basketball player and Sharon the cheerleader.

After his high school class trip, Lowell Hoffman (who would become his father-in-law) asked Darrel to start the Maquoketa, Iowa location of Hoffman Eggs. During the next 44 years he served on the Maquoketa City council, Jackson County Hospital Foundation Board, and was the Maquoketa Country Club president.  Darrel also enjoyed coaching a boy’s little league team and his daughter’s softball team.

He and Sharon grew Hoffman Eggs in Maquoketa to be the leading processor of eggs in Iowa and other states east.  Darrel was a founder of Rembrandt Enterprises which became the 4th largest producer of eggs in the United States.

In Maquoketa, the Jaycees were an important part of his early career.  He served as President and in his tenure, the Jaycees started the Bellevue and Anamosa Reformatory chapters. He was elected the President of the Jaycees State Directors of Iowa, and he was Honored as an Outstanding Young Man in America in 1967.

Darrel was Patriotic with a passion for local, state and US politics.  At different events he saw George Romney, Barry Goldwater, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, John McCain, Barack Obama, George HW Bush, Bob and Elizabeth Dole and George W. Bush.  He was an avid reader of history and politics and collected a library of books and memorabilia that Sharon and his family will cherish.

He loved his wife deeply.  He taught, loved and bragged on his kids.  He was a cherished brother, a “hero” in fact to his brother Jerry.  And was a true friend to many.

Those left to honor Darrel’s memory are his loving wife of 65 years, Sharon of Dallas, TX, his son’s Dr. Jeffrey/Roxanne Rettig, of Groesbeck, TX and David/Jennifer Rettig of Champaign, IL., his daughter Susanne Rettig/Tracy Zaffino of Dallas, TX; his brother Jerry/Marge Rettig of Enola, PA; his grandchildren US Army Captain Ryan/Jasmine Rettig of Fort Meade, MD., Clayton/Kristin Rettig of Midland, TX, Austin/Leslie Rettig of Dallas, TX., Adrianne/Zach Ledford of Groesbeck, TX., Bogdan Rettig of Wisconsin Dells, WI., and Katya Rettig of Champaign IL., and 10 great grand-children: Jeffrey, Jackson, Jacquelyn Jace, Madeline, Everett, Liam, James, Thomas Rettig and Isaac Ledford.  Sister-in-law Cynthia Hoffman of Alpharetta, GA.  Nieces Kim Hamann, Becky Penrod, Tracy Maimone, Tina Roughton all of OH, Holly King of FL., Jill Rettig of PA, Lori Rettig of TX; last but not least, his goldendoodle Kash who misses him and who would jump up in the chair so Darrel could rub him from sitting in his motorized wheel chair.  Darrel was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Gladden “Skip” and Joyce Rettig, his nephew Jacob Rettig, his parents-in-law, and his brother-in-law Fred Hoffman, his foster sister-in-law Sherri Merz and niece Kelli Witten.

In lieu of expressions of sympathy the family kindly requests remembrances to Merit Hospice 8350 N. Central Expressway, Suite M1019, Dallas, TX 75206, First Lutheran Church of Maquoketa, IA 52060 or help to Military, Children or Seniors.

A celebration of Darrel’s life will be held on September 6 at 10:00 am at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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