Obituaries Archive

Jeffrey D. Zimmerman

Jeffrey Dwight Zimmerman, 65, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, in Dubuque, Iowa. Jeff was born on February 24, 1960, in San Fernando, California, to Dwight and Ruth Ann (Flora) Zimmerman. He graduated from Maquoketa High School with the Class of 1978 and later married Pamela Sanderson on July 2, 1983. Together they shared 10 years of marriage and welcomed one daughter, Katelyn. Jeff spent many years working for the United States Postal Service, serving in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Alexandria, Minnesota, before retiring as Postmaster in Wadena, Minnesota. He took pride in his work and the communities he served.

Jeff wore many hats in his life—a kind friend, beloved brother, “favorite uncle”, devoted father, and exceptional grandfather. He made a profound and lasting impact on all who knew him through his unwavering kindness, compassion, and gift for conversation. An avid reader with a remarkable knowledge of history, Jeff especially enjoyed nonfiction, classics, and military history, though he appreciated books of every kind. He found great joy in wildlife and the outdoors, especially time spent with family and friends at “the cabin” in northern Minnesota. Above all, Jeff cherished time with his daughter, grandsons, nieces, and nephews. He instilled in his daughter and grandsons a deep love of reading, cooking, and life at the cabin—traditions and values that will continue to live on.

Those left to honor his memory include his daughter Katelyn (Korbin) Dunn of College Grove, TN, his sister Jill (Dan Mortensen) Osterhaus of Eagan, MN, his brothers, Scott (Barb) Zimmerman of Maquoketa and Dana (Mary) Zimmerman of Ames, IA, his three grandsons: Logan, Finn, and Cole, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Steven Zimmerman.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a visitation will be held from 10 A.M. until Noon on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Maquoketa. To honor Jeff’s memory and his deep love of reading, the family welcomes donations of books in place of other expressions of sympathy to establish a library in his name. Donations may be directed to Katelyn or to Bethany Home in Dubuque. Online condolences may be expressed at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Karen A. Schultz

Karen A. (Lange) Schultz, 62, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI.

Family and friends may call from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 2, 2026 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Bosco Aruldoss officiating. Burial will follow at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Karen was born on July 18, 1963 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Harold J. “Skip” and Mary Jean (Thill) Lange. She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1981. On November 7, 1982 she was united in marriage to Joe Schultz at St. Mary’s Church.

Karen formerly worked at ARC in Dubuque. For the past 17 years, she has been employed in the ENT Department at Medical Associates Clinic in Dubuque.

Karen deeply loved her family- especially her kids and grandchildren- and took great joy in watching them pursue their passions.  Karen cherished her date nights and watching movies with Joe. She also enjoyed camping, creating stained glass art, and attending concerts. In her younger years, she was active in volleyball and other sports.

Surviving is her husband Joe, three children, Darin (Jamie) Schultz of Bemidji, MN, Sarah (fiancé, Cody) Schultz of Farley, IA, and Kyle (Alena) Schultz of Colona, IL; two grandchildren, Harper and Hayden, and Baby Schultz on the way; her siblings, Rich (Brenda) Lange, Pat (Gina) Lange, Ken (Kelli) Lange, Marty (Michelle) Lange, Kathy (John) Williams, Jennifer (Brian) McLane, all of East Dubuque, IL, and Joanne (Brian) Kirby of Bernard, IA; nieces, nephews and cousins; her aunts, Mary Thill and Mary Jo Lange both of East Dubuque, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold “Skip” and Mary Jean Lange, aunts and uncles, Elaine “Pal” (Bill) Potter, Dale (Joyce) Lange, Gerald Lange, Bob (Phyllis) Lange, Joe (Carol) Lange and Robert Thill.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to their families, close friends and the doctors and staff of the ENT department at Medical Associates for the kindness, support, and love shown to Karen and her family.

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

Roberta Schaub

Roberta “Bobbie” (Gaylor) Schaub, 92, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Mill Valley Care Center.  Private Family Services will be conducted.

Local arrangements with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Bobbie was born May 29, 1933, the daughter of Donald and Helen (Schwagler) Gaylor.  She graduated from Bellevue Community High School and attended nurses training.  Bobbie married George F. Schaub on July 20, 1952, he passed on May 18, 2021.   Shortly after George’s passing, Bobbie moved to Mill Valley Care Center in 2023.  George and Bobbie had the honor of serving as Grand Marshalls of the Bellevue Heritage Days parade after retiring from Schaub’s Garage.  Bobbie loved to bake, especially her caramel pecan rolls, making baby quilts, dancing with her husband, George, making many friends over the years at dances.  She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Bobbie will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children; Beth (Steve) Norpel, Cathy (Willie) Sneller, Karen (Jeff) Stewart, and Abby (Rick) Steines; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren; siblings and in-laws, Karen Sabrowski, John (Ginny) Gaylor, and Nancy Gaylor.

Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; and a brother, Arlo Gaylor and a brother in-law, Ed Sabrowski.

The family would like to thank the staff at Mill Valley Care Center and Hospice of Jackson County for your care and support during this time.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA 52031 c/o Roberta “Bobbie” Schaub Family.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Sister Mary Anne McCormick, PBVM

Sister Mary Anne McCormick, PBVM, 86, died on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, friends may call from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a wake service at 7:00 p.m. and funeral service on Friday, January 9 at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Sister Mary Anne McCormick, daughter of Leslie and Bernice (Ryan), was born Anne Rose McCormick on February 22, 1939, in Waukon, Iowa.  She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Waukon on September 8, 1966, and professed her perpetual vows on July 28, 1974.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College (now Clarke University). With some experience teaching prior to joining the Sisters of the Presentation, Sister Anne’s later ministries took her to Timber Lake, S.D., Globe, Ariz., and Charles City, Cedar Falls, Farley, and Sheldon, all in Iowa where she taught. She also conducted summer Vacation Church Schools in many locations. She retired to Mount Loretto in 2008 and celebrated her 50th Jubilee in 2016.

Sister Anne, a woman of great energy and quick wit, faithfully lived the spirit of Presentation foundress Nano Nagle through a life devoted to service, where she found deep purpose in helping others. After years of ministry as an educator, she embraced community service at Mount Loretto with an open heart, generously serving in many ways, especially as a compassionate companion to senior sisters. Grounded in a rich prayer life and sustained by gratitude, Sister Anne approached each person and task with a willing “Here I am, Lord,” a smile, and genuine care. Her presence was a gift—radiating warmth, joy, and an enduring commitment to God and community.

Surviving are her sister-in-law Ivy McCormick, nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 59 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Bill (Geraldine), Jim (Dolly), and Jack McCormick, and sisters Regina McCormick, Peggy (Jim) Dempsey, Marilyn (Al) Kruger, and Marita (Tom) Howes.

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

Glen D. Clark

Glen Douglas Clark, of Galena, IL, and formerly of Mt. Vernon, IA, died Sunday, December 28, 2025, of complications due to pulmonary disease. He was 77. Glen made it very clear that he wanted a joyous celebration of his life after he passed. Friends and family are invited to come together on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Tin Roof Event Center in Lisbon, IA, from 1 – 5 PM.  As he wished, there will be no visitation or services. A private graveside ceremony will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Glen was the youngest of six children, born on September 24, 1948, to Andrew and Grace (Wilde) Clark. He grew up on the family farm in Ely, IA, attended school at Rogers Grove, and graduated from Mt. Vernon High School in 1966. He spent his career at Bernet Construction, where he served as the manager for over 30 years. Glen loved his job and was sorry to retire. In the summer of 1977, Glen met his wife, Crystal Cottrell; they married on July 15, 1978, in Mt. Vernon. Together, they had three children and lived in Mt. Vernon until retiring to Galena in 2017. Some of the happiest years of Glen’s life were spent enjoying the area’s tranquility with Crystal, exploring restaurants, towns, and festivals.

Glen is survived by his wife, Crystal; son Aaron (Jackie Zubak) Clark; daughters Ashley (Jesse) Caruthers; Afton Clark (Adam Petersen); sister-in-law Cindy Johnson; mother-in-law Kay Fisk; the pride of his life, grandchildren Estella, Bria, Myles, Lucas, Portia, and Kaleb; and his loyal dog, Bear.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Karen Fiala and Barbara Ingersoll; his brother, Mark; and his father-in-law, Eugene Fisk.

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

Mary A. Branagan

Constance Norby

Constance “Connie” Norby, 94, of Dubuque, passed away December 29, 2025, at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30a.m., Friday, January 2, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Constance was born on May 16, 1931 to Leo and Kathryn (Larkin) Theisen in Dubuque.

She was united in marriage to Loren Norby on October 30, 1954 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

Connie was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

In 1962, Connie and Loren started Norby’s Farm Fleet. Connie was an integral part of the family business well into her late 80’s.

Connie is survived by her children, Greg (Brenda) Norby of Dubuque, and Paula (Brian Enke) Norby of Dubuque. Also surviving are grandchildren, Meredith (John) Semrad, Ian Moodie, Tyler Norby, Tanner (Alyssa) Norby, and Connor (Kate) Norby; step-grandchildren, Craig (Mandy) Enke, and Jen Enke. She is also survived by 6 great-grandchildren, and 4 step-great-grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by her siblings, Pat Munch, and Jim Theisen.

Connie was preceded in death by her husband; sister, Mary Kay Bondy; and in-laws, Marita Theisen, and Bob Munch.

Connie’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill At Home. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to DuRide, Hospice of Dubuque, and Stonehill At Home.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Randy Waterman

Randy Waterman, 63, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away suddenly on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center from complications with pneumonia.

He was born July 11, 1962 in Dubuque, IA to John and Patricia (Keeley) Waterman.

Randy was an excellent ASE Service Technician at Runde Auto Group in Hazel Green, Wisconsin. He was a huge fan of NASCAR, Cowboys and John Wayne. He enjoyed camping, fishing and motorcycles.

Surviving is his wife Charlotte, daughters Amy Schueller and Carrie Waterman, his brothers Andy Waterman and Jeff Waterman, stepchildren Greg Howell, Joe Howell, Mandy Howell and Crystal O’Dell, and many grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Pat Waterman, and a son Brian Waterman.

Randy will be truly missed by his wife Charlotte, family members, friends and co-workers.

We would like to thank East Dubuque Fire and Rescue, Menominee-Dunleith First Responders and Mercy Hospital and staff for their assistance during this difficult time.

There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

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

Helen A. Ricklefs

Helen A. Ricklefs, 83, of Baldwin, Iowa, died unexpectedly on Friday, December 26, 2025, at home.

Helen Anna Welch was born on October 25, 1942 in Sterling, Iowa, to Marshall and Anna (Henrichsen) Welch.  She attended country school near Green Island, and then Sabula Public Schools.

In earlier years, Helen had worked at the Sabula Speaker Factory.  Later in life, she found her calling in childcare, becoming a trusted babysitter to over 100 children. Her nurturing spirit and warm heart left a lasting impact on the many lives she touched.

Helen enjoyed knitting, old movies on television, and going for rides and traveling in the convertible with Loren. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by a son, Terry Ricklefs of Baldwin, IA; 6 grandchildren including, Roy (Ashlee), Amy, Cody, and Tyler; 5 great-grandchildren; brothers, Vernon Welch of Green Island, IA, and Ronald Welch of Sabula, IA; and a sister, Marie Wyant of Clinton, IA; and her boyfriend, Loren “Honda Pete” Petersen of Baldwin, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Tammy Riordan, brothers Eugene and Don Welch, and a sister Ruth Macy.

A luncheon (potluck style) celebrating her life will be held from 11:30 A.M. to 1:30 P.M., Thursday, January 8, 2026, at at the VFW in Sabula.  A private family burial will be held at th Evergreen Cemetery, Sabula, Iowa.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

JoAnn L. Ayers

JoAnn Lillian Ayers, 89, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center. She spent a beautiful Christmas Eve there with family gathered around sharing stories and memories and getting hugs from each one in attendance.

Private family services were held Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

She was born on June 25, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of LeRoy John Feyen and Myrtle Josephine (Pfohl) Feyen. She married Jack “Jackie” LeRoy Ayers on April 16, 1955, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.

She attended her beloved St. Mary’s grade school, Immaculate Conception Academy and Senior High School in Dubuque. JoAnn worked many jobs in her younger years before being a full-time homemaker and then worked at K Mart from 1975 to 1995, retiring from there as a supervisor.

JoAnn had many cherished memories of her childhood at their home on Jackson St., documenting them for family to enjoy reading for many years to come. JoAnn was a wonderful and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, and she cherished her family above everything else. Family meals were important to her, and Sundays were saved for spending time with the grandparents, just as she did when she was a child. Christmas gatherings were always special. Her 2 all-time favorite gifts from her children were a DNA test kit and a digital picture frame. Many memories were made with family and friends cruising on the Mississippi River, stopping to eat on a beach. JoAnn loved to drive and was passionate about traveling when she could. She had many hobbies including reading British novels and mysteries, researching the family ancestry, shopping for books, magazines and decorations for the house, and she always kept current on all the worldwide news. She cherished very much her longtime friendship with her best friend from St. Mary’s, Jacqueline.

Surviving are her husband Jack, her children Dan (Gail) of Aurora, Colorado, David (Mary Jo) of Dubuque,  Carol (Tim) Hinderman of Hazel Green, WI, and Mike (Jannifer) of Madison, WI, her grandchildren Tara Baker, Kevin Ayers, Amy Callaway, Josh Ayers, & Emily Ayers, her great-grandchildren Kami Henry, Brody and Bryce Baker, Lola and Dylan Callaway, and a great-great grandchild due in July, a brother in law Jim (Linda) Ayers, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son Thomas, her parents and a brother Bill.

JoAnn would want to thank her family and friends for their love and support, the staff at Stonehill Care Center for the kind and compassionate care she received while there, and Hospice of Dubuque for all they did in her last days.

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

Bonnie J. Kemp

Bonnie J. Kemp, age 78, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital surrounded by her family.  To celebrate Bonnie’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., on Sunday at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Bonnie was born on September 19, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Art and Lucille “Babe” (Hooks) Ruer.

Bonnie graduated from high school, and shortly after married the love her life, Ronald Kemp.  The couple married at Nativity Church on September 25, 1965.  They had 2 wonderful daughters and traveled the world together until Ron sadly passed away on October 17, 2022.  Bonnie was an extremely devoted wife and mom.  She was very active in her community and was involved with several organizations.  She was a member of Nativity Church, Navy Club Auxiliary (Ship 67 Dubuque), Dubuque Womens Counsel of the Boys Club, Dubuque Association of the Blind and held various offices with Brownie and Girl Scouts.  Bonnie truly enjoyed volunteering her time and talents.  She was an avid bowler and Bingo player.  Family trips were always a favorite activity for Bonnie and Ron.  They loved cruising and trips that involved nature and history.  Being with her family brought Bonnie great joy.  They were her pride and joy and she always knew how to make everyone feel special.  She was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Bonnie’s memory include

2 daughters,
Connie (Kevin) Azinger, Pella, IA
and Kimberley (Mark) Merfeld, Peosta, IA;

6 grandchildren,
Abbey (Eric) Pollard, Lacey (Eric) Taylor, Lakyn Merfeld, Bayleigh Merfeld, Alexa Azinger and Levi Azinger;

6 great-grandchildren,
Adyson, Quinten, Avary and William Pollard and Lane and Navy Taylor;

her siblings,
Judy (Wayne) Botsford, Dubuque, IA,
Nancy Thompson, Hurricane, UT,
Debbie (Mark) Mayne, Davenport, IA
and Ronnie (JoAnn) Olinger, Asbury, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ronald Kemp; 2 brothers, Jack Olinger and Tom (Mary) Olinger; and a brother-in-law, Bryan Thompson.

Bonnie’s family would like to thank the Emergency Room, the ICU doctors, especially Dr. Sriram Iyer, MD and Dr. Logan Elongavan, MD, the nurses and staff, as well as the Hospice nurses at Waukesha Memorial Hospital for their compassionate care of Bonnie and her family.

 In lieu of flowers, cards and memorials in Bonnie’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Bonnie Kemp Family.

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

James R. Birch

James R. Birch, 75, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025 at Bethany Home in Dubuque. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 am Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.

He was born on July 2, 1950 in Dubuque, the beloved son of Howard and Kathleen (Rettenmaier) Birch.

Jim worked for John Deere Dubuque Works and the Parts Distribution Center in Milan, IL. Jim joined the carpool to Milan and became the preferred driver in adverse weather. He often attended UAW Holiday meals with his good friend, John Klaas.

Jim was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan known for his vast knowledge of the team. Thanks for the Christmas Day win! After marrying Laurie, his driving skills made him a trusted boat chauffeur for many river outings. Jim was Mr. Fixit to all in the family. He was also the “Batman”. If you had a bat in your house, he would show up with his trusty tennis racket and take care of business. He taught generations of family members to drive with expert phrases like “you’re not a boxer, don’t bob and weave”.

Above all, Jim was a devoted husband, father, son, grandfather, godfather, brother and uncle whose love and kindness shaped every relationship he cherished.

Survivors include his wife, Laurie (Meissner); children, Chris (Crystal) Birch and their children, Joshua (Amber) and Abigail, of Olive Branch, MN; Lee (Jodi) Birch and sons Matthew and Tyler Birch, of Parkersburg, IA; sister, Diane Birch of Dubuque; brothers William (Lynn) Birch of Bolingbrook, IL and Brendon Birch of Platteville, WI.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Geraldine Birch Hurst and nephew, John Birch.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or Bethany Home.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful caregivers at Bethany Home and the dedicated team at Hospice of Dubuque, whose compassion and support brought comfort during Jim’s final days.

Dennis L. Snyder

Dennis Lynn “Duke” Snyder, 78, of Wyoming, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Duke was born on August 3, 1947, in Wyoming, Iowa, the son of Clayton “Slick” Snyder and Gloria “Gwen” (Romer) Snyder. He graduated from Midland High School. He faithfully and honorably served in the United States Marines.

In 1994 Dennis was united in marriage to the love of his life, Alynne Lord, in Muscatine, Iowa. Together they made their home in Wyoming.

Duke was a hardworking man and a true “jack of all trades.” He worked as a farrier and blacksmith and was always willing to help others with his skills and knowledge. He took pride in staying busy and doing things with his hands.

He especially enjoyed horseshoeing and attending rendezvous, where he valued the camaraderie, traditions, and time spent with friends. Dennis also enjoyed spending time outdoors and keeping active. He was a member of the American Legion Post 259, Wyoming.

He is survived by his wife, Alynne Snyder of Wyoming; his children, Terry (Bonnie) Lehman, Robin (Harry) Russell, and Rita Vicroy; his brother, Ronald and Vickie Gottschalk; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Gloria Snyder, brother Gerald “Jerry” and a daughter Stephanie Von Leinen.

At Duke’s request, no services will be held at this time. Dawson Funeral Services of Wyoming is caring for Duke’s family.

Cards of condolences may be directed to Dawson Funeral Services ATTN: Duke Snyder Family Po Box 258 Wyoming, Iowa 52362. Online condolences may be left at www.dawsonfuneral.com.

Kay V. Ross

Kay V. Ross, 89, of Hawkeye Care Center, formerly of Holy Cross Iowa died on December 27, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center surrounded by family.

Visitation will be on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:15 am at the Holy Cross Church in Holy Cross, Iowa.  A mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:30 am. Inurnment in the church cemetery will take place at a later date.

Kay was born on December 7, 1936, to Leo P. and Veronica (Ungs) Brecht.  She was the younger sister to Phyllis and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1954.

After high school, Kay worked at the Dubuque Pack. Kay married Gary A. Ross on August 24, 1957, and together they raised a family in Holy Cross. She returned to the workforce full-time in the 1970’s as secretary of the Del-Que (later Three Rivers) FS store in Holy Cross.  Kay worked her way up to becoming store manager.  As a woman doing a “man’s job”, she was immensely proud of her achievement.  Kay was well liked and respected by her customers and she was happy to have gotten to know so many of the local farmers and their families through her years of service at the Holy Cross office.

In retirement and as a widow, Kay made the most of life. Between volunteer work around Holy Cross, coffee on Thursday mornings with friends at Neumann’s, or travels around the USA, Europe and cruising. She didn’t let the grass grow under her feet.  She loved cooking and hosting holiday events for her family at her home in Holy Cross.  She especially looked forward to the annual Ross Family Pool Party at her daughter’s home in Minnesota. She was always happy, whether she was playing highly competitive card games at the kitchen table, popping the best batches of popcorn in her special pan or telling silly (but true) stories.  Most of all, Kay was happiest at her home, holding court with her growing family flocking around her.

Kay was strong, capable, direct, practical, loving and quick witted.  And absolutely adored. She will be missed terribly.

Survivors include her sons: Mark (Susie) of Waukee, Iowa, Paul (Julie) Ross of Holy Cross, John (Karen) of Dyersville; and daughter, Ann (Dieter) Wimmer of Burnsville, Minnesota; grandchildren: Samantha (Michael) Shindelar and great grandchildren, Elizabeth, Henry and William of Clive, Iowa; Valerie (Brian) Peters and great grandchildren, Emma, Claire and Molly of Urbandale, Iowa; Gary Ross of West Des Moines, Iowa; Ian (Annie) Ross and great grandchildren, Palmer, Knox, Leo and Baby of Tiffin, Iowa; Melissa Nothdorf and great grandchildren, Cayden and Eloise of Cascade, Iowa;  Angela (Ryan) Chrystal and great grandchildren, Ari and Oren of Altoona, Iowa;  and Allison Ross of Ankeny, Iowa. She is also survived by many special nieces, nephews, dear cousins, and countless good friends from Holy Cross.

Kay was preceded in death by her husband Gary in 1992; parents, Leo and Veronica Brecht; sister, Phyllis and brother-in-law John Hoerner; mother and father-in-law, Andrew N. and Marvel G. Ross; brother and sister-in-law, Duane “Pete” and Lois Ross; and nephew, Kevin Ross.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Beyond Bobby foundation.

Kay’s family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center of Dubuque for their kind and loving support over the past year.  They also want to thank the Holy Cross/North Buena Vista Fire & EMS team.  Special thanks also to the staff of the emergency room at MercyOne Medical Center.  Kay was a “frequent flyer” and they were always ready to give her the care she needed.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family, please visit the funeral home website at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Bruce T. Henning

Bruce T. Henning, age 56, of Peosta, IA, was called home to the loving arms of Jesus on December 27, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Bruce’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00-7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds, 14569 Old Highway Road in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bruce’s family.

Bruce was born on September 24, 1969, in Joliet, IL, a son to Thomas and Leslie (Herman) Henning.  He understood quite clearly that life was a journey to be lived to its fullest and each season held a plan and purpose in his life.  Bruce wore many hats throughout his life, and in each chapter he discovered contentment and satisfaction.  He drove truck for over 27 years, he knew every road, curve and dead end in Jo Daviess County as a driver for FedEx, and even invested a few years with Rite Hite before finally realizing his life’s dream of owning his own custom car shop, Henning Hot Rods.  Bruce had thankfully met his beautiful bride, Julie Heinz, while fulfilling his regular routes with FedEx and the two were blessed with a family of their own to love and nurture while Bruce worked his off hours building his auto performance and restoration reputation.  Eventually, he was able to turn his passion into a full-time venture and many folks have been blessed by his talents over the years.  Whether it was a performance upgrade, or a complete frame-off restoration for another classic, Bruce embraced each job as an opportunity to share his natural gifts while earning a living doing when he enjoyed.

For those who knew Bruce well, it was undeniable that he faced each day with an open heart and mind.  He wasn’t always sure what the Lord would bring into his life that day, but he knew that he would make every effort to give God the glory whenever possible.  Bruce believed that truth and love were meant to be shared along with the Good New’s of Jesus Christ.  It didn’t matter if you were a dear friend, a client, or a complete stranger; if at any point you were blessed to share in a conversation with Bruce, it was very likely that his faith was going to be shared with you as well.  Bruce was a faithful member of Great Adventure Church and held regular Sunday morning men’s bible study for anyone in the community to attend in his shop before heading off to their perspective churches for services.  He was also a devoted volunteer with Vintage Torque Fest in Dubuque for many years and again, the love of cars was the main priority, but another opportunity to share Christ’s love was always securely residing in the background of Bruce’s mind.

Bruce was also a relentless husband and father.  He was not an avid sports fan by any stretch of the imagination, but joyfully still made it a point to attend all of Will’s sporting events as he moved through childhood.  His love and devotion for his family was continually on display and his desire to build Julie and the kids their dream home was just one more fine example of allowing himself to decrease for the greater good of those around him.  Bruce was a true force for all that is good in this world and his absence now will definitely be felt in the lives of many who knew and loved him, and consequently in many lives of folks who never met him personally.  Our human hearts possess a permanent wound today with the loss of Bruce from our daily lives, but we know and trust that he has now begun his eternal journey in the perfect presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and in that knowledge, we not only seek, but thankfully find peace.  Thank you, Bruce, for always giving more than you took, for leading by the finest of examples, and for never questioning when it was time to stand vs. when it was a moment which required a little kneeling in order to gain strength, wisdom and patience.  May the comfort of the Lord make your earthly health battles nothing but a distant memory now as you hear those words we all desire to hear…”Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.  Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

Those left to cherish the memory of Bruce include,

his loving wife of 20 years,
Julie Henning, Peosta, IA;

his three adored sons,
Justin Thomas Henning, Hazel Green, WI,
Jacob John “Jake” (Hailey) Henning, Goose, Lake, IA,
and William Bruce “Will” Henning, Peosta, IA;

his mother,
Leslie Whiting, Dixon, TN;

his mother-in-law,
Kathy Heinz, Dubuque, IA,;

his sister-in-law,
Susan Swierk, Peosta, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Bruce was preceded in death by his father-in-law, William Heinz.

In lieu of flowers, a Bruce T. Henning memorial fund has been established.

Bruce’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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