Obituaries Archive

Lonnie B. Eberhart

Lonnie “Lon” Bruce Eberhart (88), longtime Dubuque resident and John Deere engineer, passed away on February 5, 2026 after a brief illness.

Lonnie was born in 1937 to Ted and Bernice (Allen) Eberhart on a farm outside Burlington, Colorado, near the Kansas-Colorado border. Two years later, Lon’s parents welcomed his sister, Connie (Spencer), whose loving pestering kept him laughing, honest, and humble throughout his life. While working on the family farm, Lonnie excelled both academically and athletically and chose an academic scholarship to the University of Colorado over competing football scholarship offers. Through more hard work, Lonnie completed a mechanical engineering degree in four years while washing dishes at a sorority house for extra money. Lonnie’s deep Colorado roots explain lifelong devotion to the Denver Broncos football team.

John Deere in Moline, Illinois, hired Lonnie just before college graduation and placed him on a team of engineers designing a new product, the Motor Grader. His work took him to factories around the world, where Lonnie had many adventures and a few misadventures trying to get back home. One day, a pretty girl working in the copy room (Kay Gebhards) invited him to dinner. Kay would often later recall knowing that evening that she would love Lon forever. And she did: Lon and Kay were married in Moline on August 18, 1962.

A few years later, John Deere relocated Lon’s engineering design team to Dubuque, Iowa. Lon and Kay settled in a three-bedroom bungalow on a private drive off Southern Avenue and began renovations that would last the rest of Lon’s life. They welcomed two sons, Kyle and Lance, who kept them busy with sports, school activities, reckless brother-fighting, and the resulting property destruction.  Sadly, in 1984, Lonnie and Kay lost their older son, Kyle, in a hunting accident, a tragic loss causing lifelong heartbreak.

During his time in Dubuque, Lonnie obtained his private pilot’s license and became a fixture in the local aviation community. He earned his MBA from University of Iowa. He collected antique firearms and authentic Remington statues of Western cowboys. He made enduring friendships with neighbors, former coworkers, and fellow engineers. And he became the resident expert on John Deere tractors.

In his “retirement,” Lonnie continued to work on projects for John Deere, while earning his financial planner/analyst credentials from American Express. Lonnie loved the stock market and later admitted that he liked financial management as much as engineering. He also became a doting “Pappy” to Carly (23) and Sophie (17) Eberhart, helping them catch frogs, bait hooks, learn to drive, and set up stock portfolios. Pappy’s example and coaching have guided both granddaughters toward Engineering degrees, with Carly finishing hers in 2024 and Sophie beginning this year.

Lonnie is survived by his beloved wife, Kay; his son Lance and daughter-in-law Merrily (Archer); his sister, Connie Spencer of Alamosa, Colorado; and his beloved granddaughters, Carly and Sophie. Lonnie is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Bernice (Allen) Eberhart; his brother-in-law, John (Spencie) Spencer, and his son, Kyle.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Greg Shuster, Friend and Neighbor; Carole Hughey, Northeast Iowa Agency on Aging, and Cindy Hanson, Elder Caregiver Extraordinaire; Hospice of Dubuque; MercyOne Dubuque; and the staff at Mt.Carmel Bluffs.

Gerald F. Capesius

Gerald “Jerry” F. Capesius, 77, of La Motte, Iowa, passed away on February 4, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the funeral home with Rev. Andy Upah officiating. Burial will be at St. Theresa Catholic Church Cemetery in La Motte. Military Honors will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jerry was born on September 24, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Robert and Mary Ellen (Tinker) Capesius. He was united in marriage to Patty A. Neyen on October 9, 1970, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque.

What mattered most to Jerry were life’s simple pleasures: his family, his children and grandchildren, time spent with friends, old westerns, classic country music, and an admiration for vintage tractors. He embraced a simple life, and those quiet joys were the heart of who he was.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Patty; son Jeremy Capesius; daughter Dina (Mike)Theisen; grandchildren, Nickolas, Courtney and Megan Capesius, and Jaylen and Keegan Theisen; siblings Elaine (Dan) Olson, David (Julie) Capesius, Daryl Capesius, Ronnie (Marylee) Capesius, and Linda (Bob Hartman) Capesius; brother-in-law Joe Neyen; Godchild Travis Capesius; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Donnie; and family friend Beth Herrig.

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

The family would like to thank Fr. Andy Upah, Deacon Loras Weber, Hospice of Jackson County, all healthcare professionals, and the many visiting neighbors who showed their love to Jerry and the family.

Richard Soat

Richard “Dick” Soat, 82, of Galena, IL, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at MercyOne in Dubuque, IA, after a brief illness. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena. Friends may gather after 10 AM until the service begins. Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born July 24, 1943, in Galena, the son of Elmer and Viola (Temperly) Soat. Dick attended Galena Schools. He married Carol A. Hickie at St. Mary’s in Galena on November 20, 1965. Richard farmed around Galena for most of his life. He was also a member of Local 727, the laborers’ union. In his free time, he enjoyed country music, dancing, and trips to local casinos.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; son, Tom; two grandchildren, Addison and William; brother, Robert (Mary) Soat; in-laws, Sandy Hickie, Marilyn (John) Berlage, Steve (Kelly) Hickie, Alice Knautz, Linda (Cecil) Pfeiffer, and Ty Hickie (Tracey); and many nieces and nephews.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Tom and Anne Hickie; siblings, Helen (Wes) Richardson, Ruth (Chris) Anger, and Carol May Soat; in-laws, Mark Knautz, Jim Hickie, and Mary Hickie; and nieces and nephews, Jason and Jodi Knautz and David Berlage.

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

Joseph Cornelius

Joseph Cornelius “J.C.” Cox, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on February 3, 2026, in Maquoketa, at the age of 78.

Born on October 14, 1947, in Cascade, Iowa, to Joseph and Estelle (McDonnell) Cox, J.C. grew up in the Elwood and Maquoketa areas.  He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1965 and soon after answered the call to serve his country. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, J.C. served three tours during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was wounded in combat and later honorably discharged. His time in the service stayed with him and profoundly shaped his life.

J.C.’s life was marked by his dedication to his family, friends and his community. On July 28, 1973, he married the love of his life, Darlene Skoff, in Sugar Creek, Iowa. They were blessed with three children.

After his military service, he managed the Rose Garden in Maquoketa and worked as the warehouse manager for Waterbed Creations in Grand Mound. He later worked as a rural mail carrier until his retirement. Retirement didn’t slow him down—he found great joy in owning and operating the Lakehurst Riverside Campground in Maquoketa, where his love for the outdoors and people naturally came together.

J.C. was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa and the Knights of Columbus. His commitment to service was further exemplified through his membership in the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Maquoketa and the Maquoketa VFW, where he proudly served on the Jackson County Veterans Honor Squad.

Known for his easygoing nature and gift for conversation, J.C. had many great friends and made new friends wherever he went. He loved life’s simple pleasures—working at the campground, playing cards, swapping stories with his morning coffee group, and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day each year. He shared a close bond with his sisters and unconditionally loved his children, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. By his side through it all was his beloved dog, Mollie, his constant companion and best friend.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Darlene Cox of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jessica (Jason) Tracy of DeWitt, IA, Angela (Shawn) Skladzien of Maquoketa, IA, and Jacob Cox of Chicago, IL; 7 grandchildren: Brett Tracy, Haley Croft, Paytone Tracy, Adrianna Skladzien, Logan Skladzien, Brandon Skladzien and Sophia Skladzien and 5 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way; sisters, Joann (Ronnie) Eden of Swisher, IA, Monica Cox of Swisher, IA, Teresa (Jim) Holtz of Lost Nation, IA, and Maureen Shanahan of Swisher, IA; brother-in-law, John Pauwels of Moline, IL; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Catherine Pauwels, and brothers-in-law Gene Grant and Bill Shanahan.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A public graveside and burial with military rites will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Joseph “J.C.” Cox memorial fund has been established.

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

Sandra J. Theisen

Sandra J. Theisen, 76, of Dubuque, died Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sandy was born July 19, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Paul and Rosemary (Pfiffner) Noonan.

Sandy graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then furthered her education in nursing.

Sandy worked as a nurse and caregiver her entire life; working at Mercy Hospital in the NICU, Luther Manor, and doing home health care.

Throughout her life, Sandy enjoyed spending time with family, traveling, doing arts and crafts such as drawing and painting.  She made beautiful greeting cards for special occasions.  She enjoyed cooking and baking; she would cook enough to feed an army.  Sandy also enjoyed checking the weather from time to time.

Survivors include her four children, Lisa (Dan) Huinker of O’Fallon, MO, Tom (Talle Hogrefe) Theisen of Golden, CO, Lori Theisen of Waunakee, WI, and Michael Theisen of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Ben and Bethany Huinker, Brando Theisen, and Andrew Theisen; four siblings, Bonnie (John) Streinz of North Liberty, IA, Nancy Noonan of Dubuque, Gene (Robin) Noonan of Dubuque, and Scot (Laura) Noonan of Baraboo, WI and several nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Linda (Jim) Somerville; and nephew, Brian Somerville.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Ringold, Dr. Nachtman and the nurses and aides at Mercy and Finley, Paramount Ambulance, as well as, Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care.

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

Dennis F. Welter

Dennis Francis Welter, age 69, of Allure of Mt. Carroll, IL, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at FHN Memorial Hospital, Freeport, Il.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, IL, with Fr. Bosco Aruldoss officiating. Burial will follow at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. on Saturday at the Church.

Dennis was born on July 23, 1956 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Dorrance H. “Sparky” and Marilyn A. (Kieffer) Welter.

He was formerly employed at the Jo Daviess Workshop in Galena, IL. Dennis enjoyed stock car racing, dancing and Karaoke.

Surviving is a brother, Richard P. “Dick” (Margaret) Welter of Kieler, Wisconsin, nieces and nephews, a brother-in-law, Donald Stumpf of Asbury, IA and his “Big Brother” Jim Potter of Dubuque, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sparky and Marilyn, two brothers, Dorrance “Junior Welter and David Welter in infancy, and his sister, Kathy Ann Stumpf.

The family wishes to give special thanks to the nurses and staff at Allure of Mt. Carroll and FHN Memorial Hospital for the kindness and compassion shown to Dennis.

Memorials may be given to the Jo Daviess Workshop, 706 S. West St., Galena, IL. 61036.

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

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

Donald J. Wolverton

Donald J. Wolverton, 79, of Apple River, IL, passed away February 2, 2026, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, IA. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL, is assisting the family.

He was born on March 5, 1946, in Chicago, IL, the son of Claude and Margaret (Stanis) Wolverton. Don graduated from Austin High School and earned an associate’s degree from City Colleges of Chicago. He served his country in the United States Army from December 17, 1965, until his honorable discharge on December 11, 1967, stationed at Fort Bliss, El Paso, TX. He married Susan Baumann on December 15, 1965, in Chicago. Don worked for thirty-eight years with the Chicago Police Department, retiring as a Sergeant in 2009.

He is survived by his devoted wife of sixty years, Susan; two daughters, Laura (Edwin) Caraballo of Chicago and Kristine (Charles) Marose of FL; three grandchildren, Samantha (Ivan) Ramos of Chicago and Seth and Vaughn Marose of FL; his great-grandson, Reign Ramos of Chicago; and a brother, Gerald Wolverton.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, Vincent Marose, and a sister, Claudette Davis.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to Dr. Gregory Vandigo, Ennoble Nursing Home, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion during this difficult time.

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

Steven J. Offermann

Steven J. Offermann, 62, of Urbandale, Iowa and formerly of Dyersville, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026, surrounded by family, after a long battle and courageous fight to beat cancer.

Visitation will be held 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. on Sunday February 8, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.

Burial will be held at a later date at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.

Steve was born April 26, 1963, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Ernie and Doris (Dunkel) Offermann.  After graduating Beckman High School in 1981, he had several roles over his 35 years at Bob Brown Chevrolet, with his specialty being finance manager. He was a great mentor to numerous co-workers and friends along the way.

Steve was best known for his quick wit and humor (a heart that was too large to hold and beat with solid gold).  No matter the day, he always had time for a beer and a long conversation with anyone who stopped by his garage.  While Steve was an easy-going soul, there was one thing he was particularly meticulous about, his garden, yard and landscaping (keeping them mowed and manicured).

It was rare for Steve to walk around his house or neighborhood without a dog loyally following close behind, waiting to be spoiled with toys & treats.  There was no place he found more happiness in than to be surrounded by his family and friends (and there were few places more joyful and full of laughter than in Steve’s company).

Survivors include his wife, Vicki Miller Offermann, daughter, Jessica (Tim) Kennedy-Sinnwell of Clive, his mother, Doris Offermann of New Vienna, siblings: Kate (Larry) Steffensmeier of Dyersville, Tammy (Ron) Ihde of Cedar Falls, Jason (Cindy) Offermann of Dyersville; in-laws: Cindy Lewis of Urbandale, Greg (Lisa) Miller of Omaha and Kenneth (Yvonne) Miller of Pewaukee.  He was also survived by nieces: Lindsay (Luke) Homes, Alesha (Warren) Bynoe, Sophie Steffensmeier, Kolbey (Ben Stecklein) Steffensmeier, Emma (Evan Haddeman) Angen, Sydnie Offermann, Kelsey Miller, Amber (Matt) Klein and nephews: Connor Offermann, Brandon (Robyn) Miller, Grant Miller and his beloved, loyal dogs: Minnie and Roxi.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ernie Offermann in 2004, in-laws: Fred and Jean Miller, nephew, Austin Gerner and numerous other loving aunts, uncles and cousins; and many of his beloved dogs.

A warm and grateful thanks to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, the staff of Care Initiatives of Hospice of Manchester and for the endless love and support of family & friends.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

James T. Campbell

James Templeton Campbell, 70, of Houston, TX, passed away Monday, February 2, 2026, at Buckingham Assisted Living Facility in Houston.

Services will be held privately in Dubuque, Iowa at a date and time yet to be determined.

James was born February 25, 1955 in Dubuque, the son of R. Lyndsay and Susan Valeria (Altman) Campbell.

James was a gifted artist and photographer.  His work impressed all who had the opportunity to see it.  James loved to travel.   He split his time between Houston and Dubuque, where he spent his summers.  He was a devoted son and brother.

James is survived by his brothers, David M. Campbell, of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Robert L. Campbell II, of Clemson, SC, and Ian C. Campbell, of Los Angeles, CA; and three nephews, a niece, two great-nieces and a great-nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Robert Collier Campbell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, NPH USA 20 North Wacker Drive • Suite 4000 • Chicago, IL 60606-3193
888.201.8880 • nphusa.org

Lucille J. Flagel

Lucille J. Flagel, 100, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, January 29, 2026, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Born Lucille Jeanette Miller on September 17, 1925, in Jackson County, Iowa, she was the twin daughter of Albert and Florence (Krumviede) Miller. She weighed less than 2 pounds at birth and spent the first 30 days of her life on the oven door in a shoebox.  Her sister Lucinda died at birth.  Lucille’s early years were spent receiving her education at the Sommerville Country School in Jackson County.  Her heart found its match in Marvin L. Flagel, whom she married on June 10, 1943, in Spragueville, Iowa. Their union was a testament to love and partnership until Marvin’s passing on November 17, 1987. Together, they began their life in Clinton before settling on a farm in the Emeline area of Jackson County. As a farmwife, Lucille embraced rural life, raising a family and tending to the brown Swiss cows that dotted their land.

After retiring from farm life, Lucille and Marvin moved to Maquoketa, where she became an accomplished seamstress.  Beyond her family and sewing, Lucille enjoyed traveling and exploring new places with a group of friends.

Lucille’s legacy is carried on by her children: Harlan Flagel of Blue Grass, IA, Steven Flagel of Zwingle, IA, and Scott (Jeannie) Flagel of Baldwin, IA; 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, and 13 step-great-grandchildren;. A very special niece, Patti Dague, along with many other special friends, nieces, and nephews, also survive her. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Marvin, her infant son James, infant twin sister Lucinda, brothers Meryl and Donald Miller, two daughters-in-law Dorothea Flagel and Verna Flagel, and a very special niece, Vicki Bickford.

A Graveside Service and Burial celebrating her life will be held at 2 P.M., Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Bridgeport Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.  There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Bridgeport Cemetery Association.

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

Mary E. Barth

Mary E. Barth of Dubuque, formerly of Durango, Iowa, died peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Stonehill Care Center.

A prayer service will be held at 1:00 pm Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 5:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be 10:30 am Monday, February 9, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Mary was born on October 16, 1938, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, daughter of Alfred and Bernadette (Riniker) Kennicker. On July 7, 1962, she married Melvin Barth at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Buena Vista. Mary and Melvin raised their family and farmed in the Durango area from 1965 until 2023 when they moved to Dubuque.

Family was her pride and joy, especially her grandchildren, and she made sure no one ever left her house hungry. Her holiday meals and assorted desserts were a special treat. Mary enjoyed tending her flowers, vegetable garden, and raspberry patch. She also provided childcare for family, friends, and neighbors for many years and took special care of each and every one.

Survivors include her husband, Melvin; daughters Elaine (Tom) Majerus of Dickeyville, WI, Joan (Mike) Steffen of Holy Cross, IA, Ellen (Kevin) Habel of Swisher, IA, and Marcia (Michael) Leick of North Liberty, IA; grandchildren Tyler (Kari) Majerus, Brian (Katie) Majerus, Valerie (Dustin) Kieler, Evan Majerus, Jerry (Meggan) Sigwarth, Stacey (Mitch) Bryson, Amber (Josh) Feldmann, Ashley (Jake) Lansing, Sam (Emily) Habel, Ben (Liz) Habel, Claire Habel, Carter Leick, and Nolan Leick; great-grandchildren Vernon and Clive Majerus, Lily and Levi Majerus, Caleb, Jonah and Micah Sigwarth, Estella Bryson, and Calvin Kieler; brother Gerald Kennicker; sisters-in-law Eileen Merfeld, Dorothy Kennicker, Dorothy Crews, and Alice Barth; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, father and mother-in-law Henry and Irene (Sprank) Barth; siblings and in-laws Edward Kennicker, Stella (Joe) Bertjens, Ray (Irma) Kennicker, Marita (Sam) Etter, Lawrence (Eunice) Kennicker, Teresa (Robert) Hefel, Frank (Kathryn) Kennicker, Clarence (Florence) Kennicker, Karen Kennicker, Leroy Kennicker, Leon Kennicker, Roger Barth, and Dorothy (Loras) Meyer.

The family would like to thank the staff and Mary’s friends at Stonehill Care Center for their compassion and care.

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 Mary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Dawn Jackson

Dawn Jackson, age 66, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away on February 3rd, 2026, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, IA, following a courageous battle with cancer.  To honor Dawn’s life a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dawn’s family.

Born on August 13, 1959, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Ronald and Suzanne (Tschiggfrie) Scheffert.  Dawn was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, sister, and daughter. She married her high school sweetheart, James Jackson, on June 25, 1982, and together they shared 43 years of life filled with love and laughter. They were blessed with a daughter, Christina, whom Dawn loved deeply and cherished beyond measure.

Dawn found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed shopping, thrifting at junk stores, watching Turner classic movies and Ancient Aliens, and spending time over a good cup of coffee. She had a deep love for jewelry and proudly served for many years as a jewelry manager at Younkers, a role she held with dedication and pride until the store’s closure. Known for her kindness, strength, and warmth, Dawn had a gentle way of bringing comfort and happiness to everyone around her.

Dawn is survived by her husband, James Jackson, East Dubuque, IL; her daughter, Christina (Chris) Welter, East Dubuque, IL; her beloved granddaughter, Mia Welter, at home; her mother, Sue Scheffert, Dubuque, IA; and her sisters, Beth (Joe) Ryan, East Dubuque, IL, Rhonda Scheffert, Dubuque IA, and Amy Risavy, Tampa, FL; along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ron Scheffert.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation for the love and support shown during this difficult time and will hold a celebration of life at a later date for all who knew and loved Dawn.

Dawn’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff, especially Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care throughout her illness.

In lieu of flowers, a Dawn L. Jackson memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences for Dawn’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Wayne R. Klaren

Wayne R. Klaren, 91, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away Peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home.

The family will greet friends and relatives from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 26m 2026 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, where services will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Tyler Raymond officiating.  Full military honors will follow services.

Wayne was born March 18, 1934, in Winthrop, Iowa, son of Leo and Evelyn Klaren.  He received his education in the Lamont High School.   Wayne was united in marriage to Ann (White) Klaren on February 13, 1960, in St. Paul’s Church in Worthington, Iowa.  Together they farmed in the rural Worthington, Iowa until 1987.  He then worked for 10 years at Modernfold in Dyersville, Iowa.

Wayne served in the US Army for two years he was a corporal in an Infantry division, serving 18 months in Germany.

A man of many passions, Wayne found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life, he loved fishing, playing cards, restoring his beloved John Deere tractors, and spending time with those he cherished the most.  If he wasn’t at home, he could often be found at his daughter’s salon chatting with her clients or at his son’s home, happily mowing the lawn.  Wayne never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren-whether cheering from the stands, chauffeuring them where they needed to go, or cooking and baking their favorite treats.

He attended mass regularly, having a strong faith in God.  He is a member of St. Paul’s Parish in Worthington, Iowa.

He is survived by his wife Ann Klaren of Worthington, IA; his children,  Sara (Kevin) Wilgenbusch of Rickardsville, IA; seven grandchildren, Alyssa (Matt) Lattner, Adam (Erica) Wilgenbusch, Alyssa Wilgenbusch, Nathan Klaren, Chris Klaren, Josh Klaren and Gavin Tigges; one great grandchild, Huxlee Lattner and one on the way; his sibling Mary Lee (Ladd) Wessels of Dundee, IA; sisters and brother-in-laws.  Janice Tegeler of Dyersville, IA, Harry (Mary Lou) White of Worthington, IA and a sister-in-law, Mary Jane White of Dyersville, IA

He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved sons, Jerry Klaren and David (Jenny) Klaren; his brothers, Gerald Klaren and Darryl (Marilyn) Klaren; his father and mother-in-law, Ed and Louise White; four brothers-in-law, Elmer White, George Hosch, Larry Tegeler and Justin Runde; and two sisters-in-laws, Lois Hosch and Delores Runde.

An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

JoAnn E. Mahoney

JoAnn Esther Mahoney, 85, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026.

In accordance with JoAnn’s wishes there will be no visitation. A private burial service will be held at a later date at Resurrection Cemetery in Asbury, IA. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

JoAnn was born on May 9,1940, in Dubuque, the daughter of William L. and Rosella E. (Reinker) Kingsley. She graduated from Senior High School. She was formerly married to Ernest Motsch and together they were blessed with three children. On March 3, 1979, she married Stuart K. Mahoney. She was employed in the cafeteria at Mercy Hospital and then as a CNA at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs, CO. JoAnn volunteered at Mercy Hospital for many years after retirement.

JoAnn loved to travel, her favorite place was Bryce Canyon, Utah. Her and her beloved Stu lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado for years and loved taking rides in the mountains. JoAnn said her best accomplishment was having her children. She said that she was proud of each of them, they were her reason for living and loved them so much.

She is survived by her three children, Calvin (Leslie) Motsch, Julie Motsch and Joyce (Jeff) Welty; grandchildren, Zachary (Erika) Motsch, Jennifer (Heath) Kohl, Ellen (Alex Miller) Motsch, Eain Meyer, Abby Meyer, Claire (Ethan Palmer) Kearney, Jackson (Ashley) Kearney, Noah Kearney, Cassie Kearney; great grandchildren, Finnegan, Aidan, Addison, Dawson, Brynlee, Stella, Weston, Madison, Katherine, Alayna, Aubrey, Kingsley, Kingston, ZoRyan; and very dear friend Robert “Bob” Wolf.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband Stuart Mahoney, parents William and Rosella Kingsley and her very dear friends Von, Millie, Shirley and Donna.

In lieu of flowers or memorial gifts, please donate to Hospice of Dubuque in memory of JoAnn E. Mahoney.

We would like to thank Grand Meadows for their genuine compassion and care.

Kay F. Barfels

The moon rose on Kay F. Barfels life on February 2, 2026, at home. She lives on in our memories, stories, and hearts.

A private family burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque. Those who want to come talk or laugh with Mama Kay may find her (near Stacey) overlooking the Mississippi at Linwood Cemetery.  Her wit, passion for learning and travel, and her ability to allow the talents of others to shine will be celebrated with a large pizza and ice cream party once the weather is more to her liking.

The sun rose on Kay’s life on October 9, 1940. She was office manager of Dubuque Internal Medicine for 35 years. In retirement, she cherished gatherings with her beloved work family. Kay had 11 loving years with Gary Huebner (Dubuque) and his family. She and Gary made friends travelling the country, but also on the Riverwalk, at church, at the mall, and in Strawberry Point.

Kay’s mind and body remain alive through her daughter, Sarah (Melanie House) Barfels. Their connection can never be lost, only change form. She is also survived by younger siblings Larry (Kathy), Judy (Bob), and Jerry.

She is joining her parents, Frances and Dean, brother Barry, and many beloved Siamese cats.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may go to First Congregational Church of Dubuque or to Hospice of Dubuque.

Sarah is deeply grateful for the care given by Melanie House, Gary Huebner, Hospice of Dubuque, Molly Manders, and Peggie Davis.