Obituaries Archive

Marvin D. Holland

Marvin Dewey Holland, 65, passed away at his home in Galena, IL on July 2, 2026. In accordance with Marvin’s wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is in charge of the arrangements.

He was born on May 31, 1961, in Galena to Lewis A. and Marilyn B. (Zeal) Holland. On Nov. 25, 1995, he married Jane A. Vaughn at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Galena. Marvin spent his entire adult life working in the construction industry, where he developed a reputation for his craftsmanship and passion for restoration carpentry. He took great pride in preserving historic buildings and enjoyed bringing old structures back to life. Marvin was rarely seen without a hat, most often supporting his beloved Chicago Cubs. A loyal Chicago Bears fan. Marvin and his wife were the proud owners of historic Camp 19 on Pool 12 of the Mississippi River near Galena. He cherished the property’s rich history and enjoyed sharing its stories with others. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, and spending time on the river. Marvin was also a long-time member of the Galena Boat Club. He was a member of the Galena High School Class of 1979 and was especially proud to have earned the Boy Scouts’ Order of the Arrow honor.

Marvin is survived by his wife, Jane Holland; his daughter, Kelsey (Owen) Skahill of Dubuque, IA; his sister, Nancy (Greg) Johnson of Roseville, MI; his nieces, Kim Herman of Mount Clemens, MI, and Lori Herman of Roseville, MI; and his great-niece, Taylor (Mason) Heilman of St. Clair Shores, MI.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Irene J. Manning

Irene June (Herlofsky) Manning, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was being cared for at Hawkeye Care Center, where she was hoping to recover from a recently fractured hip.

The Funeral Service for Irene will be at 11:00 am Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Rice Lake Bible Chapel in Maple Grove, MN.

Born June 9, 1932, in Minneapolis, Irene placed her trust in Jesus at Elim Baptist Church, a decision that shaped her life of faith, kindness, and devotion. She met her husband, Kenneth “Ken” Manning, in the Edison High School band-she played percussion, he played trumpet. They married on June 13, 1953, celebrating 70½ years of a joyful, Christ‑centered marriage before Ken’s passing in 2024.

Together they built a remarkable family legacy: six children, twenty‑two grandchildren, thirty seven great‑grandchildren, and an extended family of 84. Irene cherished each one, praying faithfully and celebrating every milestone.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ken, daughter Cheryl, son Alan, granddaughter Jessica, and great‑grandson Kenneth Mark. She is lovingly remembered by her children, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and many extended family members.

Irene lived out the truth of Joshua 24:15-“As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Her faith, warmth, and steadfast love leave a legacy that will continue for generations.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Lost Timber Bible Camp – https://www.losttimber.org/donate

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

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

Randy J. Sauser

Randy J. Sauser, age 72, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, June 28, 2026.  To celebrate Randy’s life, private family services will be held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting his family.

Randy was born on November 16, 1953, in Dubuque, the son of Robert and Leona (Menadue) Sauser .

He attended school in Dubuque and graduated from Hempstead High School.  Randy worked at John Deere Dubuque Works and later at Flexsteel Industries as an upholsterer.

He was a Minnesota Vikings fan, enjoyed watching WWE Wrestling and regularly tried his luck buying lottery tickets.  Randy had a special bond with his dog Asia.  He loved his kids and adored his grandkids.  He will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Randy’s memory include

his children,
Heather Sauser, Dubuque, IA
and Ryan Sauser, Dubuque, IA;

his 6 grandchildren;

his siblings,
Shawn A. (Sandra J.) Sauser, Peosta, IA,
Douglas C. Sauser, Dubuque, IA
and Mary L. (James E.) Patch, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Amber Rodas; 4 brothers, Gregory Sauser, Gary Sauser, Robert Sauser and John Sauser.

Randy’s family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice, especially Keisha, for all the care and compassion.

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

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

John G. Mehrl

John G. “Rusty” Mehrl, age 101, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Ennoble Manor.  To celebrate Rusty’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Fr. Raymond Burkle officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Rusty was born on June 1, 1925, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of John A. and Mary (Klinkhammer) Mehrl.

He graduated from Loras College with his Bachelor of Science Degree.  Rusty then attended St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana for 1 year and went back to Loras College for 1 year in the seminary program.  He honorably served his country from 1944 until 1947 in the U.S. Naval Aviation Program.  Rusty was employed as a teacher for a short time at Sacred Heart, but in 1966 he went flying full time.  He started flying for Beyer Aviation and retired from there in 1985.  After that he flew for various companies, including Merkel Engineers, until his final retirement in 2009.  Rusty was a faith filled man who read the Bible daily and was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Church, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and was inducted into the Holy Family Hall of Fame.  He loved music.  His father taught him piano and he also took lessons from the Klein Music Academy in Dubuque.  Rusty loved being active, which contributed to his good, long, healthy life.  He enjoyed playing pool, hockey, basketball, sailing, canoeing, camping and riding his bicycle all over town.  Rusty was active in his community and was a member of the American Legion Dubuque Post 6, volunteered at local nursing homes, sang in the church choir and played the organ.  He was a humble, kind and hard working man who will be greatly missed!

Those left to cherish Rusty’s memory include his nieces and nephews.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Dr. William J. (Mary) Mehrl, Sr. Martha Mehrl, Robert (Jane) Mehrl and Martin (Shirley) Mehrl.

Rusty’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble Manor for their wonderful care.

Cards and memorials in Rusty’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. John “Rusty” Mehrl Family.

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

Juliann D. Schumann

Juliann D. Schumann, 85, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, July 2, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be held 8:30 – 10:30 am on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Mass of Christian Burial commence at 11 am at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

Julie was born on January 24, 1941, the daughter of John and Veronica (Jaeger) Bergfeld Sr. She married Elmer F. Schumann on June 4, 1963, in Holy Family Catholic Church in New Mellery, Iowa.  She raised their five children and taught the children and grandchildren valuable life lessons. She worked for over 20 years for Ertl Toy Company as well as the Fatted Calf in Dyersville for several years. She loved to cook and welcomed all family and friends into her kitchen filled with love and a delicious meal. She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish.

Survivors include her children: Carol (Dave) Fortman of Worthington, Billy (Sally) Schumann, of Garber, Ricky (Margie) Schumann and Mary (Joel) Loeffelholz, both of Dyersville; grandchildren: Ryan (Abby Ruby) and Collin Walters, Kevin (Makenzie) and Trevor (fiancé, Chloe Plumley) Schumann, Ben, Dustin (Cheyenne) and Tyler (Haley) Loeffelholz, and Brian (Melissa), Brad (Katie), Becky and Brandon Schumann; great grandchildren: Danuel, Jared, Emma, and Wyatt Loeffelholz, Rosalie Loeffelholz, and Justin, Colton, and Walter Schumann, Claire Schumann, and Tayte and Ryker Schumann; brother, George (Joanne) Bergfeld; in-laws: Diane Bergeld, Shirley Bergfeld, Elias (Roxy) Schumann, Francine Tucker, Flavia Talley, Florence Juhl, Darlene Schumann

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer in 2023, her parents and a son, James Schumann in 2023; siblings: Leo Bergfeld, Edwin (Juanita) Bergfeld, John Bergfeld, Gladys (Jack) Kress, Darlene (Joe) Dolanc, Theresa (Clem) Gansemer, Danny Bergfeld; in-laws: Edward (Karyl) Schuman, Frieda Schuman (in infancy), Fern Kadlec and Everett Schuman, Emmett (Bernadette) Schumann, Herman Kadlec, Fred Juhl and Carl Tucker, Dale Talley, and Fred (Fay) Coimarco.

The family would like to thank the staff at Above and Beyond Hospice of Monticello for their support and care.

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.

Joseph A. Rokusek

Joseph Andrew Rokusek, 88, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at  Stonehill Communities. He peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord surrounded by his loving family.

Private family services will be held to honor Joseph’s life. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers at this time.

Joseph was born August 24, 1937, in Dubuque, the son of Joseph  and Martha (Duehr) Rokusek. He married the love of his life, Karen Frances Basten on October 31, 1959.

He worked a combined total of 44 years at the Dubuque Packing Company and FDL, then retired after working 13 years in security at the Mystique Casino.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and traveling to Arizona, New York and Hawaii. His hobbies included bow hunting and fishing. In 2007, his 9 pt Whitetail buck was registered with Pope and Young. He was faithful, hardworking, an excellent cook, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Rokusek; six children, Dennis (Kelli) Rokusek of Cedar Falls, IA, Steve (Mickey) Rokusek of Dubuque, Jeff (LaVonne) Rokusek of Dubuque, Deb Gaul of Dubuque, Sherrie (Dan) Estal of Adams, NY, and Lynn (Joe) Lieb of Dubuque; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; brother, Art (Karen) Rokusek of Dubuque; sister, Lorraine Kleinschrodt of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one grandson, David Estal, one son-in-law, Don Gaul, and one brother Gene (Lora) Rokusek.

Thank you to the staff at Stone Hill Communities and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

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

Cheryl J. Hayes

Cheryl J. (Shook) Hayes, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 2:00 pm, Sunday, July 5, 2026 at Grace Baptist Church at 3966 Asbury Road in Dubuque.  Graveside Burial Services will be 10:00 am, Monday, July 6 in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Cheryl was born on July 26, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Lloyd James Shook and Ellen Lucille (Allen) Shook. She was raised in Norfolk and Cody, Nebraska, and graduated from Kilgore High School.

On March 9, 1972, Cheryl married the love of her life, Michael Albert Hayes, in Yankton, South Dakota. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

Cheryl was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy came from caring for her family. She worked throughout her life, including at Aladdin Magic Cleaners, Premier Laundry, and most recently at Dollar Tree near JFK.

A faithful member of Grace Baptist Church in Dubuque, Cheryl loved studying and reading her Bible and faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher. She also enjoyed writing prose and poetry, crocheting, and spending time with those she loved. Her strong faith and gentle spirit touched the lives of many.

Cheryl will be remembered for her unwavering faith, compassionate heart, quiet strength, and deep love for her family. Her legacy of kindness and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Hayes; her children,  Tracey Hayes, Aaron (Tammy) Hayes, Jesse (Nicole) Hayes; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her son, Matthew Wayne Hayes; a grandson, Daniel Hayes; her parents, Lloyd and Ellen Shook; and her siblings, Lavonne, Robert, and Jacqueline.

A memorial fund has been established in Cheryl’s memory.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com or Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service Facebook Page.

Barbara J. Blasen

Barbara J. “Barb” Blasen passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026 in Knoxville, Tennessee while visiting relatives.

Visitation will be on Friday, July 10th, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, concluding the visitation a tribute ceremony will be held by the Nursing Honor Guard. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Barb was born December 30, 1936 in Dubuque to Arthur and Mabel (Hark) Jungk. She was one of eight children with a very close bond.

She graduated high school from St. Patrick’s Catholic School and attended Mercy Hospital Nursing School graduating in 1958. She went on to work at Mercy Hospital, Dubuque Healthcare Center, Medical Associates Clinic and finally retiring from The American Red Cross in 2004.

Barb married William (Bill) Blasen on May 27, 1961. She spent 53 wonderful years with Bill before he passed away. They raised 6 children together whom they were extremely proud of.

Barb spent her spare time volunteering, crafting, sewing, crocheting, origami (particularly money) and traveling (Especially cruising and Hawaii). She was a camp counselor, taught swimming to disabled youth, served at the soup kitchen, camp nurse at the kids campouts. She enjoyed camping at Lake Joy. Her car was known to stop at every garage sale and thrift shop. Her hands were never idle.

Barb is survived by her children who all adored her, Steven Blasen, Paul Blasen, Ann Leppert, Lori (Scott) Butterbaugh, Ellen (Dave) Haberkorn, Charles (Gina) Blasen. Grandchildren Kaitlyn & Kyle Blasen, Patrick & Allison Leppert, Drew & Nicole Butterbaugh, Andy, Tony & Hayley Haberkorn and Maggie, William & Thomas Blasen. Siblings Joan Gizzi, Bob (Kaye) Jungk, Mary Borges and John (Molly) Jungk, and many in laws.

She is preceded in death by her husband William, infant daughter Elizabeth, siblings Alice Weigman, Thomas Jungk, and Nancy Gourley.

The family would like to give special thanks to the residents of Woodlands Apartments where she lived since 1999, she consider all as part of her family. The family would also like to give thanks to Joan Gizzi and her family for the special love and care they always showed to mom, especially in her final days.

Mom was looking forward to being with Dad in Heaven and will be waiting for the rest of us with open arms and a big smile.

Barb is survived by her children who all adored her, Steven Blasen, Paul Blasen, Ann Leppert, Lori (Scott) Butterbaugh, Ellen (Dave) Haberkorn, Charles (Gina) Blasen. Grandchildren Kaitlyn & Kyle Blasen, Patrick & Allison Leppert, Drew & Nicole Butterbaugh, Andy, Tony & Hayley Haberkorn and Maggie, William & Thomas Blasen. Sisters Joan Gizzi, Bob (Kaye) Jungk, Mary Borges and John (Molly) Jungk, and many in laws.

She is preceded in death by her husband William and infant daughter Elizabeth.

The family would like to give special thanks to the residence of Woodlands Apartments where she lived since 1999, she consider all as part of her family. The family would also like to give thanks to Joan Gizzi and her family for the special love and care they always showed to mom, especially in her final days.

Mom was looking forward to being with Dad in heaven and will be waiting for the rest of us with open arms and a big smile.

Dorrance Pitz

Dorrance Pitz, 92, of Dubuque, passed away June 25, 2026.

In keeping with his wishes, no public services will be held.

Dorrance was born on March 15, 1934, to Waldo and Coletta (Germaine) Pitz in Dubuque, IA.

He was united in marriage to Loretta (Burke) Pitz on June 11, 1955, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, Dubuque.

Dorrance loved to fish, hunt, bowl and play golf. He also enjoyed woodworking. He was always willing to help everyone and if you called, he was there instantly, tools in hand ready to lend a helping hand. He also cherished his beloved dog, Rosie. She was his pride and joy.

Dorrance is survived by his four children, Linda (Jim) Lehman of Farley, IA, Thomas Pitz, of Dubuque, Tina (Robert) Hancock and Lisa (Gene) Pitz-Rokusek, both of Dubuque; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta; mother, Coletta (Sylvester “Slim”) Kamm; mother-in-law, Ruth Burke; brothers, Walter “Wally” (Doris) Pitz, and Ronald Pitz.

Dorrance’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center for the care and compassion throughout the last 5 years, and to MercyOne Cardiac ICU unit and Hospice of Dubuque for their care during his final days.

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

Sr. Terese Shinners, BVM

Sister Terese Shinners, BVM, (Ellena), 93, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Terese was an elementary teacher at St. Jerome, in Chicago and St. Anthony, Casper, Wyo., a secondary teacher at Xavier HS, St. Louis; Mount Carmel Academy, Wichita, Kans.; Holy Angels Academy, Milwaukee; and Carmel HS, Mundelein, Ill; and registrar at Regina Dominican HS in Wilmette. Ill., and Carmel HS, Mundelein, Ill.  She was an education researcher and an editor with General Learning Corp, Northbrook, Ill., and volunteered at the association for the blind, healthcare facilities and interfaith groups.

She was born on July 30, 1932, in Milwaukee to Frank and Teresa (Toner) Shinners. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1950, from St. Jude Parish, Wauwatosa, Wis. She professed first vows on March 19, 1953, and final vows on July 16, 1958.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Anne (Alphonse “Al”)Kraus and Margaret Shinners; and brothers Tom (Patricia) and Bill Shinners. She is survived by a sister-in-law Roberta “Bobbi” Shinners, Brookfield, Wis., nieces, nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 75 years.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements. 

Penny M. Block

Penny Marie Block, 49, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday evening, June 29, 2026, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

Penny Marie Glaser was born on October 9, 1976, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Dennis Harlan and Connie Lynn (Wallroff) Glaser. She was raised in Bellevue and was a 1995 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.  On June 25, 2016, she married her soulmate, Jeremy John Block, in Delmar, Iowa.

Penny was known for her warm heart, her steady presence, and the kindness she shared so freely with those around her. She worked in various roles at Family Dollar in Maquoketa for 19 years, where she formed lasting connections and was appreciated by many. For the past three years, she stayed at home to watch her grandbabies, a role she cherished deeply and embraced with love and devotion.

Penny found happiness in the simple and meaningful moments of life. She enjoyed bowling, reading, softball, and traveling, with Las Vegas and Myrtle Beach among her favorite destinations. She also loved beating Jeremy at pool and going to the casinos with her dad. Above all, she treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, and her greatest joy came from being surrounded by the people she loved most.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Jeremy Block of Maquoketa, IA; her children, Tayler (David) Hayes of Maquoketa, IA, Alana (Jacob) Dunnwald of Cedar Rapids, IA, Gabrielle (Kameron) Dammeier of Maquoketa, IA, Olivia (Keith) Yarolem of Maquoketa, IA, Justin Block of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Wrigley Block of Maquoketa, IA; her father, Dennis Glaser of Maquoketa, IA; and her brothers, Dale Michels, Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, and DJ (Courtney) Glaser of Dubuque, IA. She was a special nana to Malia, Isla, Kohen, Niklas, and Atlas, and one more grandchild on the way, all of whom brought her immeasurable pride and happiness.  She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents, her mother, Connie Glaser, her brothers, Douglas and Darren Michels, and her sister, Carrie Koob.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Penny’s life will be held from 4 to 8 P.M., Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Timber Center,  1005 East Platt Street, Maquoketa, Iowa.  A private family burial will be held at the Ozark Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa for the exceptional care given to Penny.

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

Donna K. Miller

Donna K. Miller, 98, of Bethany Home, died Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Bethany Home.

Private family services will be held. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK is assisting the family.

Donna was born on December 26, 1927, in Rock Island, Illinois, daughter of Walter F. and Mildred (Anderson) Lundeen. She graduated in 1946 from West High School in Waterloo, Iowa. She attended the University of Dubuque where she met her future husband, Robert B. Miller. They were married in the Chapel at the University of Dubuque on August 24, 1948.

After college they moved to Peoria for two years then on to Cedar Rapids, Iowa for two years and then returned to Dubuque. She and Bob started Electric Miller Supply Co. in January of 1963 and operated it until July of 1992, at which time they sold it to their daughter and son-in-law, Lynne and Kevin Oyen.

Donna was a past member of Sunshine Circle of Finley Hospital, member of PEO chapter MP, member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, and member of Dubuque Golf and Country Club.

Surviving are her children, Douglas J. Miller and Lynne M. (Kevin) Oyen, all of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Curtis M. (Kimberly) Oyen and Lesley M. (Darrell) Oyen; and four great- grandchildren, Kendyl, Cain, Sayler, and Summer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Miller.

Memorials may be given to Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, Bread of Life Church or Finley Hospital.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff at Bethany Home and to Hospice of Dubuque. Your kind words, comforting presence and thoughtful gestures have meant so much to us and will never be forgotten.

Lyle J. Whalen

Lyle J. Whalen, 84, of Dubuque, died Sunday, June 28, 2026, at his home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 12:15 pm Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

A time of sharing will be at 12:30 pm Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Lyle was born September 28, 1941, in Cresco, IA, the son of Harold Joseph and Mary Alice (Lerdahl) Whalen. On June 1, 1963, he married Ann E. Bradfield in St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dubuque. They had two sons, Russ and Steve, who were part of the family businesses from an early age.

Lyle was self-employed from the teen years on. He began fixing friends’ cars and grew that into Whalen Auto Rebuilders. From there he started a dozen or more enterprises, the larger ones being AIH Body Shop Supply, a car wash, a chrome plating company, Pelican Pier, Island Princess Cruises, and Center City Development. He purchased and developed property on Kerper Blvd. as Whalen Commercial Properties. He sponsored custom car shows, and several sports teams including the Iowa State Champion Whalen Softball Team and many of the players remained lifelong friends. He enjoyed traveling with Ann throughout the fifty states as well as Canada, Mexico, Spain and some tropical islands. He loved boating on the Mississippi River and built his own 50 foot Yacht. They spent many retirement winters at their home in Florida and enjoyed boating on the Gulf. Lyle was fair and generous and offered a helping hand to many throughout his life.

Survivors include his wife, Ann E. Whalen; two sons, Russell Timothy Whalen, and his children, Alexis (Noah Kapparos) Ernzen and Lillian Whalen, and their mother, Melissa Ruh, and Steven Patrick (Kayla) Whalen, and his children, Eryn (Jacob) Wernimont, Mary Sarah Trpkosh, and Summer Ann Whalen; four great-grandchildren, Griffin, Leland, Zachery, and Cody; one sister, Colleen (Charles) Sroka of Dubuque; one sister-in-law, Natalie Himes of Arlington, TX; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Theresa Jotham, two sisters-in-law, Mary Blocklinger and Janis Lewis, and two brothers-in-law, Robert and Duane Bradfield.

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

Lyle’s family would like to thank the staff at No Place Like Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and support.

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

Molly J. Weinschenk

Molly Jean (Frantzen) Weinschenk, 50, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away on June 27, 2026, in Saint Donatus, Iowa.

Visitation for Molly will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Donatus Catholic Church. Additional visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Monday at the church.

Molly was born on January 27, 1976, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Dwaine and Mary (Kenneally) Frantzen. The third of three children, Molly grew up in Saint Donatus, Iowa.

Growing up in a small town brought days outside playing, weekend camping trips near and far, and church/family events throughout the years.  At a young age, Molly showed a propensity to be welcoming to everyone, including every stray animal she could find and drag home.  She was always smiling and when the cameras came out, she was our #1 star!  Her one request on her birthday growing up was a meal of liver and onions, to the dismay of everyone but her dad and god-father.    Later in life she became “the fun” aunt, always picking up her nieces and nephews for a day of laying out in the sun and swimming in the pool!   She loved the sun and her weekly pool excursions.

In 2010, Molly met Ben at Kalmes Store.  He instantly became her rock, her anchor and the love of her life.  Ben and Molly got married August 9, 2014, in East Dubuque.  She loved Ben more than any words could ever truly capture and she always looked forward to her annual dinner at the Log Cabin with Ben to celebrate.  Molly was told at a young age that she would never be able to have children.  Her greatest desire in life was to be a mother and God blessed her in 2019 when she found out she was pregnant with her “miracle baby”.  Billy arrived in 2020 and from the moment he was born, he was the light of her life.  She adored Billy and loved being his mom more than anything in this world.

Molly never missed a family get together whether holiday, special occasion or random family time.  Her favorite Holiday was Halloween. She loved dressing up and going to “Trick or Treat” with her nieces/nephews and Billy.  It was one of the highlights of her year.  She loved spending Sunday afternoons at her parents’ home, as well as, visiting her husband’s family.  Family was so very important to her throughout her life.  She enjoyed playing board games and Euchre during holiday get-togethers and loved having some good-hearted banter over the results of the games.  Spending time with friends/family at cook outs, going out to dinner, or stopping in for some fun at a local bar brought Molly a lot of happiness and joy.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1994.  After High School, she served as a Waitress and Bartender for many years.  She loved being around people, having fun, laughing and socializing.  Her gift of gab earned her the loving nickname “Jaws” from friends and family.  In 2012, she earned her BA in Psychology from Loras College.  After years of working various jobs, she found her true calling as a Paraprofessional at East Dubuque High School.  She absolutely loved her students and found pure joy in seeing them grow, learn and succeed.   She took great pride in helping others and she would do anything for anyone in need.

Molly is survived by her husband, Ben and son, Billy, of East Dubuque, her parents, Mary and Dwaine of St. Donatus; her brother, Joey, of St. Donatus, and her sister, Amy (Ratha) Tath, of Dubuque; parent-in-laws:  Jim (Sheila) Weinschenk, of Bellevue and Kim Weinschenk, of Dubuque; sibling-in-laws, Chad (Lindsay) Weinschenk, of Iowa City and Kurt (Sara) Weinschenk of Bellevue; Nieces and Nephews: Gabby, Jacob, Grace, Kristopher, Cydney, Casey, Shayla, David and Johnny; God-Parents: John Frantzen, of Dubuque and Lynda Kenneally.

She was preceded in death by her beloved dogs, Peanut and Dottie, and her Aunt Lynda Kenneally.

Molly always loved the song “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, so if you hear that song come on the radio or being played in the local bar – feel free to sing along loud and out of tune.  Put your drink in the air and toast one to our beloved Molly.  She was one of the good ones, gone to soon, never forgotten.

The Frantzen and Weinschenk families sincerely appreciate the love, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time.

The family would like to thank the Jackson County Sherriff’s Department, Bellevue Fire Department and their EMTs for their quick response, compassion, and efforts.

David V. Smith

David Vincent Smith, 82, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on June 29, 2026, at home after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

A graveside service and burial will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, IA, on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.

David was born on January 5, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Thomas and Hilda (Altman) Smith. David was blessed with two great loves in his life: his first wife, Elaine, and his longtime partner, Mary Catherine LeGrand.

Together, Dave and Mary owned and operated Oreck Plus, where Dave’s natural warmth and talent as a salesperson made a lasting impression on many. He loved horseshoes, golf, gardening with Mary, and most of all, fishing with his children and grandchildren. To his family, he was simply the world’s greatest grandpa, always ready to laugh, have fun, and make memories with the kids.

He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather who was deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. David was active in his community and especially enjoyed supporting young people through Cub Scouts, Troop 14 of East Dubuque, and Pee Wee League baseball. He was known for his kindness, his warm sense of humor, and his gift for making friends wherever he went.

David is survived by his life partner, Mary; children, Davey Smith, Doug Smith, and Terry (Dave) Macke; stepchildren: Dana (Ben) Moroze , Doug (Deb) LeGrand, and Natasha (Jason) Ricke; 18 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Elaine Smith; his parents, Thomas and Hilda Smith; his grandson, Cody Watson; and six siblings.