Obituaries Archive

Thomas J. Flammang

Thomas J. Flammang, 61, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Monday, November 18, 2024 at his home.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at St. Francis Cemetery Chapel,  in Dyersville.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Tom was born March 2, 1963, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of James and Beverly (Poire) Flammang.  He was a graduate of Western Dubuque High School class of 1981. He achieved a certification from Gemological Institute of America (GIA), in Santa Monica, California in 1984. He graduated from Drake University in 1990 and then pursued his passion and became a successful registered securities broker.

Survivors include his mother, Beverly; sister, Susan (Paul) Oberbroeckling of Dyersville and their children: Miriam (Grant) Henning of Tiffin, Benjamin of Dyersville, and Samuel (Ashley) Oberbroeckling of Farley; great-nephew, Tate Henning of Tiffin.

He was preceded in death by his father, James P. Flammang in 2002; and paternal grandparents, Henry Antionette Flammang; maternal grandparents, Al and Mary Poire; paternal aunt and uncle, Aletha and Ambrose Kramer.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Gladys M. Cogan

Gladys M. (Ricke) Cogan, 89, of Oak Park Place, Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL and Hazel Green, WI, passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Oak Park Place. She was a breast cancer survivor and Alzheimer’s warrior.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Ediberto Jarapa officiating. The burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Family and friends may call before mass from 9:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Gladys was born on September 10, 1935 in East Dubuque, IL, the daughter of Alfred F. and Rosella A. (Hoftender) Ricke. She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1953. On May 29, 1954 she married the man of her dreams, Clarence R. Cogan, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 22, 1991.

Gladys and her husband were owners of C.G.’s Figurines & Crafts and Cogan’s Pumpkin Patch in rural Hazel Green. Additionally, they had businesses in the Dubuque Ice Harbor, were co-owners of Mississippi Fudge Factory and the Ben Franklin Crafts and Framing in Dubuque. She was a founding Gramercy Park board member, active on the East Dubuque Tourism Council, helped with the purchase of the Christmas Lights for the City, was a board member for the National HIA Crafts Association, volunteer at American Cancer Society Discovery Shop and was involved in the Iowa Council on Aging. As a member of St. Mary’s Church, she was an active participant in St. Mary’s Prayer Group.

Gladys was an excellent cook, played the organ, was an accomplished tournament bowler and loved to beat you at Euchre. Her creative side was shown in her businesses and in the classes that she taught over the years in molding and painting figurines, macramé, flower making, candle making, jewelry making, candy making, etc. Her talent shined in her hundreds of scenic canvas paintings done over the years. Her skills in the various craft fields were noted by many craft manufactures who hired her to demonstrate their products at national craft convention shows around the country.

Gladys also was a member of Dubuque Friendship Force and made dozens of trips traveling around the world with many close friends and family. She traveled to countries as close as Ireland, England, Iceland and Germany and as far as Russia, Turkey and China. Her favorite trips were to Australia and New Zealand.

Her family and friends were her greatest joy. She cherished camping with her loved ones on their lot in the Wisconsin Dells, took trips to adventure parks and organized many family celebrations.

Surviving are two daughters, Sherri (Jay) Verhorevoort of Davenport, IA and Mary (Steve) Larson of Traverse City, MI; two sons, Randy (Dawn) Cogan of East Dubuque, IL and Rick (Tammy) Cogan of Kieler, WI; 12 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Mary Lou Ricke of East Dubuque; and her special friend Jim Vandermillen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Rosella Ricke; her husband, Clarence; two brothers, Gary and Roger Ricke; and a grandchild, Anton Verhorevoort.

The family wishes to thank the Oak Park staff and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care. A special thanks to Dr. Kirkendall and his nurse, Kate, for their unwavering support and compassionate care over the years.

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

Cynthia J. Smith

Cynthia Jane Smith, 59, of Racine, WI, lost her short battle with cancer on November 11, 2024 at St. Francis Hospital in Milwaukee, WI.  She was surrounded by the love of family and passed peacefully.

Cynde was born in Rockford, IL on November 24, 1964 and grew up in East Dubuque, IL.  She later moved to the Milwaukee area where she raised her son, Dakota.  Cynde was one-of-a-kind and those who loved her are grateful for the chance.

She is survived by her son, Dakota (Mary Seger) Smith and granddaughter Lillian Jane Smith of Racine, WI, her brother Dan (Gayle) Smith of Schaumburg, IL and her lifelong friend Dan Soat of Dubuque, IA, along with very special friends in the Milwaukee area.

Cynde was preceded in death by her parents, William L. and Betty Jane (Bradley) Smith of East Dubuque, IL.

Family and friends are invited to participate in a graveside service at East Dubuque Cemetery on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 1pm.  A lunch will follow.

Dakota and family would like to thank the incredible staff and nurses of the ICU at St. Francis Hospital for their compassionate care of Cynde.

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

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

Robert C. Pape

Robert Charles Pape, 100, of Dubuque, died Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:00 am on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Robert will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Robert was born July 17, 1924, in Waverly, IA, the son of Henry and Agnes (Selensky) Pape. Robert was drafted into the United States Army in 1943 and served in World War II until he was honorably discharged in 1945. On May 10, 1948, he married Mary Margaret Mollenhoff in Waverly, IA. She preceded him in death on May 16, 2000. Robert worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for over 30 years, retiring as a supervisor.

Robert was a member of Church of the Resurrection where he ushered for many years. He also helped deliver Meals on Wheels for over 10 years. Robert enjoyed dabbling in carpentry in his free time in his home workshop. He was also the Green Bay Packers #1 fan, even making it on the front page of the sports page for an article on the Packers trip to the Superbowl. Robert found his way into Life magazine while he was serving in the Army and was also in several other articles in the Telegraph Herald.

Survivors include his four children, Patti (Roger) Caplan of Columbia, MD; Richard (Diane) Pape of Fort Wayne, IN; Kathleen Pape of Dubuque; and Janet Pape of Strawberry Point, IA; four grandchildren, Megan (York) Franke, Ryan (Beth) Pape, Abby (Dr. John) Jones, and Allison Blaire Caplan; and eight great-grandchildren, Harrison, Uli, Elsa, Oscar, Ellie, Leo, Will, and Emma.

Besides his parents and his wife, Robert was preceded in death by one brother, Kenneth Pape; step-grandchild, Scott Erich Caplan; and one stillborn great-grandchild.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to No Place Like Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their care given to Robert.

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

Sherman M. Burns

Sherman Michael “Mike” Burns, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away unexpectedly from complications following surgery on November 15, 2024, at the age of 67, at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sherman Michael Burns was born April 10, 1957 in Anamosa, Iowa, the son of Sherman E. and the late Betty Lou (Boyd) Burns. He grew up in Maquoketa, Iowa, where he attended Maquoketa High School, graduating in 1975. He studied at the University of Iowa for a year before embarking on a career that would span several decades. On June 17, 1978, Mike married his high school sweetheart, Mary Pat Lechtenberg, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, a union that was blessed with three wonderful children: Erin, Jake, and Adam.

Professionally, Mike was a skilled tool and die maker. His career began at Caterpillar in Mt. Joy, Iowa, and continued at Hoof Products in Maquoketa. He later joined Rockwell Gross in Cedar Rapids before concluding his career at Precision Metal Works in Maquoketa, where he retired in 2022.

Mike was a member at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He was a former Union member with Caterpillar, and at one time was a member of both Duck’s Unlimited and Pheasants Forever.

An avid outdoorsman, Mike found solace and joy in nature. He enjoyed making memories with his family, and was passionate about hunting, gardening, and embarking on outdoor adventures with his loved ones. His pursuits included camping, hunting for mushrooms and ginseng, and the art of maple syrup making. Retirement allowed him to explore new hobbies, and he quickly developed a talent for cooking and baking.  Mike’s kitchen became a place of gathering, where he shared his delicious creations with family and friends.

Mike’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Mary Pat Burns of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Erin McCaulley of Maquoketa, IA, Jake (Jenny) Burns of Maquoketa, IA, and Adam (Ivy) Burns of Solon, IA; his father, Sherman E. Burns of Maquoketa, IA; and his sister, Michelle (Michael French) Burns of Algonquin, IL. His life was further enriched by the laughter and love of his six grandchildren, Ethan, Grace, and Cael McCaulley, Marcus Cox and Jonny Burns, and Boden Burns. He also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Kay Lechtenberg of Maquoketa, IA, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Preceding him in death were his mother, Betty Burns, his infant sister, Becky Sue Burns, and his father-in-law, Dr. Joseph Lechtenberg.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in honor of his mother to the Jackson County Walk to End Alzheimer’s or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Calvin C. Menzemer

Calvin C. Menzemer, 96, of rural Elizabeth, IL, passed away on Friday evening, November 15, 2024 at home.

Per Calvin’s wishes, there will be no visitation. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at the Zion Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Schapville, IL, with Pastor Dottie Morizzo officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Calvin was born on January 31, 1928 at home, the son of Benjamin and Carrie (Gugler) Menzemer.  He was united in marriage to Marilyn J. Koester on January 3, 1952 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Guilford Township.

He and Marilyn farmed until 1970. Calvin then drove a fuel truck for Yardly Oil Company of Hanover, IL and later drove for Saam Oil Company of Scales Mound, IL until his retirement.

Calvin enjoyed baseball and was an avid Giants fan. He loved spending time with his family, playing a good game of euchre and in his earlier years, he enjoyed hunting and trapping.

Surviving is his wife, Marilyn; two children, Duane “Fuzzy” Menzemer of Stockton, IL and Gina (Mike) Nedelcoff of Bettendorf, IA; four grandchildren, Tania Saam, Tyler (Stefanie) Saam, Terra Vellema and Austin (Meredith) Nedelcoff; four great grandchildren, Alana and Joey Saam, Weston and Alec Vellema; and his son-in-law, Keith Saam of Dubuque, IA.

He was preceded in death by daughters, Lana Kay Saam and infant daughter, Carma Sue Menzemer; siblings, Blanchard, Marvin, Kermit, Vivian, Velma, Delores and Beverly.

The Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound, IL. Is assisting the family.

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

Margaret M. Ehlers

Margaret M. Ehlers, age 92, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 16, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, at Stonehill Health Center.  In keeping with her wishes, private family services will be held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Margaret was born on May 27, 1932, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Margaret graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy.  She married Paul Gaherty on November 23, 1955, but he would sadly pass away only 2 years later.  Margaret then found love again and married David Ehlers on August 1, 1959, in Dubuque.  The two would enjoy 64 wonderful years of marriage together before David passed away on October 17, 2023.  Margaret lived in Dubuque her entire life and was employed at the Dubuque Packing Company for 10 years and at the Iron Kettle Deli for 15 years.  She was very devoted to her faith and was a member of St. Mary’s Church until its closing.  Margaret enjoyed sewing and spending time outdoors in nature.  She liked to go fishing and enjoyed watching the deer and birds that visited her yard.  She also enjoyed occasional outings to the casino.  Margaret will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Margaret’s memory include

her children,
Bob (Irene) Ehlers, Dubuque, IA,
Ron Ehlers, St. Catherine, IA,
Mary (Dale) Doty, East Dubuque, IL
and Jody Dean, Dubuque, IA;

7 grandchildren,
Kelly (Gary) Vorous, San Diego, CA,
Brian (Amy) Ehlers, Dubuque, IA,
Ryan (Kelly) Doty, Galena, IL,
Derek (Franchesca) Doty, Galena, IL,
Nicole (Kody) Klein, Dubuque, IA,
Matt (Brianna) Olds, Dubuque, IA
and Perry Olds, of Louisiana;

9 great-grandchildren;

a sister,
Joanne Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Margie Mootz, Dubuque, IA;

and numerous nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law and brothers-in law.

Margaret was preceded in death by her mother, Mary (Delbert) Brittingham; her husbands, Paul Gaherty and David Ehlers; a son, David Ehlers; a son-in-law, Bruce Dean; a sister, Ginny (Merle) Knable; a brother, Cletus Mootz; and a brother–in-law, Tim Mauer.

Margaret’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care.

Greeting cards and memorials in Margaret’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Margaret Ehlers Family.

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

John R. Hirsch

John R. Hirsch, 68, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, November 11th, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. A man known for his wit, wisdom, and craftsmanship.

Born on September 30, 1956, the son of John R. “Jack” and Lorraine (Fransen) Hirsch, he spent his early years learning the value of hard work and perseverance from his parents. He married the love of his life, Joyce Lanser, on October 26, 1973, and together they shared 51 years of marriage, building a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and memories.

John was a “Jack of all trades” and a master of many. He owned and operated Hirsch Home Improvement for over 40 years, using his skills to help countless people. Whether it was a bathroom remodel, a furnace repair, or any project that stumped others, he was the go-to guy for solutions. Known as the “Bathroom King” for his many bathroom remodels.  John’s handiwork was always done with precision and care. But it wasn’t just his craftsmanship that made him special—it was his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Whether working with his hands, or troubleshooting a mechanical issue, John’s demeanor, and knowledge made him someone people could always count on.

John’s life was defined by his motto: “Work smarter, not harder,” which he lived out every day. He passed down this philosophy to his children, grandchildren, and many others he mentored throughout the years. His grandkids were among the lucky ones to learn from his quiet wisdom and hands-on expertise, whether they were working together on a golf cart restoration or tackling a project in his shop.

John was always surrounded by family and friends who cherished his humor, wit, and his unwavering presence. He had a nickname for everyone, and while he wasn’t one to talk much, when he did, his words were either filled with sarcasm or profound wisdom. He was known for his sweet mustache, his love of sweets (especially his nightly treat with a glass of “brown cow”), and his quiet, but powerful way of showing up for the people he loved.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John R. “Jack” Hirsch and Lorraine (Fransen) Hirsch; his sister, Tina (Hirsch) LaRue; his in-laws, Daniel and Jeanette (Anglin) Lanser; and his brother-in-law, Vern Kluesner.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his three children, Jeremy (Shelbie Engler) Hirsch, Jody Hirsch, and Jim (Stacy) Hirsch; and his nine grandchildren: Jordan Hirsch, Logan Hirsch, Jalyn Hirsch, Connor McCarty, Chloe McCarty, Caleb McCarty, Lillian McCarty, Quintin Hirsch, and Ilee Hirsch.

John is also survived by his siblings, Linda (Craig) Bowman, Peggy (Jack) Redmond, Steve (Janet) Hirsch, David (Gina) Hirsch, and the late Tina (Greg) LaRue. He will be dearly missed by his in-laws, Jimmy (Ann) Lanser, Jean Gross, Jackie (Vern) Kluesner, Judy (TC) Christianson, John (Jeanie) Lanser, Joan (Robert) Gansmer, Jane (Dan) Tressel, Jerry (Carla) Lanser, Joe (Beulah Duve) Lanser, Janann Oertel, and Jay (Shelley) Lanser.

A Celebration of Life will be held 3 – 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 24th, 2024, at the Dubuque Shooting Society, 10376 Route 3, Dubuque, IA.

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

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

Fred R. Wuertzer

Fred R. Wuertzer, 88, of Dubuque, died Saturday, November 16, 2024, at his home in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held.

Fred was born on January 14, 1936, in Platteville, WI, the son of Roy and Hazel (VanNatta) Wuertzer. On June 22, 1957, he married Janice Linden at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque.

Fred graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. He served in the United States Navy Reserves from April of 1954 until April of 1962. Fred worked for the Dubuque Community Schools as a painter for 35 years, retiring as a foreman.

Fred was truly a jack of all trades, he was an accomplished woodworker, carpenter, electrician, plumber, and painter. Anything you needed done, he could probably do it for you! He also built and raced his own boats and had a passion for fixing and riding motorcycles.

Survivors include his wife, Janice; three children, Royce Wuertzer, Bruce (Laura) Wuertzer, and Kim Wuertzer all of Dubuque; five grandchildren, Heather, Chris, Jake, Nick, and Jayme; eight great-grandchildren, Hallie, Sophia, Saria, Jude, Graham, Kairei, Thatcher, and Reed; one brother; and one sister.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; twin sons in infancy, Ronald and Donald; and one brother and one sister.

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

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

RoseAnn E. Burkle

RoseAnn E. Burkle, 85 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Saturday, November 16, 2024 at MercyOne Senior Care, in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Friday morning, from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 22, 2024 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

RoseAnn was born March 20, 1939 in Petersburg, Iowa the Daughter of Leo and Marie (Kronlage) Rahe.  She married Gerald Burkle on September 13, 1958 in Petersburg, Iowa.  Together they farmed & raised their family just northeast of Dyersville. She was a proud member of the Catholic Daughters of America. She devoted her life serving faith, family, and friends.

Survivors include her children: Rick (Danna) Burkle of Alamogordo, NM, Randy Burkle of Earlville, Judy (Dan) Gotto of Bankston, Paul Burkle of Bettendorf, Joe (Julie) Burkle of Urbandale, son-in-law: Wayne Naber of Cedar Falls; 15 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; siblings: Richard (Judy) Rahe of Dubuque, Paul (Grace) Rahe and Robert (Rita) Rahe both of Dyersville, Steve (Jean) Rahe of Earlville, Marilee (Dean) Stoline of Gaithersburg, MD, Connie (Paul) Wedewer of Aurora, CO, Charles (Bev) Rahe of Petersburg, Margie Rahe of Iowa City and Dave (Melinda) Rahe of Georgetown, TX; in-laws: Harold (Gladys) Burkle and Doris Hermsen, Lorraine Burkle all of Dyersville, and several nieces, nephews & friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald in 2020, daughter: Jean Naber, daughter-in-law: Deb Burkle; grandchild: Kyle Burkle; great-grandchild: Natalie Kluesner; parents, parents-in-law, Paul and Anna Burkle; siblings: Ronald Rahe, in-laws: Dena Rahe, Charles (Luetta) Burkle, Leon (Theresa) Burkle, Lorraine (Joe) Stephan, George (Thelma) Burkle, Bernard Burkle, Walter (Verna Mae) Burkle, Betty (Jerome Hermsen & John Gassmann), Alvin Hermsen, and several nieces & nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Mercy One Senior Care and Ellen Kennedy Center.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Catherine Bennett

Catherine “Cathy” (Haggstrom) Bennett, age 89, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on November 14, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Cathy’s life, a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at the St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road, with Pastor Nichole Robson officiating.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Cathy’s family.

Cathy was born on May 30, 1935, in Wolbach, NE, a daughter to Aaron and Grace (Crow) Haggstrom.  She was very sports minded during her school age years and enjoyed playing both volleyball and softball.  Cathy was a proud member of the National Honor Society and a graduate of the Wolbach High School, Class of ’52.  Following her graduation, Cathy spent a year teaching in a country school outside of Wolbach before moving to Dubuque in the fall of 1953.  She spent her first six years working in the office at the Dubuque Packing Company.

Cathy eventually met her soul-mate, John “Jack” J. Bennett and the couple was united in marriage in the April of 1959, at St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Dubuque.  Cathy and Jack loved to dance and play golf together and those who knew them best were quite aware that Friday night was always considered dinner date night.  They were blessed with 42 wonderful years together until Jack was sadly called home ahead of her.

Cathy went on to invest over 30 years of her time and talents with the Dubuque Community School District before moving into retirement.  She was blessed to next move effortlessly into a mentoring position at Audubon Elementary for another 14 years with her niece, Charlene Bolgren.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Cathy include,

her son,
Russell (Angela) Bennett, Hoover, AL;

her adored grandchildren,
Ben (Abby) Bennett and Mary Frances (Brannen) Vaughn;

her great-grandchildren,

Teddy Bennett, Birdie Bennett, and Rosie Bennett;

along with her numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Bennett; and her siblings, Ernest, Arthur, Raymond, Dorothy, Lola and Donnie.

Cathy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care over these last few months.  Your love and support has truly been a blessing in our lives when we needed it most.

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

Leroy D. Helmle

Leroy D. “Junior” Helmle, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2024, at the age of 77 at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa. Born on February 22, 1947, in Bellevue, Iowa, Junior was the beloved son of LeRoy H. and Erma (Feller) Helmle. He spent his formative years in the Springbrook area, where he developed a strong work ethic.

Junior’s journey led him to a fulfilling career as a welder at John Deere, where he dedicated 30 years before retiring in 2002. His professional life began after completing his early education, initially working as a farmhand, it was during this time that he met the love of his life, Pamela Watters. The couple united in marriage on November 11, 1967, in Maquoketa, Iowa, and were blessed with three children: Lisa, Doug, and Darin. The family made their home in Maquoketa.

Junior was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, both in Maquoketa. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as his love for horses. In retirement, Junior continued to embody the spirit of service by farming and lending a helping hand to those in need.

Those left to honor his memory include his devoted wife, Pam Helmle of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Lisa (Rod) Jacobs of Springbrook, IA, and Doug (Carrie) Helmle of Davenport, IA. His legacy continues through his three grandchildren, Jenee (Philip) Johnston, Brandon (Andrea) Jacobs, and Evelyn Helmle, as well as his two great-grandchildren, Finnegan LeRoy Johnston, and Darin Sunday Jacobs. Junior’s memory will also be treasured by his siblings, Terry Helmle of Preston, IA, Virgil (Jenale) Helmle of Preston, IA, Wayne Helmle of Preston, IA, Carol Gerlach of Springbrook, IA, Lavonne (Kevin) Nemmers of Springbrook, IA, and Kathy (Michael) Anderson of Preston, IA; sisters-in-law, Mary Helmle of Clinton, IA, and Darlene Helmle of Springbrook, IA; and his numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Darin on May 29, 2001, and his brothers Mark, Allen, and Clyde.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, November 22, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a LeRoy D. “Junior” Helmle memorial fund has been established.

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

Martha J. Kieler

Martha Jean Kieler born in Mason City, Iowa November 8, 1944, passed on November 12, 2024 at The Donnell House of Concordia Hospice, Washington, PA with her daughters Karla, Suzanne, and her “favorite daughter “ Judi Grover by her side.

Martha lived in Dubuque, Iowa most of her life and worked as a nurse. She relocated to Washington, PA to be close to her daughters. She was married to Melvin Kreassig who survives.

Also survived by her daughters Karla Kreassig Glover (Tom Glover) and Suzanne Kreassig (Mike Farrar) 3 grandchildren Andrew Glover(Amie), Derek Glover and Mykayla Farrar, 2 sisters Katharine Winter and Barbara Ern.

Preceded by parents Dr. and Mrs. GF Keohen, 2 sisters Mary Margaret Keohen, Karolyn Keohen, 1 brother Charles Keohen, 2 sons Eric and Michael Kreassig, and 2 grandchildren Myranda and Jakob Farrar.

Melvin J. Beringer

Melvin “Mel” J. Beringer, 97, of Dubuque, formerly of La Motte, died on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

There will be no visitation or services. Burial will be at Holy Rosary Cemetery in La Motte, IA, at a later date.

Mel was born on October 27, 1927, in La Motte, IA, the son of Anthony and Anna (Streff) Beringer. He was a patron of the arts and backer of athletics. Mel was a World War II United States Navy veteran, spending 10 months in Guam in 1945 and 1946.

Survivors include his brother, Raymond (Jeanne) Beringer of Clarinda, IA; and his sister, Sister Jean Beringer, OSF of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents and one sister and brother-in-law, Lillian (Donald) Bechen.

Family requests donations be made to La Motte Area Advancement or the Dubuque Rescue Mission.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their care given to Mel.

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

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

Warren L. Winegar

Warren L. Winegar, 69, of Gravois Mills, Missouri, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed unexpectedly on Sunday, November 10, 2024, near Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.

Warren Lynn Winegar affectionately known by many as “Fuzzy”, “Homer”, and “Fudd” grew up in Maquoketa, where he was born on June 20, 1955, to Guy Douglas and Shirley M. (Moore) Winegar. He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1973, laying the foundation for a life full of dedication and hard work. On August 16, 1980, he married the love of his life, Deb Bennett, in his hometown. Together, they welcomed three wonderful children into the world: Mike, Nick, and Lindsay.

For thirty years, “Fuzzy” dedicated his skills as a machinist to Caterpillar, working first in Mt. Joy, Iowa, and later transferring to Pontiac, Illinois. His commitment to his work was unwavering, and upon his retirement in 2003, he found a new avenue to apply his talents at Crane Farms and Trucking, where he remained until 2018.

He was a member of the Elks Club in Laurie, Missouri. He was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and excitement in hunting and fishing, pursuits that allowed him to appreciate the beauty of nature and the thrill of the chase.

Perhaps one of “Fuzzy’s” greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Family gatherings at the lake were also a highlight for “Fuzzy”. He loved relaxing on the dock, a cold Busch Light in hand, as he watched the parade of big boats and shared stories with friends and family. These moments, filled with laughter and camaraderie, will be remembered fondly by all who were lucky enough to join him.

Those left to honor his memory include his devoted wife, Deb Winegar of Gravois Mills, MO; children, Mike Winegar of Bloomington, IL, Nick (Bettina Bohanan) Winegar of Canton, IL, and Lindsay (Grant) Gelly of Atlantic, IA; 5 grandchildren, Brooklyn (Bobo), Kali, Waylon, Maddox (Mo), and Livy (Fred); his father, Doug Winegar of Maquoketa, IA; brothers, Larry (Diane) Winegar of Jefferson City, MO, Craig (Wendy) Winegar of Maquoketa, IA, and Bob (Audrey) Winegar of Maquoketa, IA; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Randy and Diane Kinyon of Maquoketa, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his mother Shirley on September 22, 2016, and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Melvin and Carol Bennett.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 1 to 4 P.M., Monday, November 18, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with a Time of Sharing at 3:30 P.M.  A celebration of his life will also be held at a later date in Fairbury, Illinois.  A private burial will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Prairie Central Sports Boosters https://prairieil.infinitecampus.org/campus/store/prairie/school-store/1/products or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

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