Obituaries Archive

Charles Ehrlich

Charles “Mark” Ehrlich, 84, of Dubuque, died Friday, February 4, 2022, at his home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, February 11, 2022, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mark will be 10:30 am Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Charles “Mark” Ehrlich was born on July 13, 1937 to Fred and Thelma (Bahl) Ehrlich in Dubuque, IA.

Mark attended Holy Ghost School through eighth grade and left school to help on the family farm.  He joined the National Guard from 1956 through 1965 and completed his service as a Master Sergeant.  He went on to attend Sheet Metal school and became a sheet metal foreman.  He was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 91and former member of the Key West Sportsman’s Club.

Mark single-handedly built his family home.  He dug the foundation with a tractor, cut the lumber from the timber surrounding the family farm, and ran the electricity and plumbing.  He prided himself on only needing to hire a plasterer to complete the interior walls.   Even though Mark had an eighth-grade education, he was a life-long learner.  Mark was a self-taught Gun Smith.  He went on to open a sporting goods store and gun repair shop.  He was well known for his knowledge and talent in repairing complex firearm issues.  Mark was private pilot.  It was an accomplishment he was very proud of.  Mark was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He enjoyed traveling, gardening, his 4:00 pm martini and always had several projects he was working on.  One of his most prized projects was a cannon that he enjoyed setting off over the 4th of July.

Mark married Lois Joan Dague on April 27, 1957 and they celebrated sixty-four years together.

He is survived by Lois, six children, Carol (Joe) Blasen of Dubuque, Chuck (Kim) Ehrlich of Urbandale, Craig (Molly) Ehrlich of Crystal Lake, IL, Steve Ehrlich of Portland, OR, Shelley (Dan) Edgington of Stoughton, WI and Vicki (Ray) Kinney of Dubuque. Ten grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.  Six siblings, Paul (Bernice) Ehrlich, Barbara Gaul, Delores (Cletus) Ambrosy, John (Nancy) Ehrlich, Marilyn (Richard) Borgerding, Vincent Ehrlich, and in-laws Janet Westhoff, Lyle (Neatz) Dague, Richard (Sharon) Dague, Robert Dague, John Dague, Barbara (Jim) Schueller, Stephen Dague, Kathleen Gisel, Monica (Rick) Soppe, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Thomas Ehrlich, Ina Hohmann, Frances Pfeiler, Fred Ehrlich Jr., Ethel Thoma, Ernest Ehrlich, in-law MaDonna McMahon.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

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 Mark’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Russell J. McNabb

Russell J. “Russ” McNabb, 85, of Cedar Rapids, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, February 5, 2022, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House in Hiawatha, Iowa.

A celebration of Russell’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, February 10, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Russell John McNabb was born on February 7, 1936 in Waterloo, Iowa.  His adopted parents were Ernest and Lucille Louise (Schenk) McNabb.  He attended Welton and Delmar Elementary Schools and graduated from Elwood High School.  He then served his country in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957 and was stationed in Alaska.  He married Patricia J. “Patty” Tracy on June 28, 1959 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Two sons, Michael and Marty were born to this union.  “Patty” preceded him in death on September 23, 2002.  He married Carolyn Godard Waite on January 3, 2004 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, “Russ” returned home and worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for three years.  He then worked as a Jackson County surveyor for six years and for the DOT as an inspector for 18 years.  Lastly, he worked as an inspector for Wendling Quarry’s.  Additionally, he had also farmed for many years.

“Russ” was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa and the Delmar Lions Club.  He enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, playing cards and visiting with old friends, learning to dance with his wife Carolyn, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Carolyn Waite McNabb of Cedar Rapids, IA; sons, Michael (Mary Fran) McNabb of Paris, TN, and Marty McNabb of Spirit Lake, IA; step-children, Angela Kuehl of Cedar Rapids, IA, Rich (Paula) Waite of Drakesville, IA, and Christina Beck of Cedar Rapids, IA; 3 grandchildren, Tina, Troy and Madison; 7 step-grandchildren, Christopher, Eric, Allen, Kali, Alaina, Ethan and Evan; 3 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Odessa, and Jaron; and sisters, Ramona Schroeder of Ossian, IA, and Mary Ann (Bob) Wilslef of MO.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Patricia, 2 brothers, and 2 sisters Nancy and Betty.

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

William F. Slaughter

It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing in January of William Frank Slaughter, Galena, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

Bill received his bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Georgetown University in 1964 and spent his entire career working for Henry Crown & Company of Chicago, IL. He was united in marriage to Terri Eaton on August 6, 1983. After his retirement, they moved to the Galena Territory and Bill, an avid golfer, became an early member of the Eagle Ridge Resort golf club, which he continued to enjoy until his death.

He is survived by his sisters, Dr. Martina Slaughter and Leslye Miller; two daughters, Tracy Trelstad and Wendy Slaughter; his son Jeffrey; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martina and Frank Slaughter; and one daughter, Christy Musson.

Cremation rites have been accorded and his ashes will be interred at the Casper Creek Natural Cemetery in Galena, next to his wife, Terri.

Bill was beloved by all, and a celebration of life is planned for spring of 2022 and details will follow.

Donations may be made to Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation at jdcf.org.

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

Herbert L. Gruel

Herbert L. “Herb” Gruel, age 86, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully at 9:25 p.m., on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Herb’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture held at 6:30 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Rev. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Herb was born on January 17, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Herbert and Rose (Plossel) Gruel.

Herb attended Sacred Heart School and joined the U.S. Army when he was 19.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Florence Schneider, on July 18, 1959, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque.  They have been truly blessed with 62 years of marriage and 4 wonderful children.  Herb was a hard worker who was employed with Carr, Adams & Collier before spending 36 years at John Deere Dubuque Works, until his retirement in 1995.  In his free time, Herb enjoyed watching both dirt track and NASCAR racing and going camping with family and friends.  Herb loved to travel.  When the kids were small he would load up the whole family in the Surburban, dogs included, and hit the open road every year.  He made it to 48 of the 50 states, only missing Hawaii and Oregon, a feat he was very proud of.  Herb also took the kids to several amusement parks and would find a nice bench to sit on while patiently waiting for Florence and the kids to get done with the big thrill rides.  Herb’s faith was also a big part of his life.  He was a long time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque.  Family, however, was always the most important part of his life, Herb truly loved spending time with everyone and sharing his stories.  The world was a brighter place because Herb was here.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Herb’s memory include

his wife,
Florence Gruel, East Dubuque, IL;

his 4 children,
Greg (Mary) Gruel, East Dubuque, IL,
Lisa Kuhl, Hazel Green, WI,
Kathy (Les) Harling, Dubuque, IA
and Laurie (Mike Kimball) Groff, Colorado Springs, CO;

12 grandchildren,
Sarah (Mitchell) Taylor, Hunter (Lindsey Jackson) Gruel, Molly (Hunter Duster) Gruel, Zach Kuhl, Connor (Alex) Kuhl, Riley Kuhl, Rachel Kuhl, Cole (Ali) Roepsch, Rose (Donald Bruce) Roepsch, Autumn (Kyle Flickinger) Roepsch, Jordan (Peter) Palomino and Cody (Luke Avetian) Stockert;

16 great-grandchildren;

his in-laws,
Joe (Alene Rohrer) Schneider,
Richard Schneider,
Linda Ernst,
Sue Schneider
and Wanda Schneider;

and several nieces and nephews.

Herbert was preceded in death by his parents; a son-in-law, Ray Kuhl; his siblings, Norma (William) Duenser, Carol Ann (Wayne) Kramer, Robert (Lois) Gruel and Gerald (Irene) Gruel; and his in-laws, Marie Schneider, Marian Schneider, Milt Ernst, Jack Schneider, Ray Schneider and Mary (Joe) Safrens.

Herb’s family would like to thank all of the doctors and nurses who have cared for him, especially Hospice of Dubuque, we appreciate all of you more than words can express.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Herb’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Herb Gruel Family.

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

Merlin P. Wagner

Merlin P. Wagner, 91, of Zwingle, passed away on Friday, February 04, 2022 at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, Iowa

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 9th, 2022 at St. Lawrence Otter Creek with Fr. Dave Ambrosy officiating along with Deacons Loras Weber and Greg Michel. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery where military honors will be accorded by the Bellevue American Legion Post 273 and The Iowa Army National Guard.  A visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 8th, 2022 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road where a scripture vigil service will be at 2:30 p.m.

Merlin was born on December 7, 1930 in Dubuque, son of Mathias and Clara (Gehler) Wagner. He married his soulmate Mary Sweeney on October 20, 1956 at St. Patrick Garryowen Church in Garryowen, Iowa. She preceded him in death on July 18, 2021.

Merlin was a proud American and Army Veteran having served in the Korean Conflict. He was a quiet man, hard worker, and a lifelong farmer who instilled strong values in his children. While farming, he also worked at various factories. Although he was a man of few words, you still felt his love. He enjoyed playing cards and taking trips with his friends. You could easily find him at McDonalds, one of his favorite places. He loved his family, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He took his children’s spouses in and loved them as his own.

Merlin grew up playing baseball for Zwingle’s Prairie League team. He continued his love for sports by coaching Zwingle’s Little League baseball, and Otter Creek’s 4H Basketball. He was a lifelong fan of the Cubs, and cheered them on when they won the World Series.

He is survived by his children Mike (Terri) Wagner of Sycamore, IL, Marty (Dawn) Wagner of Dubuque, Mark (Jan) Wagner of La Motte, Mary Kay (Terry “Louie) Haverland of Dubuque, and Matt (Amy) Wagner of La Motte; grandchildren Trent (Jenny), Jason (Lamia Bharmal), Benjamin (Jessica), Brandon (Hannah Brecht), Brock, Jackson, Alivia, and Gracyn Wagner; great grandchildren Trestan, Kyla, Cameron, Arabella, and Iris; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary (Sweeney) Wagner, sisters Rita Hartman and Aggie Williamson, and brother Dick Wagner.

In lieu of flowers a Merlin Wagner memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Jackson Co. and the Staff at Clover Ridge Place for the wonderful care they gave to Merlin.

Merlin was/is a good, gentle soul. The world could use more Merlins.

Karl W. Rigdon

Karl W. Rigdon, 83, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at The Finley Hospital, Dubuque, IA.

Family and friends may call from 9:00 am-12:00 (Noon) on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a sharing of memories will be at 11:30 a.m. and shared on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page.

Graveside services will be 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday at the East Dubuque Cemetery with Deacon Jamie Schilling officiating. Military honors will be accorded by members of the U. S. Navy Honors team and the East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787.

Karl was born on June 8, 1938 in Guilford Twp. of Jo Daviess County, IL, the son of Bernard O. and Carlene A. (Duerrstein) Rigdon. He was a graduate of the Galena High School, class of 1956.  Karl was united in marriage to Mary A. Schilling on September 22, 1962 in Dubuque, IA.

Karl was a U. S. Navy veteran having served at Moffett Federal Airfield in California and Adak, Alaska in his military service. He was employed at Dubuque John Deere Works as an Electrical Supervisor.  He loved flying, fishing, traveling, and attending the Air Show at Oshkosh, WI yearly. He was also a member of the Dubuque Rifle & Pistol Club.

Surviving is his wife, Mary; two children, Karla Rigdon and William K. (Erin Kennedy) Rigdon both of Hazel Green; two grandchildren, Johannah and Carmen (Michelle) Rigdon; his siblings, Kris (Bonnie) Rigdon, Sarah (John MacDonald) Rigdon, Susan Rigdon, Mary Lou Rigdon, John (Vicki) Rigdon and Tony (Jill) Rigdon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Carleen.

The family wishes to thank the Dickeyville Rescue Squad and the Emergency Room Dept. at Finley Hospital for their care and compassion.

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

Otto W. Berg

Otto William “Bill” Berg, 86,  formerly of Galena, IL, succumb to his battle for life as his family and nursing  staff at Stonehill Care Center were close by, on Monday, January 31, 2022.

Private family burial will be at the East Dubuque Cemetery. The Miller Funeral Home is serving the family.

He was married to Georgia E. Berg for 59 years, both of whom enjoyed that time together building many memories in their careers, trips, and homes.

Bill spent 30 plus years in Finance and Brokerage positions in Chicago and suburban locations. He will be missed for contributions in organizations.  Bill found peace in the Holy Trinity. For reflections, Jeremiah 29:11, Deuteronomy 33:15, Psalm 16:11.

DuWayne L. Arp

DuWayne L. Arp, 77, of Durango, Iowa, passed away Saturday, February 5, 2022, at Luther Manor Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for DuWayne will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, February 10, 2022, at the Reiff funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa.  Visitation will also be held after 10 a.m. at the funeral home on Friday.  Anyone unable to attend may send cards to the Reiff Funeral Home, Attn: DuWayne Arp family, P.O. Box 1, Peosta, Iowa, 52068.

Services for DuWayne will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 11, 2022, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa with Pastor Paul Amlin presiding. Burial will be held at a later date in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Pleasant Valley, Iowa.

DuWayne was born September 8, 1944, in Davenport, Iowa, son of Laverne J. and Verna A. (Claussen) Arp.  He graduated from the Bettendorf High School in Bettendorf, Iowa.  On August 3, 1968, he was united in marriage to Sandra Moffit in LeClaire, Iowa.

He was a lifetime farmer in Dubuque County.  He also worked at the former Dyersville Sales Barn, the Cascade and Maquoketa Sale barns and drove a milk truck for Bergfeld Trucking for 20 years.

He was a member of the Army National Guard, the Farm Bureau, and the Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Asbury, Iowa.  He was very active in the local 4-H groups, sharing his knowledge and talents.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Arp of Durango, IA; one daughter, Amy (Paul) Wachter of Hainesville, IL; one granddaughter, Mallory Wachter.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Evalea McBride; one brother, Melvin Arp.

Memorials for DuWayne may be given to the Centralia-Peosta Fire Department or to the Hope Lodge in Iowa City for Cancer Patients and their families.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolence sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Gary G. Hancock

Gary “Poncho” Gene Hancock, 71, of Epworth, Iowa passed away peacefully on Friday, February 4, 2022, at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Gary will be held from 2 to 8 p.m., on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial for Gary is at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.   With Deacon Nick Elliott assisting.  Lectors are Owen Boige and Margie Bradley.  Placing of the pall will be done by Bonnie Hancock, Toby Hancock, Kelly Wink and Meg Boge.  Giftbearers are Madalyn Bergfeld-Hancock and Emma Wink.  Burial to be held at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Casketbearers for Gary will be Dale Mueller, Bob Mueller, Greg Featherston, Tony Maahs, Kenny Hosch, Calvin Hancock and Jim Gulyash.

Gary was born on February 2, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Calvin “Blackie” and Margaret V. (Cooley) Hancock.  He was a 1969 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa, where he excelled in getting in trouble with Buck. He eagerly enlisted in the United States Army, and was proud to be a Vietnam Vet.  It was love at first sight when he met Bonnie Jean Decker.  The couple was united in marriage on August 14, 1971, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa.

Gary bled green for 40 years, employed first as a truck driver, and then in the office at Flynn Ready Mix.  He was a favorite of many contractors because he could back that truck into any spot.

Gary was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, Iowa. He was also a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Epworth American Legion John White Post #650 and the Leaky Lodge.

Gary was a lifelong New York Yankees, Indianapolis Colts and John Wayne fan.  He played a terrific first base for the Pussycats softball team and the Epworth Orioles baseball team.  He was a past coach of the Dubuque County Legion team and past volunteer for Hospice of Dubuque.

Gary was grateful to be married to his wife of 50 years, Bonnie Hancock of Epworth; and father of three great kids, Toby (Anne) Hancock of Riverside, Kelly (Robin) Wink of Bernard, and Meg (Terry “Bubba”) Boge of Dyersville; and he loved, loved his four grandchildren, Calvin (Megan Hogan) Hancock, Madalyn Bergfeld-Hancock, Emma Wink, and Owen Boge; and his great grand-daughter, Raelynn Grace.  He also had 3 “wanna be” daughters, Donna Gulyash, Kim Simon, and Erin Shanahan.

Gary is also survived by in-laws, Coleen Hancock of Epworth, Debi O’Brien of Dubuque, Pearl (David) Shanahan, Margie (Ron “Zip”) Gassman, Jay (Marlene) Decker, and Lynn Decker all of Bernard; and his daily telephone call buddy, Uncle Jack (Aunt Gayle) Hancock.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Thomas Hancock on January 31, 2016; Father and Mother-in-law, Earl J. and Rose Decker; Step mother-in-law, Carmelene Decker; three brothers-in-law, David Decker, Lawrence M. “Larry” Decker, and Steve Bradley; one niece, Rachel Decker; and one nephew, Gabe Glasman.

The family would like to give a special Thank you to the Epworth Fire & EMS Department, MercyOne Emergency and Cardiac Unit (Especially Nurses Heather and Treslyn) for all the care and support that they gave to Gary.

In lieu of flowers a Gary Hancock memorial fund has been established.

Anyone unable to attend may send memorials to Reiff Funeral Home Attn: Gary “Poncho” Hancock Family, PO Box 99, Farley, Iowa, 52046.

Video tribute may be viewed and Online condolences may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Ardys L. Bowers

Ardys L. (Clifton) Bowers, 94 of Bethany Home died Saturday, February 5, 2022.

Lisa H. Benson

Lisa H. Benson, age 46, of Dubuque, passed away at 3:04 a.m., on Thursday, February 3, 2022, at home surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Lisa’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Lisa was born on August 2, 1975, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Allen and Julia (Wilson) Benson.

Lisa grew up in Dubuque where she attended school at Hempstead High School and graduated from Central High School.  After school, she worked at various businesses in Dubuque before moving to Colorado.  Eventually, Lisa would return home to Dubuque.  In her free time, Lisa loved spending time at the bowling alley perfecting her game as well as trying her luck at Bingo and playing cards.  She also liked to spend quality time with her family and her friends.  She will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Lisa’s memory include

her sons,
Tristian Benson and Ashton aka “Jayden” Benson;

her parents,
Allen and Julia Benson;

her brothers,
David (Vickie) Benson and Doug (Stephanie) Benson;

and several aunts, uncles, great-aunts and great-uncles.

“Grandma and Grandpa, it’s your sweetie baby, I’m coming home.”

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

Joseph J. Polkinghorn

Joseph J. “Joe” Polkinghorn, 76, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

A military graveside service and burial celebrating Joe’s life will be held at a later date at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Joseph James Polkinghorn Jr. was born on October 31, 1945 in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, to Joseph James and Marie Josephine (Mitchell) Polkinghorn Sr.  He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War.  Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and had done various other jobs throughout his life.  He enjoyed anything to do with motors, being outdoors, hanging out with family and friends and his pups Peanut and Molly.

Those left to honor his life include his children, Adam (Nicole) Clark of Maquoketa, IA, Jamie Clark of Maquoketa, IA, and Ricky Clark of Oxford Junction, IA; 9 grandchildren; sisters, Shirley (Terrill) Saunders of Spragueville, IA, Joyce Donath of Dubuque, IA, Millie (Paul) Widel of Maquoketa, IA, Brenda (Everett) Bowling of Maquoketa, IA, Mary Krabbenhoft of Fairbank, IA, and Susan Bystol of Maquoketa, IA; and brothers, Clarence Polkinghorn of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Delbert Polkinghorn of Preston, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Joseph and Lester, and a sister Barbara.

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

Verna L. Bird

Verna L. Bird, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully, Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at ManorCare with family by her side.

Per her wishes, there will be a private family service. A web-cast of the service will be available to view on Verna’s obituary at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Verna was born on May 19, 1934 in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Christian and Coletta (Henkels) Meyers. She married Eugene J. Bird Sr. on September 24, 1955 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA.

They were blessed with three children. Verna was devoted to her family and faith. She worked at Unique Balance, then St. Regis Paper Co., and lastly at Georgia Pacific where she retired in 1995. Verna enjoyed working outside with her flowers and tending to her red raspberry patch but hated the thorns. She put the needs of others above her own. She was a fantastic cook and hostess who took pride in making sure her guests had plenty of great food and a nice hot cup of coffee. Verna was an avid reader and enjoyed the adventures of finding those First Editions. Verna was a class act who always had a kind ear to listen and tremendous strength and made the best of every situation. Verna was extremely selfless and the ideal example of strength and grace.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children; Carol (Marty) Petitgout of East, Dubuque, IL, Eugene (Joy) Bird Jr. of Waukee, Iowa, and Marilyn (Edwin Barber) Bird of Scottsdale, AZ, her grandchildren; Zach Bird of Chicago, Abby (Zach) Berger of Iowa City, Sophia Bird of Waukee, IA, and Stephany and Natalie Stueck, and her sister-in-law; Ruth Bird of Guttenberg, IA.

She was preceded in death by her husband Eugene Bird Sr, her parents, and her sister Germaine.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kourtney, Haley, Nichole, Diane, and Kelli. They provided such compassionate care that will always be treasured. A thank you to all staff members at Manor Care. We appreciate the comfort, care, and kindness during her final days.

Geraldine L. Hopkins

Geraldine L. “Jeri” (Taft) Hopkins, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:45 p.m., on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Jeri’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at The Church of the Nazarene, 1195 Prysi Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 5, 2022, with Pastor Leah Barker officiating.  Burial will be in Oakview Cemetery in Albia, Iowa.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Jeri was born on March 25, 1945, in Hocking Hill, Iowa, daughter of Orvel and Lelah (Kincaid) Taft.

Jeri attended school at Albia Community High School and completed her GED in Ottumwa in 1984.  She was united in marriage to Ronald G. Hopkins on March 11, 1963, at the Open Bible Church in Albia. They were blessed with only 16 years together before Ronald sadly passed away on December 23, 1979.  She began her working career at Smith Laundry in Albia, and went on to become a CNA with Oakwood Care Center and Albia Care Center.  After moving to Dubuque, Jeri went to work with Ennoble Manor and lastly with Bethany Home until her retirement.  When Jeri wasn’t working, she spent time in the kitchen creating beautiful wedding cakes and birthday cakes.  She liked crafting, watching Disney movies and rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs.  She also enjoyed going to garage sales and had an extensive elephant collection.  When the kids were young she was very involved as a Cub Scout Leader.  Jeri also loved to travel and spend time with her family.  Her faith was undeniable.  She helped to establish the Church of God’s Holiness in Albia, and was a faithful member of the Church of the Nazarene here in Dubuque.  Jeri was a kind woman who was very generous with her time and talents.  She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she has touched throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Jeri’s memory include

her 5 children,
Robert Taft, Knoxville, IA,
Ronald Hopkins Jr., Lebannon, MO,
Alan (Kathy Whitten) Hopkins, Des Moines, IA,
Lucinda (Jim) Tuthill, Dubuque, IA
and Jeff (Karen) Hopkins, Dubuque, IA;

her 8 grandchildren,
Angela (Willie), Joseph, Joshua (Amanda), Tabitha (Jen), Cindy (Matt), Denise (Dave), T.J., James, Donnie and all of her “adopted grandchildren”;

her 24 great-grandchildren;

a great great-grandson;

her siblings,
George (Robin) Taft, Portland, OR,
Mary (Doug) Turnbull, Charlotte, TN
and Judy (Paul) Billings, Newton, IA;

a former daughter-in-law,
Nancy See, Centerville, IA;

and a “special sister”,
Cindy Ryans, California.

Jeri was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ronald Hopkins; 3 great-grandchildren, Katie Tuthill, Ashley Monohon and Wesley Monohon; and 2 daughters-in-law, Carol Taft and Karen Ballalatak.

Jeri’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of UnityPoint Health for all of their kindness and all of the compassionate care they provided for Jeri.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Jeri’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jeri Hopkins Family.

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

Bernice M. Pottebaum

Bernice “Bea” M. Pottebaum, 95, passed into the Lord’s arms on January 30, 2022, at Luther Manor.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Monday February 7, 2022, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road Dubuque, Iowa 52003 where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m. Family and friends may also gather 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at the church until time of mass. Per the family request, please wear face coverings when attending the visitation and funeral.

Bea was born on August 28, 1926, to Joseph and Frances (Meisenburg) Thoma in St. Donatus, Iowa. She got her GED from NITI.

On June 1, 1949, she was wed to Louis Pottebaum at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa and together they had three children. She was happily married for almost 40 years until Louie passed away on February 23, 1989.

She worked at Timmerman’s Supper Club, Roshek’s, Armstrong’s and Dubuque Greyhound Park. She also volunteered at Mercy Hospital and was also a member of the Rosary Society.

Bea enjoyed sewing for her family in her younger years. She participated in daily mass and walked at the Cathedral when she was able. Bea loved to go on vacation to Devil’s Lake, WI, and she did many trips with Tri State Travel; she also enjoyed their Saturday night get togethers.  She was proud to come from a family of 12, and she enjoyed having company. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Bernice is survived by her daughters Jean (Gerald) Roling and Judy (Mark) Nemmers; son Jerry Pottebaum; grandchildren Chris (Jen) Roling, Lynn (Adam) Davidshofer, and Angie (Kevin) Kluesner; granddaughter-in-law Michele Nemmers; nine great grandchildren; siblings Francis (Mary) Thoma, Richard Thoma, Pat Klaas, Don (Bertha) Thoma; sister-in-law Betsy Thoma; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Louis; her parents; two grandsons Brian Roling and Tim Nemmers; siblings William (Edna) Thoma, Marie (Alfred) Barth, Arnold (Phyllis) Thoma, Joseph Thoma, Victor (Viola) Thoma, Ernest (Alice) Thoma, and Lawrence Thoma; and in-laws Ethel Thoma and Ed Klaas.

Memorials may be given to Hospice, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

Thank you to Luther Manor for taking care of mom for the last 4 1/2 years, and Hospice for the last week of her life.