Obituaries Archive

Marty Lampe

Marty Lampe, 70, died on September 1, surrounded by loving family and his good friend Dave Ludovissy.

He is preceded in death by his father Maurice and youngest brother John.  Marty is survived by his mother, Dorothy (Heinricy), and brothers David, Jim, and Bob.

Marty was a well-known athlete in Dubuque.  He was inducted into the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame and the Dubuque Bowling Association Hall of Fame.  He had competed in 35 consecutive national bowling championships and built many lasting friendships as a player with the Sherrill baseball team, Dave’s Point After Fastpitch, and Lake’s Lounge Slow Pitch. Marty also enjoyed competing on the golf course and participated in the annual Rock Golf Invitational in Dubuque.

Marty attended St. Columbkille Grade School and Wahlert High School; he earned his BA at Loras College with a major in accounting.  He worked at the University of Dubuque for many years as manager of the bookstore and retired from the Hodge Company.  Marty’s career was cut short by complications due to Alzheimer’s Disease.

During the last few years, a caring group of 7 friends responded to the need for Marty to be accompanied by someone on his daily walks.  One of these friends would arrive every day and go walking with him. This group was coordinated by Marty’s long time friend Dave Ludovissy with the help of his wife Ann.  The walking buddies included Mike Spates, Jim Ferring, Lonnie Link, Jerry Roling, Jerry Schissel, and Jim Davis.

Marty was known for his quiet demeanor, his kindness, and his smile as well as his athletic skills.  He lived his final years at Sunset Park Place and the family expresses their deep gratitude to the staff for the compassionate care they provided. The family thanks the staff at Mercy One Medical and Hospice of Dubuque for their care of Marty in his last days.  The family also thanks the walking buddies whose dedication of their time provided Marty with daily respite from Alzheimer’s Disease.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Miracle Baseball League of Dubuque in memory of Marty Lampe. Mail contributions to Jason Adams, Treasurer, Miracle League of Dubuque, 6076 Amber Ridge Drive, Asbury, Iowa 52002.

A private service is planned with the assistance of Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory of Dubuque.

Carol S. Kline

Carol Sue Kline, 78, of Osceola, IA, passed away on Saturday, September 3, 2022, in Dubuque, Iowa.  Carol was born on April 14, 1944, in Millard, MO, the daughter of Denzel and Dena (Flynn) Chadwick.

Carol is survived by her loving family, son Kevin Kline and his wife Sharlene, grandchildren Austin (Megan) Kline and McKenzie Kline, great grandchildren River & Reign Kline, all of Dubuque.  Daughter Tina Roy and her husband Tony of Nashville, TN, and granddaughter Helen Roy of Arizona.  Her sister-in-law, Diane Chadwick, of Florida.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dena Rime and Denzel Chadwick, her stepfather, Rollo Rime, and her brother Jack Chadwick.

There will be a private memorial service for the family at a later date.  Carol will be buried with her parents at La Plata Cemetery in La Plata, Missouri under the direction of Travis Funeral Chapel.

The family would like to thank the Hospice of Dubuque staff, especially Melissa, Nichole, and Kelli.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Carol’s name to Hospice of Dubuque or Every Step Hospice in Osceola, IA. They were such a great help to the entire family.

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

Sally Jo DeMuth

Sally Jo DeMuth, age 66, of Savage, MN, formerly of Dubuque, passed away at 5:00 p.m., on Friday, September 2, 2022, at the University of Minnesota Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.  To celebrate Sally’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, September 15, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Eulogy and sharing will be at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, at Behr Funeral Home, with Susan Swift officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Sally was born on October 21, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Rita (Shaffer) and Anthony Pfab.

Sally attended school in Dubuque.  She had 2 wonderful children and worked at Kmart for several years.  She managed the Little Ceasar’s and went on to become the Human Resources manager at the Burnsville store.  It was at Kmart that she would meet the love of her life, Marty Sommer, in 1995, and the two would spend the rest of their days together.  In 2015, she left Kmart in Burnsville and went to work for Old Navy until her retirement in 2020.  Sally’s love language was definitely shopping for presents and cute outfits for everyone in her life.  If she came across something that reminded her of you, or that she thought you would enjoy, you could bet it was coming home with her.  In her free time, Sally also enjoyed shooting pool and doing word and number puzzles.  She was a very social person and made friends wherever she went.  Sally was deeply loved and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her.

Those left to cherish Sally’s memory include

her children,
Corrie (Geneva Ginter) DeMuth, Dubuque, IA
and Scott (Robin) DeMuth, Peosta, IA;

her grandchildren,
Natalie and Nina DeMuth;

her long time companion,
Marty Sommer, Savage, MN;

and her siblings,
Donna (Dave) Doerr, Bellevue, IA,
Dollie (Greg) Kohnen, Dubuque, IA
and Joe (Lisa) Pfab, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Sally was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Pfab; her father, Anthony Pfab; her “second mother”, Alice Voels; and a sister Patricia “Patty” Pfab.

Sally’s family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff of the University of Minnesota Hospital, for their kindness and the compassionate care they provided for Sally.  Also a heartfelt thanks to Marty for always caring for mom and supporting her every step of the way along her journey.

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

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

Carol Sproule Bussan

Carol Sproule Bussan, 91, formerly of Galena, IL passed away peacefully at St. Mary Monastery in Rock Island, IL with her daughters by her side on Monday, September 5, one day before her 92nd birthday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 2 p.m. Saturday, September 10, 2022, in the Chapel of St. Mary Monastery, Rock Island, IL. Visitation will be prior to Mass from 1 – 2 pm. A reception will be held following the Mass. The Mass will be open to the public, but seating will be limited. Those planning to attend services at the Monastery are respectfully requested to be vaccinated. A committal service will be held in St. Michaels Cemetery, Galena on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at 11:30 AM followed by a Celebration of Life at Frank O’Dowd’s Irish Pub, Galena.  Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, Milan, and Furlong Funeral Home, Galena are assisting the family.

Carol was born on September 6, 1930 and raised in Galena. She was the youngest of eleven children of Cyrus Sr. and Della Byrne Sproule. She attended St. Michaels Grade School, Galena High School, graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, and attended Bayless Business College. She married Melvin “Tink” Bussan on November 27, 1947, at St. Michael’s, Galena and he predeceased her in 1988.  During the 1950s Carol and Tink operated the Bowl-Mor Lanes (upstairs in what is now the Lemfco building) in Galena. From 1961 to 1970 she was Chairwoman of the Jo Daviess County Democratic Central Committee and in 1968 she a delegate to the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. She was hired by the Jo Daviess County Housing Authority and was Executive Director for 23 years. She loved working with the elderly and helping families meet their housing needs. She was instrumental in building housing in Galena, Hanover, Elizabeth, and Warren. Her greatest disappointment as Director was her failure to convince HUD of the need for a not-for-profit daycare center. During her years as Director, she also served as President of the Northern Illinois Council of Housing Authorities, Vice-President of the Illinois Association of Housing Authorities, and Director of the Assisted Housing Risk Management Association of Illinois and Iowa. Her job as Director did not stop her from being involved in community and church projects. She loved Galena and was a lifelong member of St. Michaels Parish. Over the years she was a eucharistic minister, served on the committee to combine the CCD programs with St. Mary’s, led the first Diocesan Stewardship Appeal at St. Michael’s that served as a model for the Rockford Diocese and served on the parish council for 15 years. She was a past member of the Galena Historical Society and the Galena Women’s Club. She was one of the organizers of the Galena Hospital Auxiliary and served on the Board of Directors. She also served as secretary to the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Merit Commission and was on the Board of the Jane Addams Mental Health Center. After her retirement, she worked part-time as a secretary for the ARC board for a few years.

Carol is survived by her daughters, Kathy and Sr. Bobbi, OSB, a sister-in-law, Nadane Bussan, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brothers, Cyrus (Mill) Sproule, Kenny (Vesta) Sproule, Earl (Helen) Sproule, Ed Sproule, Babe (Dolores) Sproule, Bill (Norma) Sproule, her sisters, Kate (Tony) Leary, Dorothy (Irvin) Childs, Helene (Vale) Allen, and Elaine (Joe) Hasken.

She was also preceded in death by her husband’s parents Andrew and Julia Bussan and his siblings and spouses: Marita (Karl) Metzger, Camilla (Bob) Stovall, Lenora (Dick) Donahue, Flossie (Dale) Zeal, Pete (Lynette) Bussan, Ike (Ollie) Bussan, and Roy Bussan.

We are very grateful to The Sisters of St. Benedict at St. Mary Monastery for opening their home to mom where she lived in their health care unit for the past two years. Memorials may be made to St Michael’s Parish, 227 South Bench Street, Galena, IL 61036. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Timothy C. Horman

Timothy C. Horman, 70 of Galena, IL passed away Friday, September 2, 2022, at Bethany Home, Dubuque, IA. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public services. The cremated remains will be buried in the family lot in Mitchell, SD.  The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born July 19, 1952, in Mitchell, SD the son of John and Maxine Horman. He received a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in art education and a minor in piano from Dakota State College, Madison, SD, and went on to receive his master’s degree in interior design at the University of Nebraska. Tim was the set designer for Alderman in Dallas, TX. He was a senior visual coordinator of merchandising, display, and in-store design for the furniture division of Dayton, Hudson, and Marshall Fields in Minneapolis, Chicago, and Detroit. In 1998 he designed a complete Wizard of Oz bedroom set for the Neiman Marcus Christmas Catalog. Tim’s love of design and furniture or anything home related was what made Tim a top designer in his field. His humor, generosity, and talent were his gift. And his love of animals was his priority. Tim was the co-owner of Max Mitchell LLC, along with his twin brother Tom. Together they had seven main street stores.

He is survived by his twin, Thomas I. Horman, J. Steven Horman, Kathy D. (Ray) Horman-Martin, and chosen sister, Susan Riedel, two nephews, and one niece.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and all his beloved pets throughout his years.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the entire staff of Bethany Home, doctors and nursing staff at medical associates, and his many friends for their kind words. In Tim’s memory donations may be sent to “His Helping Hands”, 226 S. High Street, Galena, IL, 61036 or any animal rescue organization in Tim’s memory. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Sr. Rebecca Rosemeyer, OSF

Sister Rebecca (Adele) Rosemeyer, OSF. Age 100, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at 8:35 p.m. Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at Clare House.

The Rite of Final Committal will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 8, 2022, followed by burial at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site. A Memorial Mass will be held at the Clare House Chapel at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 12, 2022. Visitors will be required to wear masks. Livestream of the services can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans.

Sister Rebecca was born on January 19, 1922, in Thorp, WI, the daughter of Raymond and Ida (Budden) Rosemeyer.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis September 8, 1941 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1947.  Sister received her master’s degree in English from Loyola University, Chicago, IL.  She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Remsen; Pocahontas; Briar Cliff College, Sioux City; and in Dubuque at Immaculate Conception Academy, Wahlert High School, and Loras College. She served as Coordinator of Collette Center, Chapel Coordinator, and Administrative Secretary at Mount St. Francis Center in Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her sister, Marcelle Podvin; sister-in-law Dorothy Newbys; nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Norma (John) Gamrath; brothers Raymond (Ester and Vivian) Rosemeyer, Charles (Betty Jean) Rosemeyer, Robert (Myrt) Rosemeyer, Justin (Mary Ann) Rosemeyer, and Eugene Rosemeyer; and a brother-in-law, Bill Podvin.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Doris L. Phillips

Doris L. Phillips, 89 of Galena, IL passed away Friday, September 2, 2022, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Friends may gather from 5 to 7 PM, Monday, September 12, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Cremation rites have been accorded.

She was born on February 28, 1933, in Galena the daughter of Arthur and Loretta (Herman) Simon. Doris was united in marriage to Deloss L. Phillips on April 20, 1952, at St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Galena and he preceded her in death on October 4, 2018. She worked for the Galena School District for many years until her retirement. Doris enjoyed camping, traveling, and baking.

She is survived by her children, Cindy (Mike) Muehleip, Steve, Dave (Kathy), Marc (Missy), her grandchildren, Serafin (Benilda), Nathan (Ashley), Mitchell (Carmen), Jaron, Jamie (Tyler) Macke, Hunter Muehleip, and Logan Phillips, two step-grandchildren, Marissa and Joebert Pedroza, great-grandchildren, Drew, Kaylee, Gelice, Gerald, Gennifer, Harper, Halli, Tanner, a sister, Beverly (George) Goodno, and a sister-in-law, Ruth Langas.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, and a son, Gary.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Karen Hughes, Jessica Studtmann, and Hospice of Dubuque. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Rosetta E. Henneberry

Rosetta E. “Rose” Henneberry, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:46 a.m., on Friday, September 2, 2022, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To celebrate Rose’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Rose was born on June 3, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Francis and Katherine Hanley and would be adopted by Elmer and Katherine (Pfeiffer) Jackson.

Rose was married to Maynard Wilhelm and together they had a son, Greg.  She would later marry William Henneberry at the Army Reserve Center in Dubuque on August 6, 1983.  Sadly William would pass away on January 5, 1999.  Rose was always a devoted wife and mother who took care of her family and home.  In her free time she enjoyed watching episodes of MASH on TV or her favorite movie, Shirley Temple.  She liked to listen to classic 60’s and 70’s music with Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn being her go to singers.  Rose also liked to spend time with her family playing Skip-Bo and Uno.  She had a kind heart and will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Rose’s memory include

her son,
Greg Wilhelm, Dubuque, IA;

her step-son,
Steve (Shirley) Wilhelm, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Lee Jackson,
Patrick Jackson,
David Jackson,
Cindy Jackson,
Gary Jackson
and Richard Jackson, all of Pennsylvania;

her brother-in-law,
Ray Pfeiffer, Dubuque, IA;

her nephew,
Vern Miller, Dubuque, IA;

her godson,
Jeff Lester, Dubuque, IA;

and her cousin,
Sharon (Dennis) Carner, Dubuque, IA.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Maynard Wilhelm; her 2nd husband, William Henneberry; and her siblings, Lonnie Jackson, Sharon Pfeiffer and Debbie Jackson.

Rose’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of MercyOne Dubuque, Dubuque Specialty Care, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the outstanding care they have provided for Rose.

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

Robert G. O’Connell

Robert Gerald O’Connell, 93, of Dubuque, died on Sunday, September 4, 2022 surrounded by the love of his family.

Bob was born on October 11, 1928 in Waterloo, Iowa to John and Eleanor (Farrell) O’Connell.

In 1946, Bob graduated from Our Lady of Victory Academy, then attended Loras College before enlisting in the United States Air Force.  Bob served proudly from March 1948-March 1952, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Bob was selected to serve as a gunnery specialist/tow target operator in the Cadillac squadron in the newly formed Aircraft Gunnery school at the Las Vegas Air Force Base (now Nellis Air Force Base).  This school eventually became the United States Air Force Weapons School dedicated to the training of elite Air Force pilots and specialist support personnel.

In 1954, Bob graduated from the Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) and began his long teaching career at Loras Academy.  In 1959, he was hired as one of the original lay faculty at the new Wahlert High School in Dubuque, Iowa.

Over the years at Wahlert, Bob taught physics, earth science, electronics and chemistry and coached track until he retired in May 1991.

Bob was a lifelong learner who enjoyed many summers enrolled in graduate science field studies throughout the United States.

In retirement, besides golfing and fishing, Bob was elected as a District Assistant Commissioner to the Dubuque Soil and Water Conservation District.  In 2016, his outstanding work was recognized with the Ruth Wagner Award.

Bob and Charleen (Reilly) O’Connell were married in August 1954 and lived most of their married life on Coates Street, raising six children.  In later years, Bob and Charleen enjoyed traveling east and west to visit children and grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by Charleen (2014), his parents, and a brother, Donald J. O’Connell.

He is survived by his children, Timothy (Stephanie) O’Connell, Peggy (Steve) Curran, Christopher O’Connell, Stephen O’Connell (Patrick Paulauski), Kathleen (Joe) Blodgett and Michael (Patty) O’Connell and his brother John E. O’Connell.

Bob was the proud and loving grandfather of 19 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West, Iowa.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory (https://www.leonardfuneralhome.com) is handling arrangements.

Many thanks to the compassionate care given to Bob by the wonderful staff at Grandview Healthcare Center and UnityPoint Hospice. Donations in Bob’s name to these organizations or a veteran’s charity of your choice are appreciated.

Grandview Healthcare Center, 800 5th St. SE, Oelwein, IA 50662

UnityPoint Health, Allen Foundation, 1825 Logan Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50703-1999

Geri E. Ryan

Geri E . Ryan (former married name Feyen), 88, of Dubuque, died Thursday, August 4, 2022, knowing she was loved and surrounded by family, while bravely fighting dementia.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, September 16, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A private family service will be held Saturday, September 17th, 2022, at the funeral home with burial in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Geri was born on January 8, 1934, in Dubuque, six of Dr. Emmett and Jenny (Cerny) Ryan’s seven children.  She graduated valedictorian from The Academy of Visitation in 1952 and attended Clarke College on a scholarship for music (piano).

Prior to her former marriage of 32 years to William D. Feyen, and becoming a mother of seven, she was a legal secretary and later in life continued her secretarial career at various organizations.  She was proud of her organizational and business management skills.

She loved playing the piano, enjoyed gardening, lunches with friends, caring for her grandchildren, working on various Democratic campaigns and later in life, traveling.  She was very close to her six Ryan family siblings and their children.

Geri was a very likeable woman and will be remembered for her pleasing, and loving personality.  She inherited what the family called “the happy Irish gene” as she was a positive presence and brought “the fun” to any occasion.  She often said she was a fighter, a rebel and raised her children to be fearless.  She will be sadly missed by her large family and friends.

Those left behind to cherish her memories are her seven children, nineteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren: John Feyen and his children David (Carrie) Luensmann, Samantha (Makai Kim) and Ann Marie;  Laura (Larry) Herrig and their sons, Jeremy and Joshua; Julie Feyen-Gottschalk and her children Eric and Adam and Ashley (Paul) Saari; Lisa Feyen and her sons Ryan and Evan Andrews and Dylan Juergens; Stephanie Feyen and her children Brandon (Rebecca de la Garza), Samantha Ondrashek (Jake Burkart) and Nick; Sarah Feyen-Petersen and her son Emmett; Suzanne (John) Bailey and their children Jacob, Madeline (Bradley) Spangenberg, Elizabeth and Daniel; great-grandchildren, Marcus and Joey Luensmann, Makaio Kim, Landon and Elliana Gottschalk,  Adaleigh Grote, Isabelle and Amelia Feyen and Annalise Burkart; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, her former husband, two nephews and two baby grandsons.

Geri’s family greatly appreciate and give thanks to the staff at Stonehill Communities and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care of Geri.  Their patience, sincerity and kind hearts truly made a difference making Geri’s final days comfortable.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be directed to Stonehill Communities.

Christine J. Dowell

Christine Joy Dowell, 59, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2022, at home, surrounded by her family after fighting liver disease for 2 ½ years.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, September 10, 2022, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, where a visitation will be held from 11:30 until the time of services. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Christine was born on July 12, 1963, in Akron, Ohio, to Patricia and Ralph Wise. She was raised in Copley, Ohio and graduated from Copley High School.

Christine worked various jobs, with her most recent as payroll manager at Foodliner Trucking. She was forced to retire due to her disability.

She met Mark Dowell, and they were married on September 5, 2003. She loved to travel, especially to South Padre Island, where she enjoyed sitting on the beach. Mark and Christine also made many trips to Las Vegas to visit her daughter and explore the various sites. She had many pets which she loved, with her little Shih Tzu, Maggie being her most beloved. She was heartbroken the day Maggie died. Christine and Mark had great plans to travel around the country to discover new places but were unable due to her illness.

Christine is survived by her husband, Mark Dowell; daughters, Michelle Harris (Melissa), of Henderson, Nevada, and Johnna Foutty (Colt) of Jesup, Iowa; stepchildren, Stephany Dean (Ken), Zachary Dowell (Sara), and Thomas Dowell (Stephanie), all of Dubuque; 8 grandchildren, Dylan, Brandyn, Izzy, Nathan, Bentley, Zoey, Carter and Landen; brother, Ralph; a niece, Marci; nephew, Greg; brother-in-law, Lewis (Bonnie) Dowell, Darla (Tim) Chappell, and Michael (Fran) Dowell.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Wise and Patricia Ramsay; sister, Martha, who died at birth; and sisters, Dolly Wise and Terryl Baker.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Special thank you to the wonderful nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Charlotte E. DeClue Happ

Charlotte Elaine DeClue Happ entered the comfort of the Lord peacefully Friday, September 2 at home in Asbury, Iowa, following a long and brave fight with cancer and other illnesses. She died as she always preferred to live – surrounded by loving family.

She had three devoted children from a first marriage, and gained two more when she married Robert Earl Happ, “her Bob,” on October 10, 1986. Charlotte shared often that she had always wanted five children, and that’s what God had given her.

Charlotte was born on December 3, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Louis Earl and Frances Enid (Leeborg) DeClue. Her family affectionately called her “Charlaine” in childhood. The family moved to East Gary (now Lake Station), Indiana in 1951, to Sacramento, California in 1961, and back to Chicago in 1962, where she graduated from Lake View High School in 1964. She later lived in Aurora, Illinois, before moving to East Dubuque, Illinois, and later Dubuque, Iowa. She then lived for more than 30 years in Peosta, Iowa, before relocating to Asbury for her final years. Charlotte was a dedicated school and scouts volunteer when her children were young, and later worked for many years as a legal secretary and office administrator.

The aspects of life Charlotte treasured most were the same that she herself poured into the world in abundance – faith, family, and friendship. Her Christian faith was absolute and immovable. She spent time in prayer daily and left behind a well-worn bible with thousands of handwritten notes in the margins. She thanked God continually for every blessing she enjoyed, and it was her deep faith in the redemptive power of Christ’s love that sustained and strengthened her in her most difficult times. When anyone in her wide circle of loved ones faced adversity, Charlotte always reached out to tell them she was praying for them and prayed with them right then if she could. She truly centered herself around her faith, and by so doing was able to spread God’s love to others wherever she went.

Charlotte cherished her large and ever-growing family and could never have enough family time to satisfy her. Her laugh was loud and full and a little bit silly and could often be heard over the noise and conversation of family gatherings. When friends of hers met family members for the first time, they already felt deeply acquainted from hearing Charlotte’s stories. Charlotte loved to brag about the qualities and achievements of her children and grandchildren. And when others would jokingly imply that her assessments were biased, she would happily reply, “Well, facts are facts.”

Charlotte’s ability to make and keep friends was legendary. She never met a stranger, only friends she had not yet had a chance to know. Her curiosity about others knew no bounds. A visitor to her home would receive the warmest and most sincere of hugs upon leaving. And a brief, random conversation on a far-away vacation could result in a lifelong pen pal. When Charlotte welcomed a new person into her life, which was often, she did so with her full measure of love and affection. And for those who were blessed to be in her circle for decades, her devoted friendship was a constant source of joy and comfort.

Creative inspirations were everywhere for Charlotte, and she delighted in her many hobbies and interests. An expert sewer and quilter who was always working on several projects, her intricate quilts and other creations decorated homes across the country. She made clothing. She painted landscapes and wrote short stories. She sang and played piano. And she loved collecting beautiful objects to decorate her home. She had a lifelong affection for western and Native-American art and loved the color of turquoise. She adored bluegrass music, and when she had the chance to meet her musical hero Bill Monroe, successfully persuaded him to sing “Blue Moon of Kentucky” with her on the spot.

Surviving are her husband, Robert Happ of Asbury, IA; children Marcya (Grant) Grudzina of Asbury, IA, Kimberly (Tom) Kublie of Shertz, TX, John (Kym) Lang of Crestview, FL, Michael (Leah) Happ of Evanston, IL, and James (Summer) Lang of North Liberty, IA; grandchildren Joshua (Liz) Kublie, AJ Kublie, Madyson Lang (Joshua Kennedy), Duncan Grudzina, Sophia Grudzina, Juliana Grudzina, Brynn Grudzina, Devin Anderson, Peyton Anderson, and Rose Happ; great-grandchildren Hunter Kublie, Amelia Kublie, Owen Kublie, and Paisley Wells; aunt June Eck of Maricopa, AZ: and sister Donna Galvan of Sacramento, CA.

Charlotte’s final words, spoken clearly long after she had been able to say any others, were “I love my family.”

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, September 8 at 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church, 2143 Judson Dr, Dubuque, Iowa, followed by an open house reception starting at 3:00 pm in the Luther Manor Communities Clubhouse at 5284 Grand Meadows Drive, Asbury, Iowa. Attendees are invited to wear a splash of aqua or teal, Charlotte’s favorite colors.  Charlotte will be interred at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery with a private family service.

Flower arrangements and mementos are welcome. In addition, donations in Charlotte’s honor may be made to the Charlotte Happ Memorial at the following organizations close to her heart:

Quilts of Valor, c/o Cindy Billmeyer
18836 Breezy Ridge Rd.
Dubuque, IA 52002

First Baptist Church of Dubuque
2123 Judson Dr.
Dubuque, IA 52001

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

Live-streaming of Charlotte’s service will be available through the on-line obituary at www.hskfhcares.com

Gloria E. Kaufman

Gloria E. Kaufman, 94, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 5, 2022, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, September 12, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at 2:30 P.M., Monday, at Clinton Lawn Cemetery, Clinton, Iowa.

Gloria Elaine Cornish was born on April 20, 1928 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Sidney and Erma (Kroigaard) Cornish.  She grew up in Clinton County and graduated from Welton High School in 1946.  She married Laverne Kaufman on June 4, 1947 in rural Grand Mound, Iowa.  Three children were born from this union, Terry, Linda, and Cindy.  Laverne preceded her in death on April 9, 1998, and on July 23, 2005 she married Clifford Daniels in Nashua, Iowa.  Clifford died on November 30, 2007.

Gloria had worked for the Maquoketa Community Schools in the Kitchen Department as well as in the Housekeeping Department, cleaning buses and the administration building.

Gloria loved Bingo, enjoyed playing cards and was involved in card clubs.  She also enjoyed going south in the winter with Laverne and later Clifford.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Terry (Janna) Kaufman of Maquoketa, IA, Linda (Dan) Gilmore of Maquoketa, IA, and Cindy (Jeremy) Hythecker of Eldridge, IA; 5 grandchildren, Michelle (Mike) Azevedo, Kurt (Lana) Kaufman, Katie (Blake) Pauls, Kristin (Al) Klimesh, and Dillon Daniels; and 7 great-grandchildren, Alex, Chase, Cooper, Grace, Abbie, Sylvia, and Clark.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Laverne and her husband Clifford, and a sister JoAnn (Owen) Hute.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gloria E. Kaufman memorial fund has been established.

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

Monty P. White

Monty Peter “Mont” White, 71, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022, at his home. He was born on January 30, 1951, in Worthington, the son of Pete and Bernadette (McNally) White. Monty was raised and educated in the Dyersville area, graduating in 1969.  Monty served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1974 until he was honorably discharged.

Monty was united in marriage to Rosemary Kirby. Three children were born to this union. The couple later divorced. Monty retired from John Deere after 30 years. He enjoyed farming, reading, traveling, his family and Milwaukee’s Best.

Survivors include his three children, Lisa (Scott) Stevens of North Liberty, Amanda (Cody) Leigh of Tiffin, and Doug (Angie) White of Dubuque; six grandchildren; his three brothers, Mike (Gina) White, Terry (Joyce) White and K.C. White; his three sisters, Phyllis Spahn, Dixie (Duey) Kerper and Judy (John) Jurgiel; and his significant other, Joyce Peters.

Monty was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Pete (Mary T.) White and his brother-in-law, Jared Spahn.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com

Celebration of Life: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Rod and Cal’s in Strawberry Point, Iowa.

Private Family Services: St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington, Iowa

Kathaleen M. Seippel

On Friday, September 2nd, 2022, Kathaleen Marie Seippel (mama-san), loving and stubborn mother, grandmother, and friend, has decided to give us the finger and move on to bigger and better things at the ripe old age of 54.

A Celebration of Cathie’s life will be held on Saturday, September 17th, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Walnut Pavillion, at Swiss Valley park. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Born October 9th, 1967, to Peter J. Seippel and Patricia A. Kammerude in Fort Rucker, Alabama, she was as fiery as the red hair on her head with a laugh you could hear across the room. She received her Paralegal degree from NICC in 2004 and was proud that she graduated the same year as her daughter graduated high school. Her kids were her everything. Even when she wanted to poke them in the eye.

Cathie lived for her family and friends. She was regularly seen behind the bar of a favorite local watering-hole, serving up tasty cocktails and mixers. She was a Jack of all Trades having worked in the Food and Beverage industry most of her life, but also learned a great deal of lessons in life along the way to earning her degree and successfully raising her three children Samantha, Nick, and Brandon.

Cathie was an avid animal lover, especially her most two recent boys, Murphy and Wheezy. You’d be hard pressed to find any other dog as spoiled and loved as those two. She also loved attending concerts and music festivals with her children and their friends, being the “cool mom” of the group. She had more kids than she knew what to do with – not all biologically of course, but she loved them all as if they were her own and would do anything to help or protect them.  Everyone knew mom threatened to poke every single one of them in the eye if they stepped out of line or she would promise to show up to the next school function / event in the most embarrassing outfit imaginable – and should would have too!

Cathie was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Kammerude, and her son Brandon Fischer.

She is survived by her children, Samantha Seippel (her favorite) and Nicholas Fischer (Ariel Fischer, Kaylie, Melanie, Lacie Drake), father, Peter J. Seippel (Cathy), her siblings Steve, John, and Christine, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many, many wonderful friends and family members.

A very special thank you to Jen (the first surrogate daughter), mom’s best friends Michelle & Jack, Betsy, Mary, Mike, and Robyn: you made mom’s last few weeks on this earth some of the best she could ever remember and we are eternally grateful for your kindness, generosity and love. There is a special place for people like you.

Cheers to you, Mama-san, and here is to your next great adventure. Give Brandon, Grandma, Jilly, Debbie, and Paul some hell from all of us down here.

In lieu of flowers, a Kathaleen Seippel memorial fund has been created at Dupaco Community Credit Union.  However, if you’re a flower sending kind of person, Leonard Funeral Home on Rockdale Road is where you can send them: Cathie’s favorites were always white and yellow daisies.