Obituaries Archive

Richard L. Ostert

Richard L. “Dick” Ostert, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Sunday morning, February 1, 2026, at his home in rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Born on April 3, 1935, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Louis and Beulah (Dague) Ostert, Dick’s life was a testament to his dedication to his family, work, and community.

Growing up in Fulton and Dubuque, Dick was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1952. He embarked on a life of love and commitment when he married Betty Jane Buck on April 25, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa. Together, they welcomed four children into the world: Gary, Sherry, Terry, and Tina. After the passing of his beloved Betty in 2004, Dick was fortunate to find love once more and married Susan Schoenig Behrens Engelkins on July 23, 2005, blending their families and hearts.

Dick dedicated over 50 years to farming, nurturing the land with the same care he showed his family. His career at John Deere Dubuque spanned 30 years, where he spent 17 years as a devoted full-time union representative and 13 as a skilled pipe fitter before retiring on August 31, 1990. His commitment to his colleagues and the labor movement was unwavering, and his contributions to the workplace were deeply valued.

His service extended beyond his professional life. Dick proudly served in the National Guard for nine years, demonstrating his love for his country. His civic engagement was evident through his roles as the Maquoketa Township Trustee, Democratic chairman, and a longstanding member of the Jackson County Condemnation Board.

A man of faith, Dick was an active member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. He had served as Chairman and Vice Chairman, and his involvement in various committees over the years helped to strengthen the church community.

Dick’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Susan Ostert of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Sherry (Larry) Keeney of Elwood, IA, Terry (Cathy) Ostert of Garwin, IA, and Tina (Dion) Brundage of Maquoketa, IA; step-children, Kurt (Cara) Behrens of Norwalk, IA, and Joshua Engelkins of Dubuque, IA; 10 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Dina (Larry) Pickel of Dickeyville, WI, and Judy (Larry) Marcue of Hazel Green, WI, along with many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, his first wife Betty, son Gary, brothers Robert and Jim, and sisters Verdina, Joan, Lois, and Patty.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, February 5, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 11 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

Gerald G. Yarolem

Gerald G. “Zeke” Yarolem Sr. 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Friday morning, January 30, 2026, at home.

Gerald Gene Yarolem Sr was born on May 24, 1938, in rural Canton, Iowa, to Charles and Blanche Alberta (Bickford) Yarolem. Gerald grew up in the Canton area and was a graduate of Onslow High School. His early years were spent working for local farmers including Vince Franzen and Sam Caven, where he developed a lifelong love for the land and agriculture. On November 6, 1971, he married the love of his life, Janice Adele Brady, in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Throughout his career, Gerald was known for his dedication and skill. He worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa before finding his calling as a Lineman Operator for IBEW Local #55, a position he held for over two decades until his retirement.

Gerald’s faith was an integral part of his life. He was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Maquoketa.  An avid outdoorsman, Gerald found solace in nature. He was happiest when he was fishing, caring for his horses, or enjoying the company of his cats. His massive garden was a source of pride and joy, and he delighted in sharing its bounty with family and friends. Above all, Gerald cherished the time spent with his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Janice Yarolem of Maquoketa, IA; children, Sandy King of Maquoketa, IA, J.R. Yarolem of Fulton, IL, Bruce (Kathy) Tracy of Maquoketa, IA, Cathy (Dwayne) Rupp of Maquoketa, IA, and Regina (Clint) Hoeger of Maquoketa, IA; sister, Marlene Hess of Eldon, MO; 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Charles Jr., Kenny, Rex, Wayne, and Bob, sisters Marietta Graves, Jane Holland, Phyllis Edwards and one infant sister, son Gary King, and grandchildren J.T. Yarolem and Todd Tracy.

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, February 9, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gerald G. “Zeke” Yarolem Sr memorial fund has been established.

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

Jane C. Barthell

Jane C. Barthell was born Dorothy Jane Chambers to Harry E. and Grace (Dinzy) Chambers in Dubuque, Iowa on August 1, 1929. She passed away on February 1, 2026, at Gables Care Center of Boutwell’s Landing, Oak Park Heights, MN and in the care of Lakeview Hospice, Stillwater, MN.

Jane grew up in the Congregational Church and graduated from Dubuque High School in 1947. She attended the University of Dubuque where she majored in music and Christian education. She was the concertmaster in the university orchestra. She also sang in the university choir where she met Tom Barthell. He sat behind her and tickled her ear to get her attention.

Tom and Jane were married on August 26, 1951, after Jane graduated. They lived in a tiny travel trailer on the campus of the university while Tom finished his degree. In 1952 they moved to International Falls, MN.

Jane and Tom had four children, all born in International Falls. Jane joined the staff of the Koochiching County Family Services Department after the youngest entered kindergarten. In her work she traveled each week to the Ojibwa community at Nett Lake making strong connections with the people and families she worked with. She took her family to Wild Rice Festivals and pow-wows at Nett Lake, allowing them to become acquainted with the people and community.

Tom and Jane moved to northern Michigan for a few years, returning in 1978 when Jane accepted the position of Family Services Supervisor at Koochiching County, where she worked until her retirement. She served on the Kootaska Board for eight years and was board chair for two years. She continued as a guardian ad litem, working with the district court for several years after her retirement.

Jane played her violin in the Keweenaw Symphony while in Michigan and became part of the Rainy Lake Community Orchestra when they returned to the Falls. She was the grant writer for the annual RLCO String Camp for many years. She also played with the Borderland Community Orchestra, traveling each week to Emo, Onterio with her friend, Carol Belanger, for rehearsals. She played solos at Faith United Church on occasion and played for area presentations of Handel’s Messiah.

Jane was very active in the community over her lifetime. She was a member of Tuesday Musicale and several bridge clubs. Volunteer roles included tax preparer for the AARP Tax-Aide project for many years, Medicare navigator, MN/MS Connection of UCC in the Mississippi Delta Habitat for Humanity project for 14 years, choir director at Faith United for 31 years, as well as other roles within the church. She also played an active role in the efforts to raise funds to establish the Backus Community Center.

Jane was preceded in death by her husband Thomas R. Barthell, who passed away on September 20, 2025; her parents, brother and sister-in-law Robert and Phyllis Chambers; sister and brother-in-law, Ann and Richard Kelly; son-in-law, Bruce Kelly; daughter-in-law, Patsy Barthell; and nephew, Jon Kelly.

Jane is survived by children, Linda (Mike) Orsted, Peggy Kelly, Fred Barthell, and Ann (Rick) Sigsby; grandchildren, Liz (Barrett) O’Donnell, Ingrid Orsted, Jen Barthell, Jon (Jennifer) Barthell; great-grandchildren, Emma O’Donnell and Harlow Barthell; and nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Faith United Church of Christ at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with a luncheon following.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

A graveside service will be held for both Tom and Jane Barthell on Saturday, May 23^rd at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Lansing, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers Jane requested memorial donations be made to Faith United Church of Christ, the Rainy Lake Community Orchestra c/o Backus, or Habitat for Humanity.

Condolences may be left on www.greenlarsen.com

Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.

Edward R. Bildstein

Edward R. Bildstein, 80, of Petersburg, Iowa, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a military service will commence at 7 p.m.

Graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Petersburg where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137.

Ed was born September 9, 1945, in Petersburg, Iowa, son of John and Marie (Wessels) Bildstein.  He married Ruth Spoden on June 9, 1971, in Worthington, Iowa.  Together they farmed and raised their children in Petersburg. Ed enjoyed hunting in his free time.

Survivors include his children, four daughters: Crissy Bildstein of New Vienna, Tammy (Dan) LeGrand of Dyersville, Lori (Matt) Digmann of Worthington, Jill Wolf of Dyersville, Iowa; two sons: Chad (Brenda) Bildstein of Earlville and Todd (Jessica) Bildstein of Dyersville; grandchildren: Jordan Bildstein, Brady, Sydney, Kennedy, and Trent Arens, McKenzie (Christian) Michels, Justice Bildstein, Riley LeGrand, Haley (Isaac) Kramer, Colin and Carly Digmann; great grandchildren: Easton Michels, Oliver and Kaden Bildstein; siblings: Betty Recker, Jim Bildstein, Eileen (Dan) Their, Joyce (Arnie) Bries; in-laws: Neil (Sue) Spoden, and Bill (Mary Ellen) Spoden.

He was preceded in death by wife, Ruth in 2004; parents; parents-in-law, Karl and Florence (Kremer) Spoden; in-laws: Gene Recker and Doris Bildstein; and a special friend, Iris Mcelmeel in 2020.

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

Lucille L. Maiers

Lucille L. Maiers, 104, of Dyersville, IA and formerly of Holy Cross, IA passed away Friday, January 30, 2026, at MercyOne Senior Care.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, IA. Funeral Services to follow at 11 a.m. with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Lucille was born on April 7, 1921, daughter of Leo and Catherine (Link) Brimeyer of Balltown, Iowa. She married Clarence G. Maiers on September 19, 1940, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Balltown, Iowa. They were married for 63 years, until his death in 2004.

Lucille was a member of the Holy Cross Catholic Church, the Altar and Rosary Society and the Catholic Order of Foresters. She was Sacristan of Holy Cross Church for many years. She loved to garden, play cards, bowl, volunteer and crochet. Many of her Afghans were donated to school and town auctions. Lucille was the “bookkeeper” for her husband and son’s business, Maiers Auto, until 2022. She lived in Holy Cross her entire adult life, until moving to Ellen Kennedy Living Center in the fall of 2022.

She is survived by her five children: Judy (Roger) Swenson of Janesville, WI, Janet Kramer of East Dubuque, IL, Patrick (Deb) Maiers of Holy Cross, IA, Michael (Ann) Maiers of Holy Cross, IA and Susan (Tom) Edwards of Sussex, WI; grandchildren: Jim (Laura) Swenson, Jon (Jamie) Swenson, Rob Kramer, Russ (Meggan) Kramer, Carri (Greg) Brecht, Nick (Kayla) Maiers, Chris (Ashley) Maiers, Ben (Amanda) Maiers, Nathan (Samantha) Edwards, Hannah (Steve) Biel; 26 great-grandchildren; 4 step great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild; and sisters-in-law: Helen Klaas and Rosemary Nolan.

Lucille is preceded in death by her husband, Clarence; parents; grandson, Peter Swenson; great-granddaughter, Jenna Kramer; son-in-law, Bob Kramer; siblings: Mildred Schroeder, Celestine Brimeyer, Leon Brimeyer and infant Clarence Brimeyer; in-laws: Gilbert Maiers, Matt and Mary Theisen, Mabel Maiers, Bernice Brimeyer, Marie Brimeyer, Leonard Schroeder, Emmett Maiers, Roger Klaas and William Nolan.

Think of Lucille as living in the hearts of those she touched, for nothing loved is ever lost.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holy Cross Catholic Church maintenance fund or the Holy Cross/North Buena Vista Volunteer Fire & Ambulance Department.

The family would like to thank the staff at Ellen Kennedy Living Center, MercyOne Senior Care, and Hospice for all their kindness and loving care they gave to Lucille.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Holy Cross and Monticello is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneral.com.

Marilyn Richard

Marilyn Richard, 61, of Dubuque, died Sunday, January 25, 2026, at her home in Dubuque.

Marilyn was born on October 31, 1964, in Waterloo, IA, and adopted as an infant by Merlyn and Kathryn (Folkerd) Richard, who lived outside of Greene, Iowa, on a charming little farm. Merlyn and Kathryn adored Marilyn, and Marilyn remained a loving and devoted daughter and only child. Her parents took her on many trips to Canada, where they enjoyed camping and fishing together.

When she was young, she found her way to services at St. John’s United Methodist Church in Nashua. It was there that she heard the gospel and became a Christian. Faith in Jesus Christ would ultimately be a defining trait of Marilyn. She would quietly respond when asked how she was doing by saying, “Blessed and kept.” The small house where she lived in Dubuque was affectionately called “God’s 5-room flat.”

She graduated from Hamilton Business College, where she made lifelong friends who referred to one another as the “909ers,” after the street number of the house where they lived. Marilyn was an alumnus of Emmaus University where she also spent 25 years serving in accounts payable, where her diligence and faithfulness were well known.

Marilyn was quiet, but witty. To enjoy her clever sense of humor, one had to be patient and listen closely. She was thoughtful in everything she did and deeply ministered to and loved others.

She was a devoted member of Hope Church and an active participant in Celebrate Recovery, a grief support group. Marilyn was blessed with a rich and beautiful singing voice and enjoyed praising God in song at church and in friends’ houses.

Marilyn K. Richard-blessed and kept in life, and now forever kept by the Living God.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials may be given to Hope Church,11893 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52001.

Visitation 9:30 am – 10:15 am Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at Hope Church.
Service at 10:30 am Saturday, February 7, 2026, also at Hope Church with Pastor Ross Harrison officiating. Lunch will be immediately following at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel 2843 JFK Road, Dubuque. Burial will be at Dumont Cemetery in Dumont, Iowa, on a later date.

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 Marilyn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mary E. Carr

Mary Elizabeth “Mary Beth” Reiter Carr, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on January 30, 2026, at home after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

Friends and family may visit from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Deacon Dan Kurt officiating.

Mary Beth was born on December 23, 1948, the daughter of Fred and Mary (Trumm) Reiter. She graduated from Aquin High School in Cascade, Iowa, in 1966. Mary worked for 29 years as a travel agent for AAA in Cedar Rapids. She not only traveled the world but also enjoyed and embraced the many different cultures she encountered.

After meeting her future husband, Paul Carr, Mary Beth relocated to Houston, where they were married on January 27, 1996. Together, they were active leaders in the Houston Heights community. In 2004, Mary Beth was honored with the Houston Heights Association Marcella Perry Award for outstanding community service.

She is survived by her husband, Paul, of Dubuque; her stepdaughter, Susan (Paul) Pedersen of Magnolia, Texas; her siblings, Linda Mason; Jeff (Dianne) Reiter of Cascade; Joyce (Rich) Noonan of Otter Creek; Peg (Jim Flynn) Reiter of Lakewood Ranch, Florida; Jake (Bev) Reiter of Cascade; and Lavonne (John) Noel of Dubuque; along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Chris Reiter; and her brother-in-law, Douglas Mason.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of Dubuque in honor of Mary Beth, as requested by her husband, Paul.

Vicki J. Carnicle

Vicki J. Carnicle, 71 of Dubuque died Saturday, January 24, 2026. The will be no public services.

Vicki was born March 31, 1954, daughter of Dean and Lylas (Amling) Carnicle.

She graduated from Dubuque Wahlert and Clarke College (now Clarke University).

She worked as a nurse at Mercy Medical Center before her retirement. As she was always babysitting, she took care of a great number of kids in her lifetime.

Vicki loved reading and could be found most days with her nose in a book. She also enjoyed sewing and volunteered with the Dubuque Senior Colorguard , helping create costumes and flags during the years her niece was on the team.

She is survived by her step-father, Harold Hines of Dubuque; two sisters, Toni (Dale) Linden of Dubuque and Kim Hines of Dubuque; and a niece Samantha (Ryan) Lammers of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Elaine K. Mitchell

Elaine Kay Mitchell, 84, of Peosta, died Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Elaine will be at 10:30 am Monday, February 2, 2026, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. Burial will be at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Elaine was born September 27, 1941, in Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Dr. Harold C.L. and Dagmar Marie (Larsen) Swanson. On September 6, 1969, she married William Charles Mitchell in Minneapolis, MN.

She graduated from Minneapolis South High School in 1959. She attended the University of Minnesota where she earned a Bachelors degree in Diatetics, and later a Masters in Public Health.

Elaine was a Dietitian in the Dialysis Center, Diabetic Center, Midwest Medical Center, and UnityPoint Finley Hospital. She retired for the fifth, and final, time at the age of 80.

Elaine was deeply committed to service and community. She was actively involved in Mission Support and Lutheran World Relief, where she helped assemble school kits for children, and she knitted dozens of prayer shawls. Her dedication extended to Girl Scouts, serving on the Habitat for Humanity Board, organized a Kidney Foundation conference, and assisting with the monthly newsletter for the dialysis unit. Elaine also enjoyed camping, gardening, quilting, and traveling with her husband. Together, they visited every U.S. state, all Canadian provinces, except the Northwest Territories, much of South America, excluding Argentina and Chile, and every continent except Asia and Antarctica.

Survivors include her Husband, William; three children, David Mitchell of Dubuque, Thomas (Alexa) Mitchell of Dubuque, and Eryn (Jason) Dietzenbach of Ames, IA; eight grandchildren, Robert J. Kohl, Grant, Kaya, Zander, and Drew Dietzenbach, Winston, Elaina, and Theo Mitchell; brother, Roger (Joan) Swanson of Richfield, MN; sister-in-law, Janet (Robert) Gundershaug of St. Michael, MN; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Robert (Nancy) Swanson.

Elaine’s family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Finley Hospital, Hospice of Dubuque, Pastor Matthew Agee, and their Church family at St. Peter Lutheran for their care and support.

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 Elaine’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Patrick W. Powers

Patrick W. “Guzz” Powers, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. He was born on June 10, 1955, in Dubuque, IA, to Eldon J. and Maxine  F. (Timmerman) Powers.

After graduating  from Dubuque Senior High School in 1973 and spending some time in Dubuque, Pat moved to Colorado.  He returned to Dubuque and graduated from NICC in their computer science program in 1991. He worked in the technology field since his graduation and most recently as a Systems Architect for Working Solutions.

Pat was a lifelong biker sometimes taking off alone for days at a time.  He has traveled 48 states, made countless trips and lifelong friends along the way.  He helped organize and led the Veteran’s Freedom Center Benefit ride until its end last year. Everyone was proud to be called a friend of Guzz.  He touched so many and will be missed by all.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his sister, Diane (John) Goerdt, and his brother, Ron (Cathy) Powers; several nieces and nephews: John (Amy) Goerdt, Jason (Meggan) Goerdt, Adam (Ally) Goerdt, Michelle (Brock) Broshous, Tim (Amanda) Powers, Cheryl (Sean) Paradiso, Dan (Molly) Powers and 20 great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Pat’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Dubuque Eagles Club, 1175 Century Drive from 12:00-5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Veterans Freedom Center or Hospice of Dubuque.

Pat’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Dubuque Fire Department, and Dr. Bashey of Medical Associates.

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

Every ride has an end, but the memories never fade.

Carolyn J. Backes

Carolyn Jean Backes, 69, of Macon, MO, formerly of Dubuque, died peacefully Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at her home with her family by her side.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory, followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Carolyn will be 10:30 am Friday, February 6, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Father David Ambrosy as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Carolyn was born November 26, 1956, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Alfred John and Loretta Jeanette Stecher Behnke. On May 21, 1977, she married Jerry Raymond Backes in Dubuque.

She was a 1975 graduate of Hempstead High School.

She worked as a Controller for auto dealerships, including over 30+ years at Riley Auto in Dubuque.

She was devoted to her family and most of all, to her children and grandchildren, finding great joy in making memories and bringing happiness to their lives. She treasured time fishing with her husband and had a generous heart, always enjoying doing things for others. Each holiday, she gathered her many nieces and nephews for crafts, creating cherished traditions. A woman of faith, she was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Altar Society in Macon.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry; two sons, Jeremy (Kristina) Backes of Marion, and Jon (Shandalle) Backes of Cedar Rapids; five grandchildren Elayna, Blakely, Lilah, Ryker, and Richard; her mother, Loretta of Durango; 11 siblings, Marilyn (Dan) Kammiller of Durango, Robert (LeeAnn) Behnke of Dubuque, Thomas (Brenda Ries) Behnke of Durango, Mark (Bev) Behnke of Sherrill, Rosann (Vern) Welter of Sherrill, Jean (Keith) Oberfoell of Dubuque, Kathy (Jeff) Schmitt of Sherrill, Karen (John) Schmitt of Sherrill, Ken (Cindy) Behnke of Durango, James (Barb) Behnke of Holy Cross, and Jerry (Margie) Behnke of Epworth; her father- and mother-in-law, Ray and Elaine Backes of Dubuque; her brother- and sister-in-laws, Randy (Donna) Backes, Bob (Toni) Backes, and Lisa Fails; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father and one grandson, George.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Carolyn’s husband and sons extend their sincere thanks to Compassus Hospice, especially nurse Brie, and to her mother, siblings, and all family members for their loving presence and support.

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

Diane M. Denlinger

Diane M. Denlinger, 65, went to Heaven on Monday, January 26th, 2026 surrounded by her family following a courageous and faith-filled fight with ALS for over six years.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Sunday, February 1st, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 2595 Rockdale Road. Prior to the visitation, a wake service will be held at 2:45 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026, at St. Joseph Key West Church, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Interment will take place following the Mass at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

She was born on November 4th, 1960, at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque to John and Rosalee (Laughlin) Donahue. She was raised at the Donahue farm on Higginsport Road. This is where the importance of faith, family, hard work, and toughness were instilled in her.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior in 1979. She went on to complete nursing school at NICC and The University of Dubuque. She married Phil on June 22nd, 1991, at St. Theresa Church. Together they raised three kids: Tanner, Halie, and Abbie. She was very proud of them for choosing careers of service – a firefighter, a teacher, and a nurse. She was a dedicated nurse for 42 years. Many of these years were spent at Finley Hospital and most recently Mount Saint Francis, where she truly enjoyed caring for the sisters.

Diane’s Catholic faith was important to her, and she lived it out in many ways. She was an active member at St. Joseph Key West Parish, serving on the Green Team, Social Justice Committee, and St. Vincent de Paul Society. She was passionate about helping the poor and less fortunate. Her unwavering faith carried her through all of her hardships.

Diane’s family was everything to her, her greatest joy was caring for them and being fully present in their lives. Other hobbies included playing softball, gardening, baking, and enjoying the outdoors.

She is survived by her husband, Phil; children, Tanner Denlinger, Halie (Haris) Takes, and Abbie Denlinger (Zach); siblings, Sheila (Don) Feipel, Gail (Dave) Ploessl, Kevin (Karen) Donahue, Julie (Mike) Winker and Mike (Diana) Donahue; aunt, Sr. Elizabeth Donahue, OSF; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rosalee; mother- and father-in-law, Martin and Jean Denlinger; and a special uncle, Jerry Donahue.

We are sincerely thank our mother’s siblings and friends, the St. Joseph Key West community, the sisters and staff of Mount St. Francis, and Hospice of Dubuque for their incredible love, support, and prayers. While we may not be able to thank each person individually for their kindness and compassion, please know that you are appreciated beyond measure.

Richard R. Newbern

Richard F. Newbern, 89, of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Unity Point Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Guttenberg, Iowa. Memorial service will commence at 10 a.m. with Rev. Mike Ashman officiating. Interment of the cremated remains will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Guttenberg, Iowa.

Richard was born July 29, 1936, in Elkader, Iowa, son of Kenneth M. Newbern and Edna C. (Glawe) Newbern.  He received his education in the Elkader schools. After his service in the United States Air Force Security Service and his honorable discharge in 1957, he began working in Elkader at the Clayton County Auditor’s office and Clayton County Abstract office. On June 8, 1968, he was united in marriage to Mary Ann Junk in Guttenberg, Iowa and moved to Guttenberg where he was employed as manager of Oaktron Industries, Inc. and later at the Security State Bank as Vice President and loan officer for nearly 29 years until retirement in 1999.

He enjoyed many outdoor activities including fishing and boating (Mary Ann made him a river rat), hunting, camping, RV’ing, golfing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, motorcycling, and in his spare time, he loved to draw in the graphite and colored pencil media. He and his wife hold their memories dearly of the many beautiful trips they were blessed to make throughout the 50 US states and all the southern Canadien Provinces whether it be on their motorcycle, in their RV or by other means of transportation.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Mary Ann, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Dean (Doretta) Newbern, Donald (Arma Jean) Newbern; parents-in-law, Serenus and Jean Junk; brothers-in-law, James Junk and Robert (Mary) Junk; niece, Kenlyn Boelter; and a nephew, Kevin Newbern.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church or Catholic Daughters Association

Morris Funeral Home of Guttenberg is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Marshall E. Peyton

Marshall E. Peyton, 82 of Galena, IL, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on February 11, 1943, in Portsmouth, VA.

Marshall is survived by his wife of 57 years, Deanna “Dee” Peyton, son Brian (Lindsey) Peyton of Galena, three grandchildren, Natalie, Quentin and Connor, sister Marjory (Michael) Green, nephews, Mark (Rebecca) Green, Jeffrey Green, Justin (Suzanne) Green, sister-in-law Deniece Holman (Larry Chastain) and nephew Kevin (Tawni) Klotz, Dennis Smith Jr. (Marinda), Melissa Ettleman, Justin Smith, Nathan Smith, Nick (Sarah) Jaeger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Carl Peyton and Josephine (Sparks) Peyton; his daughter, Joann Elizabeth, at birth; his in-laws, Wilbur & Wilma Smith; and his brothers-in-law, Bob Holman and Dennis Smith.

A special thank you to my sister Deniece, my family, friends, and neighbors for all the help and support, and to Jessica and Meghan of Hospice of Dubuque, who gave Marshall such compassionate care.

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

Glenn H. Heller