Obituaries Archive

Sr. Mary Lou Anglin, BVM

Sister Mary Lou Anglin, BVM, 61, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Dr, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, May 29, 2021.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 3, 2022, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. (Mask are required.) Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. followed by the Sharing of Memories at 9:30 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial begins at 10:30 a.m. Burial of cremated remains will be in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. All services may be viewed through live videostream beginning at 9:15 a.m. at https://portal.stretchinternet.com/bvmsisters/.

Sister Lou served the BVM congregation as formation director and vice-president. She ministered as an elementary teacher, secondary religion teacher and campus minister in St. Louis and as an elementary teacher in Holy Trinity, Ala.

She was born Dec. 4, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, to John “Jack” and Laverne (Mahoney) Anglin. She entered the BVM congregation July 16, 1985, from St. Patrick Parish, Epworth, Iowa. She professed first vows on July 16, 1988, and final vows on July 16, 1994.

She was preceded in death by her father and a brother Patrick Anglin.  She is survived by her mother; a brother Robert “Bob” Anglin, Madison, Wis.; a sister Diane Forner, Gilbert, Ariz.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 36 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

Dolores C. Arnold

Dolores C. Arnold, 89, of East Dubuque, Illinois went to her eternal rest on May 29, 2022, with family by her side at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 2, 2022, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. Thursday. There will also be a visitation at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Friday, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Dolores was born in East Dubuque, Illinois on May 20, 1933, to Charles (Charlie) and Sylvia (Yonda) Vandermillen. She grew up at Frentress Lake just outside of East Dubuque and became a river rat at an early age. She never lost her love of the water. She loved teaching her grandchildren to swim.

Dolores married Kenneth (Bud) Arnold on September 22, 1951. Together they raised six children while operating Camp America on Highway 20 one mile east of East Dubuque for 28 years. The business included a restaurant, gas station, truck stop, repair shop, and 12-unit motel. In addition, they raised cattle and kept horses on 120 acres. Dolores was an energetic multi-tasker who seemed to be everywhere at once juggling all the work. Patrons at the restaurant savored Dolores’ homemade pies – six pies by 6:00am six days a week.

As if all that wasn’t enough, she also served for a time as Justice of the Peace for East Dubuque. Officers sometimes brought offenders to the restaurant for processing and fine collection. She enjoyed playing cards, especially poker. There were plenty of nickel and dime games played in the old restaurant.

Dolores loved her family more than anything on earth. Her six children, nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren were her greatest joy and priority in life. Her many nieces and nephews were also recipients of her special caring. No child was ever turned away. All were sheltered, fed, clothed and cared for like they were her own.

Dolores had a tremendous reverence and respect for life. As a result, she served as a volunteer for Birthright of Dubuque for 30 years. She helped numerous women with unexpected or crisis pregnancies. The many volunteers that she served with are among her most cherished friends.

To all of her many special Scrabble partners, Dolores the “word freak” has plans to have a board set up and ready to play when any of you arrive where she is now!

Dolores had an adventurous spirit. She loved a challenge and she loved to travel. In her younger days she once was spotted on the Mississippi River waterskiing with a tow rope in one hand and a beer bottle in the other. At her father’s home she became a pretty sharp opponent on the pool table. She was also known to occasionally make a batch of homemade wine. For many years she bowled with her girlfriends in a Tuesday night league. In her later years she didn’t slow down much. She went on a hot air balloon ride, went parasailing In Cancun, and learned to surf and snorkel in Hawaii. She probably still has her hula skirt.

In her spare time Dolores enjoyed reading, accumulating a list of more than 800 titles, most of which were biographies and nonfiction. She was an accomplished seamstress, making clothes for family and friends, and beautiful Christmas tree skirts for each of her children and grandchildren. She was an avid birdwatcher and so enjoyed feeding the wide variety of birds that visited her yard. Many hours were spent teaching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren the “who’s who” of the bird world.

A highly anticipated annual event at her home for over 50 years was the gathering of the entire family and extended family, with friends in tow, for the meticulous painting and decorating of many dozens of Christmas cookies she baked herself.

Dolores was extremely passionate about her faith in God. She rarely missed church services, even on vacation. She saw the beauty of God in all of nature and every person she met. She faithfully and happily served in many church activities including reading scripture, Power of Prayer, and Christian Experience weekends. Her gentle and encouraging spirit will be greatly missed.

Dolores is survived by her children Dan (Lesley) Arnold, Valerie (Tom) Zalaznik, Vanessa Hoffmann, and Carla Kipper; grandchildren Shannon (Steven) Moller, Troy (Jenny) Zalaznik, Lindsay (Patrick) Breitbach, Caleb and Mason (Carrie) Hoffmann, Kendal (Tony) Bartlett, Nastasha (Johnathan) Krantz, and Ben (fiancé Katelyn McIntyre) and Logan Kipper; great grandchildren Alexis and Ian Moller, Finley and Dexter Zalaznik, Ethan and Riley Breitbach, Aiden and Charles Hoffmann, Madison Bartlett, Caedence, Atom, Zaydenn and Xion Krantz, and Reagan Kipper, a sister Dorothy (Donald) Bohnsack, and former daughter-in-law Pam Kuntz.

Dolores was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth and their children Kelly and Vivian Arnold, her parents Charles and Sylvia Vandermillen, sister Diane Buhr, brothers Dale and Daniel Vandermillen, sister-in-law Mary Vandermillen and brother-in-law Vic Buhr.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Birthright of Dubuque.

The family would like to offer heartfelt gratitude to all of the doctors, nurses and caregivers who helped make Dolores’ final years more comfortable. We sincerely thank the wonderful staff of Luther Manor for your kind care, and Hospice of Dubuque for your compassionate service once again. You are all angels.

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

David L. Feipel

David L. “Dave” Feipel, age 68, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 29, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family. To honor Dave’s life, a private family Celebration of Life is being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dave’s family.

Dave was born on April 19, 1954, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Donald and Lela (Close-Tigges) Feipel. Dave began developing his lifelong character traits from a very early age, and over the years came as close to perfecting the term “a man among men” as you could ever hope to meet.  His love and devotion for his family and friends were legendary, but he also understood that taking himself or life too seriously was not going to be part of the equation if true joy was going to be found in this world. Dave’s commitment to his career and volunteer positions over the years was a true testament to a man who understood that he was more than a mere member of our community, but rather had a responsibility to invest within the community around him the time and talents which he was gifted with.  He was the manager of Jaeger Hardware for many years and anyone who stopped in was sure to spend more time visiting than shopping if Dave was at the desk.  He later moved into the hardware department at Theisen’s and spent many years there sharing his skills and knowledge with the new team around him. His free time consisted of spending time in his woodworking shop at home, and immeasurable hours with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps where he sat on the board and was the Cadets Director, with AYSO Soccer as a formidable coach, and the head woodsman for Simple Treasures. His vast service record was only amplified by his years with the Noon Optimist Club. He was a Past Distinguished President, 4-time Lt. Governor, Iowa District Convention Chairman, various Committee Chairs, sat on the Storybook Children’s Zoo board, and was a faithful and proud Life Member. Dave had a heart for others, and it was clearly abundant when all could easily witness his words and actions coincide without hesitation.

Dave leaves behind a legacy which will continue to serve as a solid measure for anyone desiring to leave the world in better shape than when they arrived. But, at the end of the day, Dave was a family man through and through. His unwavering love for his beautiful bride, Doris Pluym, along with his daughter, Melissa, and her family, was where he found his greatest joy in this life.  Any time he could spend with them was considered to be not only quality time, but some of the best hours of any day he had. It’s beyond difficult to imagine a world without Dave’s zest for life residing alongside us, but we also watched as his courageous battle with cancer was taking a greater toll than Dave was willing to surrender. We will search and find peace in time within the wonderful memories which he leaves behind now and are reluctantly grateful that his earthly struggles are now behind him. Thank you, Dave, for teaching us so many important life lessons.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dave include,

his loving wife of 44 years,
Doris Feipel, Dubuque, IA;

his daughter,
Melissa (Ben) Rezab, Ankeny, IA;

his grandchildren,
Parker and Dawson Rezab, Ankeny, IA;

his close family friend,
Terri Sue Thompson, Denver, CO;

his siblings,
Richard “Dick” (Pat) Feipel, Dubuque, IA,
and Barbara “Barb” (Roger) Schueller, Sherrill, IA;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Ed Kieffer, Terrace Inverness, FL,
Dianna Smith, West Des Moines, IA,
Donna (Clyde) Engler, Dubuque, IA,
and David (Diane) Pluym, Hazel Green, WI;

his 18 nieces and nephews,

Pam (Jake) Oster, Godson Don (Sheila) Feipel, dear friend and nephew Bryon “Homer” (Ronda) Schueller, Mark (Tina) Schueller, Tricia (Jason) Schumacher, David Schueller, Dee (Scott) Borth, Doug Kieffer, Jenny (Larry) Mosley, Talli Smith, Jeromy Smith, Adam (Sarah) Smith, Josh Engler, Stephani Engler, Bryan (Erin) Engler, Garrett (Ilina) Pluym, Evan (Kym) Pluym, and Connor (April) Pluym;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Art Tigges; his sister, Beverly “Sis” Kieffer, and his mother-in-law, Violetta Pluym.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dave’s name to Hospice of Dubuque, 1670 J.F.K. Rd, Dubuque, IA, 52002.

Dave’s family would like to thank Dr. Chris Stille, Dr. Engelman, primary nurse Kristin Schroeder, the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, and all of our family and friends who so generously shared both your professional and compassionate care with Dave and his family. All of the love and support you so graciously shared helped us all through some of the most difficult days we’ve ever had to face. There are simply not words to express how grateful we are for each and every one of you.

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

Pauline M. Meyer

Pauline M. Meyer, age 90, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on May 28, 2022, at home surrounded by her loving family.  Per  Pauline’s request, a private family service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pauline’s family.

Pauline was born on March 14, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Frank and Crescentia (Wathier) Bechen.  She grew up in the Lamott area and was raised by her Aunt Clara Hingtgen and Cousin Justin Hingtgen.  Pauline and Harlow L. Meyer were married February 18, 1952, and celebrated 70 years this year.   She worked at the Dubuque Stamp retiring in 1997.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Pauline include,

her loving husband of 70 years,
Harlow L. Meyer, Dubuque, IA;

her two daughters,
Victoria “Vickie” (Jim) Oldham, Peosta, IA,
and Rhonda (Steve) Curler, Walford, IA;

her four grandchildren,
Heather (Joe) Lefevre, Chad (Amy) Oldham, Matt (Courtney) Curler, and Abby (Brett) Foreman;

her three great-grandchildren,
Camber Oldham, Leo Lefevre, and Olive Lefevre;

her sister,
Zita Elgin;

her sisters-in-law,
Darlene (Loras) Flynn,
and Gerry (Walt) Hutchinson;

and her brother-in-law,
David Meyer.

Pauline was preceded in death by her grandson, Nicholas Curler;  her parents; her aunt Clara Hingtgen and cousin Justin Hingtgen; her brothers, Richard , Bob,  Olin, and  Frannie; her sister, Ruth  Becker; brother-in-law, Merlin Meyer; and sisters-in-law, Shirley Kennedy, Janann Mcpoland, and Donna Moore.

Pauline’s family would like to thank all of the staff at Eagle Point Place for all of their excellent love and care of mom over the past few years.  We would also like to express a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeremiah, Ryan and Amber, for not only providing mom with such wonderful care, but for also touching all of our hearts sincerely along the way.

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

John P. Schreiber

John P. Schreiber, 90, of Dubuque passed away Saturday May 28, 2022, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows Campus.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. Andy Upah and Fr. Carl Reis officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery with military Honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Visitation will be at Nativity from 9:00 a.m. until mass time on Wednesday. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.

John was born on April 22, 1932, in Dubuque the youngest of six children to Charles and Emily (Weirich) Schreiber. He was educated at Nativity and Saint Columbkille. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 during the Korean War. John married Mary Ann Schenker in 1959 at Saint Raphael Cathedral. He worked for several Dubuque business, until he began his career as Purchasing Director for the University of Wisconsin, Platteville Campus. This position along with the energy of campus life, provided him with a memorable work experience.

His interest included travel, gardening, and classical music. He was fortunate to attend the Mozart Music festival in Salzburg, Austria, not once but twice. He was grateful to be part of the 2012 Honor Flight to our nations, capital.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years Mary Ann,, his son Doug of Dubuque, a daughter Laura (Steve) Dempsey of Arizona, two granddaughters, two great grandsons, brothers-in-law Tom and Jim (Mary) Schenker along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Mary (Bert) Hanson,, Marita (Carl) Kreamer, Fred (Patricia) Schreiber, Robert (Jeanette) Schreiber and Charles (Mary Lou) Schreiber.

In lieu of flowers, donations to your favorite charity in John’s name would be greatly appreciated.

Marilyn L. Pleiness

Marilyn L. Pleiness, age 77, of Cedar Rapids, IA, formerly of Dubuque, IA, was called home to the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on May 28, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids due to complications from COVID Pneumonia.  To honor Marilyn’s life, her memorial service will be held on June 25, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at Good News Baptist Church, 1203 3^rd Avenue S.W., Cedar Rapids, IA, with her brother-in-law, Robert Harvey officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in food and fellowship from 12pm until 2:00 p.m. after the service at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Marilyn’s family.

Marilyn was born on July 22, 1944, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, a daughter to Clyde and Catherine (Kote) Pillivant, where she lived until she was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Robert C. Pleiness, Sr., on July 28, 1962.  Her 77-year earthly journey can be best described as one of love, commitment, and devotion, not only to her family and friends, but to her Creator as well.  In 1971, Robert and Marilyn founded Bible Baptist Church in Dubuque Iowa, after attending Arlington Baptist Seminar in Arlington, Texas. They stayed and ministered in Dubuque for 25 years.  They then moved to Cedar Rapids, when Robert became Pastor of Good News Baptist Church.   Being the salt and light in the world around her came very naturally to Marilyn and the legacy she leaves behind is a wonderful testimony for all who knew and loved her to reflect upon.  Her love of fishing started as a young child with her dad and continued throughout her life.  She was a gifted musician and thoroughly enjoyed sharing her talents on the piano and violin, along with her beautiful singing voice with all who would listen.  Sharing the Good News of Christ’s love and salvation through Him were continually on display in Marilyn’s daily life.   In her free-time, she enjoyed playing games with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, working on her latest puzzles and watching the Cedar Rapids Kernels play ball on a nice day.   Marilyn’s love for life and the opportunities to share all that was good in it was evident in her perpetually positive attitude.  She knew and understood that God is sovereign in all things and that His plan is always for good for those who love Him.  It’s difficult to say farewell for now to our dear Marilyn as she passes from this temporal world into eternity, but we will be forever grateful that the Lord saw fit to place Marilyn in all of our lives at this time and for the abundance of years and memories we were given as well.  Thank you, Marilyn, for leading by example, giving more than receiving, and living the life of a good and faithful servant throughout.  May the Lord now keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Marilyn include,

her loving husband,
Pastor Robert C. Pleiness, Sr., Cedar Rapids, IA;

her two adored children,
Robert (Lori) Pleiness, Jr., Fairfax, IA,
and Sherri (Ron) Street, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her nine grandchildren,
Jason (Kristal) Bolton, Ely, IA,
Eric (Taylor) Bolton, Ely, IA,
Alex Pleiness, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Zachary Bolton, North Liberty, IA,
Zach Street, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Catherine Natalya Pleiness, West Des Moines, IA,
Arianna (Garson) Hiles, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Brayden Street, Cedar Rapids, IA,
and David Street, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her four great-grandchildren,
Austin, Layla, Duke and Ella;

her sister,
Judy (Robert) Harvey, Mt. Clemens, Michigan

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Clyde E. Pillivant, Jr.

Marilyn’s family would like to thank all of their family and friends who have been by our sides through this difficult journey.  Your love and support have truly made a difference and we pray that the Lord will bless you all for your kindnesses.

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

Memorials can be sent to Robert Pleiness in care of Good News Baptist Church, 1203 3rd Avenue S.W., Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404

Elizabeth M. Knabel

Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Knabel, 97, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 26th, 2022, at Luther Manor – Grand Meadows. Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 3rd, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. John Lange officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 2nd, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Betty was born on May 16th, 1925, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Cecilia (Roediger) Lange. She was a lifelong member of Church of the Nativity Catholic church in Dubuque, having attended school, received the Sacraments, and married her husband Raymond Knabel there on April 26th, 1947.

She was a fantastic mother to her children Nancy, Mark, and John. After raising her children, she worked at Woolworths in the Kennedy Mall managing the Men & Boy’s departments. After retiring from Woolworths, she taught cribbage with her older sister, Rita, at the Roberta Kuhn Center at Mount Carmel for many years. She and Rita also volunteered at the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for many years.

Betty enjoyed helping with her many grandchildren, teaching them how to play cribbage and euchre. Family picnics at Higginsport, Mitchel Springs, and Eagle Point Park were favorite outings. She was noted for her delicious meatloaf and rhubarb pie.

She was a loving wife to Ray and a wonderful mother, as family was most important to her. It was remarkable that she learned to care for her husband, putting him on home hemodialysis for seven years. She stayed in shape by going on long walks with her dog, Francie.

She is survived by her children Nancy (John) Elvekrog, Dr. Mark (Mary) Knabel, and John (Janet) Knabel, brothers Martin, Father John and Carl Lange, and younger sister Phyllis Blichmann; grandchildren Liz (Eric) Johnson, Dr. Peter (Hillarey) Knabel, Anne Knabel, Dr. Daniel (Jacquelyn) Knabel, Dr. Michael (Grace) Knabel, Dr. Benjamin (Kelsey) Knabel, Jacob Knabel, and Dr. Matthew (special friend Nicole) Knabel; great grandchildren Theodore Johnson, and Lorelei, James, Lucy, Zoe, Sophia, Millie, Montez, and Henry Knabel.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Ray, her older sisters Rita Knabel and Lou Schmalz, and grandchildren Lisa Knabel and Christian Elvekrog.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established at the Dubuque Arboretum and Mount Pleasant Home of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank the kind and caring staff at Grand Meadows Asbury and the dedicated and special nurses at Hospice of Dubuque. Betty was blessed to have you taking care of her. We will never forget your loving care of our mom, grandma, and great grandma.

Janice Feltes

Mary L. Wagner

Mary Lourdes “Mary Lou” (Jaeger) Wagner passed away at home on Tuesday, May 24.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at St Anthony’s on June 6 at 10:30 am and Mary Lou will be buried next to her husband at Mt Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal visitation, but the family will receive visitors at St. Anthony between 9:30 and 10:15 am before the funeral Mass.

Mary Lou, the daughter of Walter Frederick and Matilda (Van Duelman) Jaeger, was born on March 1, 1924 in Dubuque. She attended St. Anthony’s Grade School and graduated from St. Joseph’s High School and Bayless Business College. She worked at Nurre Glass and Pittsburgh Plate Glass in Dubuque until her marriage. She married John Anthony Wagner on July 9, 1947 and the couple moved from Dubuque to Clinton, Iowa, where her husband became a partner in Wagner Pharmacy. During their time in Clinton, Mary Lou and John had four children – John, Cindy, Paul, and Ann.  After the death of her husband in 1959, Mary Lou and her children returned to Dubuque.

She was a homemaker and a full-time mother until her youngest was old enough to attend school. She worked at several jobs before beginning a career as a teller at American Trust and Savings Bank. She was promoted within the bank and retired as an officer. Mary Lou’s most important vocations were being a wife and a mother. She shared her love of education with her children and all four became educators. John joined the faculty at Harvard and is now a Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. Cindy taught, coached, and worked as a vice principal at Wahlert Catholic High School. Paul taught and coached at Grinnell High School. Ann taught science in St. Francis, Minnesota.

Mary Lou enjoyed watching sports, loved to read, cook, play Euchre, and garden. She cross stitched hundreds of blankets for babies in her extended family. She was a faithful member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish.

Mary Lou is survived by her children John (Lorraine Gudas) Wagner (New York City), Cindy Wagner (Dubuque), Paul (Jill) Wagner (Grinnell, Iowa), and Ann (John) Ackerman (Mounds View, Minnesota). She is also survived by five grandchildren (Gregory Wagner, Jason Wagner, Nicholas Wagner, Kathleen Ackerman, and Benjamin Ackerman) and six great grandchildren (Jaxon, Tyson, Cadence, Jennings, Evie, and Davis) as well as many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law (Leo Wagner and Walter (Barbara) Wagner) and her sisters-in-law (Mary Ann Theisen, Dorothy Eisbach, and Helen O’Leary).

She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings and their spouses Alvin (Kathleen), Leonard, Anne (John) Baron, Clarence, Robert, Helen, and Florence (James) McGuire.  She was also preceded in death by, her in-laws (George & Mary Wagner, Anthony & Shirley Wagner, Joseph & Monica Wagner, Alice Wagner, Donald Theisen, Mary Wagner, Merlin & Margaret Goerdt, Lee Eisbach, and Robert O’Leary).

Arrangements are being made through the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory (https://www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hills and Dales, Stonehill Care Center, and St. Anthony Church.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ringold, Dr. Compton and their nurses for their care and kindness to Mary Lou over the years. Thanks to Hospice of Dubuque Hospice the compassionate care, they gave Mary Lou.

Sister Otilie Sana, BVM

Sister Otilie Sana, BVM, 86, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Dr., Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, May 25, 2022.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. followed by the Sharing of Memories at 9:30 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial begins at 10:30 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. All services may be viewed through live videostream beginning at 9:15 a.m. at https://portal.stretchinternet.com/bvmsisters/.

Sister Otilie was an elementary teacher at Holy Family in Mason City, Iowa.  She also taught in Burlington, Iowa; West Hempstead, N.Y.; and Chicago where she also ministered as a co-director and tutor at an employment education center.

She was born July 26, 1935, in Chicago to Vaclav and Otilie (Barczuk) Sana. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1954, from Mary Queen of Heaven parish, Cicero, Ill. She professed first vows on March 19, 1957, and final vows on July 16, 1962.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Vaclav Sana, Jr.  She is survived by brothers John (Ann) Sana, Scottsdale, Ariz., and Joseph (Suzanne) Sana, Arlington Heights, Ill.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 67 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003 is in charge of arrangements.

Gary R. Fichtinger

Gary R. Fichtinger, age 71, of Hazel Green, WI, died peacefully on March 7, 2022, in his home surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Gary’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 9, 2022, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m., in the River Front Pavilion at Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Avenue in Dubuque.

Gary was born in Sauk Centre, MN, on January 28, 1951, the first child of Ralph and Marcella (Sand) Fichtinger.  He enjoyed growing up on a dairy farm with his siblings that followed, Pat, Gayle, and Mark. One of his greatest thrills was tinkering with and building gadgets from the scrap metal and old machine parts he found around the farmstead. In his high school years, he became interested in cars and car engines. To the amazement of friends and family, he managed to completely restore a 1950 Ford.  When it was time to paint the car, the only color available on the farm was John Deere green (so fitting!). His interest in engines and mechanics led him to enroll at St. Cloud State University to study engineering, eventually completing his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Minnesota.

After being hired by John Deere, Gary, wife, Ann (Ohmann), and young son, Michael, moved to Dubuque in 1974. He enthusiastically began work on the forestry line, designing components for log skidders.  He was a talented and well-respected engineer, colleague, and friend to many at John Deere.

In 1976, the growing family moved across the river to Wisconsin with a new son, Paul, and twins, Leah and David, on the way.  They purchased a 5-acre wooded lot and started building a self-designed geodesic dome house.  Gary spent nearly two decades building the dome with everyone in the family spending evenings, weekends, and summer breaks pitching in.

In 1999, Gary had an opportunity for a work assignment in Germany, helping to design a new machine for Deere.  He and Ann moved to Jaegersburg, where they lived for two years enjoying the German culture and traveling around Europe with their dogs, Schatzi and Woody.

Gary retired from John Deere in 2012 and turned his focus to the many projects he had dreamed of over the years.  He and Ann purchased his great aunt and uncle’s house which was part of the original Fichtinger homestead farm near New Munich, MN.  The old farmhouse needed a lot of remodeling work to bring it back to life, which Gary dove into with enthusiasm.

Gary’s favorite pastimes were fishing and camping. He always looked forward to the annual Boundary Waters trip which he and his sons, and later grandkids, would take.  He loved getting away in the wilderness, catching and frying fish, and laying out under the stars.

Gary loved learning new things, including baking. He mastered a recipe of no-knead bread that is fondly called “Opa Bread” by his family and “Gary Bread” by his friends.

Gary had a passion for life, talking shop, solving problems (often other people’s), and having a good laugh at the end of the day.  He will be deeply missed by his loving family and many friends, for whom life has grown dimmer with his passing.  We love you Gary, Dad, and Opa!

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Ann Fichtinger, Hazel Green, WI; his children, Michael (Yuka Veda of Osaka, Japan) Fichtinger, Hazel Green, WI, Paul (Jessica Montez) Fichtinger, Fall River, WI, David (Melissa) Fichtinger, Rochester, MN, and Leah (Orel Stringa) Fichtinger, Pleasanton, CA; his grandchildren, Maria, Raymond and Greta Fichtinger, Nora, Ana, and Genc Stringa, and Franklin Fichtinger; his siblings, Patricia (Gordon) Gillesby, Andover, MN, Gayle (Paul Lafreniere) Fichtinger, New London, NH, and Mark (Michelle Levinski) Fichtinger, Glenside, PA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Marcella Fichtinger.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Lustgarten Pancreatic Cancer research foundation. https://events.lustgarten.org/give/192132/#!/donation/checkout

Gary’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Herbert J. Tegeler

Dr. Rachel A. Schemmel

Rachel Anne Schemmel, age 92, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Dyersville, IA and East Lansing, MI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 15, 2022.

Update service info only in the Dyers. Commercial, Th, KDST, Dbq Adv and our website.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10 a.m. on Friday, June 3, 2022 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa with a Memorial Mass to commence at 10:30 a.m.  Burial will follow at St. Paul Cemetery in Worthington.

Rachel was born in 1929 to Frederic A. and Emma (Melchert) Schemmel on the family farm in Farley, Iowa.  She attended St Joseph School in Farley, graduated from Mount Mercy College and then earned her bachelors degree at Clarke College in 1951. Along with the Dietetic Internship at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Dr Schemmel received her masters degree in Nutrition from the University of Iowa in 1952.  After working as a dietitian in Los Angeles, she began teaching Food Science & Human Nutrition at Michigan State University, where she earned her PhD. She was a trailblazer for women in the Sciences and her career helped pave the path for many female academics and professionals who studied with her during 45 years at MSU.

She earned a distinguished international reputation for studies of dietary factors in the development of obesity with hundreds of publications to her credit. She conducted research at Cambridge University in Cambridge, England. The rodent DNA model of dietary obesity, which she developed at MSU, continues to serve as the basis for work by other researchers to this day.

She is the recipient of numerous awards including Outstanding Alumni Awards from each college she attended, Women Achievers Award, a Leader Award and a Borden Research Award from the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, ASNS Fellow Award for Experimental Biology, Dietetic Educator Awards from both the Michigan and American Dietetic Associations, and the Distinguished Faculty Award and Research and Outreach Awards from Michigan State University.

She served as past president of the Michigan Dietetics Association, and provided professional services to the American Dietetics Association, American Society for Nutritional Sciences, North American Association for the Study of Obesity and the Michigan Heart Association.  She is a life member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and is listed in multiple Who’s Who publications.

Rachel was a devout Catholic. She enjoyed genealogical research and traveled to Germany in that pursuit. She organized fun family reunions attended by hundreds.  She loved her gardens and the beautiful flowering cherry tree outside her window in East Lansing.  A great cook and hostess, she often opened her home to students who were alone at the holidays or otherwise needing a meal and good conversation.  She enjoyed writing poetry and contributed articles to various organizations such as The Iowa Barn Foundation and The New Vienna (Iowa) Historical Society.  She traveled the world with her many dear friends/colleagues.  A loyal MSU Spartans fan, she especially enjoyed football and women’s basketball.  Her spirit was joyous and generous.

Those left to cherish her memory include her niece Deborah (Lee David) Fautsch of Dubuque, with whom she lived until recently, niece Sheree Ann Meyer (Byron Shuford) of Orlando Florida, nephew Richard (Kathy) Adams of Tucson, Arizona, great nephew Justin (Judy) Fautsch of Pasadena, California, and great niece, Kristin Kielpinski of Parker, Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Virginia Meyer, half sister Lucile Adams,  half brother Floyd Schemmel, brothers in law Dr. Herbert Meyer and Horace A. Adams.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dr. Rachel A. Schemmel Endowed Lecture/Undergraduate Research Scholarship Fund (A11294) at Michigan State University, The Dr Rachel A. Schemmel Graduate Student Endowed Research Scholarship (A11295) also at Michigan State, the Rachel Schemmel Endowed Scholarship Fund in Dietetics/Nutrition at the University of Iowa, The Schemmel Endowed Theology Lecture at Clarke University, Dubuque, Iowa or St Thomas Aquinas Parish and School, East Lansing, Michigan.

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

Ida Mae Norton

Ida Mae Norton, 72 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, May 23, 2022, with her children at her side at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, May 28, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may call after 9 AM until the time of service. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena next to her husband of thirty-nine years, Robert W. Norton Sr.

She was born November 30, 1949, in Hazel Green, WI the daughter of Elmer Harwick and Hazel Phillips. Ida was united in marriage to Robert W. Norton Sr. on November 30, 1967, and he preceded her in death on July 23, 2007.  Three children were born into this union, Sheri (Andy) Hornung, Kelly Ashford, and Robert W. (Tina) Norton Jr., eleven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren,two sisters, Donna (Ken) Muchow and Karen Hughes, and many nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a brother, John Phillips.

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

Frances A. Schroeder

Frances A. (Farni) Schroeder, age 102, of Dubuque, passed away due to Covid 19 complications at 9:30 p.m., on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Frances’ life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, at St. Anthony’s Church with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Frances was born on August 9, 1919, at home at 5 Points in Dubuque County, daughter of John and Gertrude (Breitbach) Farni.

Frances was a life long resident of Dubuque and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy.  She married Alvin Schroeder on August 19, 1950, in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 9 wonderful children and married for 43 years before Alvin passed away on May 7, 1994.  She worked as a waitress at the Woolworth’s Coffee Shop, at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. for 4 ½ years and at American Optical for a year, but her primary focus was always on caring for her home and family.  She graduated from Paris Beauty Academy in Cedar Rapids and was a beautician for several years at Di-Ann’s Beauty Shop, as well as styling clients at Stonehill and in private homes for those who were not able to get out to the salon.  Frances was very active with her community and was a long time member of St. Anthony’s Church, Rosary Society and also sang in the choir.  She was a member of St. Joseph’s Circle, German Club, Al-Anon of Dubuque, ARK Advocates, an Immaculate Conception Alumni and volunteered countless hours at Stonehill.  She also loved cooking, baking, (her cinnamon rolls were fantastic), and canning all of the bounty from her extensive garden.  Frances truly loved her family and took great pride in all of their achievements.  She was a strong woman who experienced many changes in her 102 years here on Earth.  We will miss her more than words can convey and look forward to the day we are all reunited in Heaven.

Those left to cherish Frances’ memory include

her 9 children,
Jerry (Laura) Schroeder, Dubuque, IA,
Carol Gleason, Roscoe, IL,
Patty (Mike) Mowry, Benton, WI,
Terry (Kay) Schroeder, Ozark, MO,
Perry (Ann) Schroeder, Dubuque, IA,
Mary (Scott) Miller, Jefferson, SD,
Denny Schroeder, Dubuque, IA,
Gina (Tim) Axtell, Dubuque, IA
and Rick (Linda) Schroeder, Plymouth, MN;

17 grandchildren,
Jakob (Lynnae), Nathan (Shannon), Austin, Eric (Sarah), Brian, Matt (Susan), Jason (Kate), Megan (Nasser Nasralla), Ryan (Stephanie), Lyndsay (Keith), Kristine (John), Nick (Dana), Mitchell (fiancé Sydney), Logan, Nicole (Josh), Tiffany (fiancé Brian) and Zach;

17 great-grandchildren;

a sister-in-law,
Shirley Schroeder, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a grandson, Christopher Koos; 2 sisters; and 7 brothers.

Frances’ family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the nurses and staff of Home Instead and Stonehill for the wonderful care and companionship they have provided Frances.  Also a special thanks to her neighbors Bev and Steve Wagner for all of their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Frances’ memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Frances Schroeder Family.

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