Obituaries Archive

Shirley A. Frommelt

Shirley A. Frommelt, age 82, of Hazel Green, Wisconsin, completed her earthly journey on April 6, 2021, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Shirley’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Shirley’s family.

Shirley was born on January 20, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter to John and Arletta (Henning) Speaker.  She learned from a very early age which of the moments in life would truly bring her joy throughout the rest of her journey; family, friends, animals, and the outdoors.  Shirley met the love of her life, Roger Frommelt, in high school and the couple was eventually united in marriage shortly after in 1958.  Within a year they had found a beautiful homestead in the country where they raised their family and enjoy each and every day to the fullest.  Shirley spent over 20 years working outside of the home at Loras College, but she would willingly admit that her heart was always at home through each and every day.  Shirley always had a special place in her heart for her beloved pets, especially Toby and Kiki, but her horses would take a 2^nd place to none as well.  She always enjoyed the rodeo years with the kids when they were younger and the memories they made still bring a smile and a chuckle to those sitting around the table reminiscing yet today.  Shirley’s most treasured times were spent camping, fishing, and lounging in the sun with her family and most cherished friend, Rita. After over 40 years of practice, Shirley was never quite able to perfect her cast, but with her positive and dedicated character, she was more than ecstatic to cast her pole in anytime.  Shirley loved and adored her family and friends with the full might of her being.  Her heart was as big as it was kind, compassionate, and gentle with a touch of spice, too. Thankfully, the collection of wonderful memories she leaves behind today will help to heal the broken hearts of all who knew and loved her.  It’s difficult to imagine facing the days ahead without our strong and fun-loving matriarch at the helm, but we trust that the Lord will keep her safe in His loving arms until we meet again.  Thank you, Shirley, for teaching us that some of the most valuable lessons in life can also be some of the most rewarding. We will continue to carry your warmhearted spirit with us by loving ever so deeply, laughing often, and always taking time to stop and enjoy the little things. “In life, we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place, no one else will ever fill.” Until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Shirley include,

her loving husband of 62 years,
Roger Frommelt, Hazel Green, Wisconsin;

her 4 children,
Tim (Becky) Frommelt, Hazel Green, Wisconsin,
Russ (Tilly) Frommelt, Dubuque, Iowa,
Robin (Denny) Dimick, East Dubuque, Illinois,
and Cory (Odetta) Frommelt, Hazel Green, Wisconsin;

her grandchildren,
Ben Frommelt, Jesse Frommelt, Devon Dimick, Jalee Frommelt, Cody (Brittany) Frommelt, Alea (Chase) Lynch, Michael Frommelt, and Crystal (Steve) Beighley;

her great-grandchildren,
Riley Frommelt, Mason Leib, Gavin Frommelt, Landon Frommelt, Kylin Lynch, Ian Frommelt, Melanie Beighley, Braelin Beighley, and another on the way;

her dearest friend,
Rita Vogt, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents.

Shirley’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Shirley, and her family.

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

Ronald L. Schaal

Ronald “Ron” “Ronnie” L. Schaal, Sr., 92, was promoted to glory on April 9, 2021.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Saturday, April 17 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, with Captain Matt Phelps officiating. The funeral service will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery where Military Honors will be conducted. A visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00 PM, Friday, April 16 and from 9:00 to 9:45 AM, Saturday at the funeral home. Masks and social distancing are required.

Ron was born on November 21, 1928 in Cassville, WI, to Roy and Alice (Greenwood) Schaal.

He married the love of his life, Joan “JoAnne” N. Nicholls on May 9, 1952 and started their family. In their nearly 69 years of marriage they gave all their loving energy to raising Ron Jr., Milton and Cindy. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great- grandfather.

He joined the United States Navy at the age of 16 where he served in Norfolk, Virginia during WWII. He retired from John Deere Dubuque Works after 28 years in 1986.

He drove stock cars, enjoyed hunting and Canada fishing. They camped at Lake Joy Campground where he spent summers fishing and making camper friends. They eventually moved their campers to their land in Millville Township, Grant County, WI, where they spent time in “God’s Country” with family and friends, and where their daughter, Cindy and family resides.

Those left to celebrate his memory are his wife, Joan; children, Ron Jr., (Ann) and Cindy (Gary) Stoney; grandchildren, Jason Schaal, Art (Tammy) Stoney, Amy (Adam) Leeser and Dawn Schaal; great- grandchildren, David, Daniel, and Milana Schaal; siblings, Bruce (Annabelle) Schaal, and Leola Skaife; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded to glory by his son, Milton; daughter-in-law, Dorothy; parents; father and mother-in law, Chet (Lucy) Nicholls; and brother-in-law, Richard Skaife.

Ron’s family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, staff at Luther Manor, and the friends and neighbors who cared for him. Also, thank you to Major Tom Mason and Captain Matt Phelps of the Salvation Army for their spiritual guidance and friendship.

His life will be fondly remembered and treasured.

Lloyd J. Welter

Lloyd Joseph Welter “LJW”, 84, of Monticello, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2021, at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 8 pm Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello.  Visitation will continue Wednesday from 9:30 – 10:30 am at the funeral home prior to Mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am Wednesday, April 14, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.  Burial will be in the church cemetery with military honors.  Services will be live streamed via the Sacred Heart Facebook page.  Masks are required at Mass and social distancing is encouraged.

Lloyd was born January 3, 1937, at the Monticello Hospital in Monticello, IA to John and Rose (Kramer) Welter.   He grew up with three brothers on the family farm a few miles south of Monticello where he later made his family home.  Lloyd graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Monticello in 1954 and was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve as a Communications Specialist stationed in Europe from 1956-1958.  During his two-year military service Lloyd survived several life-threatening events and typical of him, came through them more optimistic and adventurous than before.

Upon his return from the Army, Lloyd attended Loras College in Dubuque.  He met his future wife, Joyce Kronlage at a dance at the Prairiemoon Ballroom.  The two were married on October 5, 1963, in Prairieburg, and began building what would become a large and wonderful family with six children.

In the 1980’s Lloyd was affected like many in the farm crisis, but true to his nature, Lloyd stood through the adversity and pivoted by creating a new business initially as Farmstead Builders.  He subsequently started the 40-year-old business of Welter Storage Equipment Company created new opportunity for Lloyd’s family, communities throughout Iowa, and specifically Monticello, Cedar Rapids and Dubuque.

The saying that “Everyone lives but few have the courage to really live” applied to Lloyd. He really enjoyed collecting antique cars, tractors and trucks, attending the Great Jones County Fair, and driving around Monticello.  He was a long-time member of the Lion’s Club.  More descriptive of Lloyd was his love for his family, his friends, community and people in general.  He enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his lake Delhi cabin and twenty winters in their Florida home.  The social aspect of Lloyd’s life was paramount to his perspective and he engaged people of all walks through his genuine interest in their lives and stories.

Lloyd’s time in Europe ignited his interest in the world and travel.  After his career was stabilized, Lloyd and his wife Joyce travelled throughout the world.  Lloyd’s interest was in the people of the world more than the places and those travels impacted his life very positively.  He loved collecting items from other countries that reminded him of their unique culture.

Lloyd and Joyce’s children include Ronald (Lori) Welter, David (Shar) Welter, Robert (Julie) Welter, and Donna (Dan) Sauser, all of Monticello, Mary (Charles) Dirks of North Liberty and Dean (Kathy) Welter of Cedar Rapids.   They have 18 grandchildren aged 11 to 28; Dylan, Tasia, Kelli, Jessi, John, Maci, Nick, Blake, Brooke, Drew, Reginald, Cole, & Luke Welter, Taylor (Andrew) Gomez, Jack Berg, Kyle, Nathan & Ella Sauser; siblings: Jerry (Ruth) Welter and Don (Karen) Welter; in-laws: Mag Welter, Tom Kronlage, Janet Fredericks and Audrey (George) Bethell.

He is preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Louis and Mabel Kronlage, grandson, Kyle Sauser brother, Eldon Welter; in-laws: Jane Kronlage and Roger Fredericks.

Lloyd’s family was his true love and the joy he experienced with them was evident to all.  His wish was always for their success, individuality and their freedom to live their lives completely.  Lloyd’s life was a life “well lived” and he was an example for us all to take action towards the purpose of our lives.  In the end, he will be remembered for how he influenced our lives positively and gifts he offered in the form of his life by example.  He was very much a leader and he engendered an understanding of hope and possibility in those who knew him best.  We are better for loving and knowing him.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Cards may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, Iowa 52310-0791.

Anne M. Sweeney

Anne Mary Sweeney, 81 formerly of Bernard, Iowa and current resident of Seventh Heaven Adult Family Home in Dubuque, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2021.

A mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 at St. Joseph The Worker catholic Church with Rev. James Goerend officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church until time of mass. A recording of the funeral mass will be available on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page following the mass.

Memorials may be given to the Parkinson’s Foundation, St. Joseph the Worker Church or charity of your choice.

Anne was born March 8, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of James and Mae (Kingsley) Sweeney. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque in 1959.

Anne lived a long and full life on the Sweeney family farm caring for her animals and companion Dobermans. Anne enjoyed several trips to Ireland with her sister Mary Claire. When health issues required assisted living, she moved into Seventh Heaven in Dubuque. The Sweeney family is grateful to Mary and Junior Elliott for providing a happy and loving home for Anne’s final 6 years at Seventh Heaven.

Anne was preceded in death by parents James and Mae Sweeney and siblings Robert, Dr. William, and Mary Claire, BVM.

Survived by brothers: John (Diane) Sweeney, of Bonita Springs, FL and Dr. James (Lois) Sweeney, of Bloomington, MN; sister-in-law Jackie Sweeney, of Mount Horeb, WI; nieces and nephews: Patricia (Donald) Kaesser, of West Des Moines, IA, Karen Hanner, of Maineville, OH, Kathleen Sweeney, of Eagan, MN, Dr. Michael (Natasha) Sweeney, of Cincinnati, OH, Dr’s. Dave (Teri) Sweeney, of Omaha, NE, Dan (Christine) Sweeney, of Edina, MN, and Patrick (Susan) Sweeney, of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Robert J. Steger

Ann Marie Bauck

Ann Marie Bauck, 84, of Dubuque, died Saturday, April 3, 2021 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Graveside services were held at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Ann Marie was born July 30, 1936 in Dubuque, the daughter of Louis F. and Myrtle I. (McGovern) Bauck.

She farmed in the Centralia area for over 43 years, and in 1988 moved to Farley and later moved to Windsor Park Apartments.

Ann Marie is survived by her cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences and memories many be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Ann’s loved ones would like to extend a special thanks to the people at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their care.

Loras R. Dunne

Loras R. Dunne, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 7^th, 2021 at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital from an illness and complications from COVID-19.

A private celebration of life will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Loras was born on September 11, 1947 in Clinton, IA the son of Thomas Joseph Dunne Jr. and Elizabeth (Hopson) Dunne. He married Judy (Bowman) Myatt on September 25, 2002 in Dubuque.

Loras worked for John Deere in Dubuque as a purchaser until his retirement.

Loras always knew a deal when he saw one, never passing one up and parting with few.

He is survived by his wife Judy; sons Steve (Sarah) Dunne and Sean Dunne both of Dubuque; daughters Sarah Huemoeller, of Madison, Wi, Annette Rowan, of Galena, IL, and Alison (Rob) Hohmann, of St. Donatus, IA. His mother Betty Dunne; brothers Dave and Ed Dunne; his sister Carolyn (Neil) Morehead along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Thomas; brothers Bob and Patrick; grandson Michael Stowers and granddaughter Kennedy Rowan.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Wendt Cancer Center and the staff at UPH Finley for all their care and kindness.

A. Ethel McCarthy

Alice Ethel McCarthy, age 97, formerly of 14911 Monastery Road in Peosta, Iowa passed away on Easter Sunday April 4, 2021 in Acworth, Georgia. She had just celebrated her birthday three days earlier with her family.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at a later date so all family and friends may gather to share the great times of a life well lived. Burial will be at Holy Family Catholic Church Cemetery, New Melleray in Peosta.

Ethel was born on April 1, 1924 in Wales, United Kingdom to Ernest and Frances (Everett) Jones.

During World War II she had the rare and golden opportunity to meet a very handsome Army soldier from Bernard, Iowa. And so, they fell in love and he promised her if she married him and moved to America, he would take her to his ranch. The ranch later became known as his father’s farm, the John and Mary Ann (Molony) McCarthy farm on Prairie Creek Road in Bernard. Ethel and Justin were married in Wales February 26, 1945 and were together for 58 years until his death on April 13, 2003.

Their first daughter Kathleen was born in Wales. So then the journey of 1946 began for our Iowa War Bride. Ethel was a very brave young woman at the age of 22. Imagine leaving your entire family and crossing the Atlantic Ocean alone on a ship for 10 days in rough waters with a one-year-old baby. When she arrived in New York the trains were on strike. Justin did not have the funds to fly her to Iowa and the New Melleray Monastery came to his rescue. She arrived in Bernard to suddenly realize how many people lived in the farmhouse. She left her family and quickly Justin’s siblings took her in with open arms and became her new American family. During the time they lived at the farm they had 2 more daughters, Christine and Deborah. Ethel decided she needed her own house and so Justin built her a home on the Monastery Road. Then they had one more daughter, Mollie. Ethel resided in the family home for 60 years. In 2015 she moved to Georgia so her daughters could help her.

After raising her four daughters, Ethel went to work at Cascade High School as a cook in the kitchen from 1977-1997. She maintained her friendship with co-workers and students all throughout the years.

Ethel’s additional exceptional achievement was raising her two grandchildren Tracey and Tom Kubik after their young mother passed away suddenly in 1980. Ethel was a person who just kept going and never gave up even in the most challenging times.

She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church since 1946 and now will finally come to rest there with Justin and Kathleen.

Ethel had many favorite things. She was a big Iowa Hawkeyes and Cubs fan, loved euchre, dessert, going to the beach in Florida, traveling to the Colorado mountains to visit Mollie, her special birthday on April Fools Day, drinking tea from a proper china teacup and of course Queen Elizabeth. She also had a very strong bond with her son-in-law Dale who was so very good to her.

Those left to honor Ethel’s memory include daughters Christine Rahn (Roger Nelson) of Georgia, Debby (Dale) Andersen of Georgia and Mollie McCarthy (Scott Thomas) of Colorado. Grandchildren include Tracey Kubik Bartoletta (Travis Kuntz) of Illinois, Robbie (Christy) Rahn of Georgia, Tom Kubik of Georgia, Julie (Bobby) Crawley of Georgia and David (Kathrin) Rahn of California. Great Grandchildren include Madison and Brandon Crawley of Georgia, Sofia and Jack Bartoletta of Illinois and Justin Rahn of Georgia. Sisters-in-law include Mary Miller and Donna (Ken) Kutsch of Dubuque, Iowa. Ethel is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews in Iowa, Wales and Australia.

She was preceded in death by her parents and Justin’s parents, husband Justin McCarthy, a daughter Kathleen McCarthy Kubik (Ken) and siblings Ernest (Elsie) Jones, Eileen (Vernon) Beale, Courtney (Joan) Jones all of Wales. Siblings-in-law include Ralph (Loretta) McCarthy, Marge (Phil) McDonald, Eleanor (Walt) Burds, James McCarthy, John McCarthy, Geraldine McCarthy and Joe Miller.

We are so very proud of our mother and her courage to keep going all these years. There was only one Ethel and she will never be forgotten! We are thankful for all our family, neighbors and friends in Iowa, Georgia, Wales and Australia for all the kindness they have shown Ethel over the years.

Condolences may be sent to 139 Ridgeview Trail SE, Cartersville, GA 30120. Memorials may be extended directly to Holy Family Catholic Church, 10204 Key West Dr., Dubuque, IA 52003.

The family is being assisted by Georgia Funeral Care and Cremation Services, Acworth, Ga., and Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory Dubuque, Iowa.

Gerald J. Steil

Gerald J. “Jerry” Steil, 91, LaMotte, IA, passed away Monday, April 5, 2021 at Manor Care in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, IA with Rev. James Chappell officiating. If you are unable to attend, a live stream will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Burial will follow at St. Theresa’s Cemetery.

Visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, April 12th from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. At 7:00 p.m. active and retired members of the Dubuque Fire Department will meet to perform the retirement of gear ceremony and the Four Fives.

The family requests that social distancing be followed, and masks be worn during the services.

Gerald John Steil was born July 24, 1929 in Asbury, IA to Clem and Mathilda (Behnke) Steil. At the age of 13, Jerry took on the responsibility of helping his mother care for his younger siblings upon the death of his father.

He married Gloria (Ernster) on August 22, 1953 at St Philomena Church in Asbury. Jerry and Gloria were married for 66 years until her death on August 1, 2020.

They lived in Asbury and he owned his own company, Steil Well Drilling, until 1965 when he became a firefighter for the City of Dubuque. In 1970, Jerry and Gloria bought a farm in LaMotte, IA and Jerry was both farmer and firefighter until he retired from the fire department in 1995. Jerry loved farming and only recently fully retired from it. He enjoyed spending time with his family especially picnics in the summer and fishing for the big catfish in his neighbor’s pond.

Jerry is survived by his 5 sons, Terry (Sue) of Key West, IA, Kevin (Karen) of LaMotte, IA, Dion of Benton, Wis., Keenan (Sue) and Darren (Jenny) both of Dubuque and his 8 grandchildren, Aaron (Aaron) Steil, Becky (Pedro) Crispin de Jesus, Sara (Rob) Goedken, Andrew (Abbie) Steil, Derek (Angel), Ryan and Emma Steil, Audra Steil and Jeremie and Carissa Oberbroeckling as well as 9 great grandchildren.

He is survived by his siblings Alvina Murphy, Jim (Jean) Steil, Vern (Elaine) Steil, Mary Ann Derouin and sister-in-law Jude Steil. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Deryl “Buddy” Ernster and Harry, Jr “Sonny” Ernster and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Evie (Albert) Beecher and Eleanor (Don) Lombardi, brothers Lenny Steil and Norm (Minnie) Steil, brothers-in-law Virgil Murphy and Don Derouin and sisters-in-law Gayelle (Roy) Blum and Margaret Ernster.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Manor Care (a special thank you to Sara, his granddaughter) and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care of our father and grandfather.

In lieu of flowers, a Gerald Steil Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com and memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque, IA 52003

Marilyn E. Hayes

Marilyn E. Hayes, 92, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, April 7, 2021, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marilyn will be 10:00 AM Monday, April 12, 2021, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor Thomas E. Toale as the Celebrant. Visitation will be before mass from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements.  If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Marilyn’s family. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Marilyn was born May 3, 1928, in Cassville, WI, the daughter of Harry and Lucille Brinkman Adrian. On May 7, 1949, she married Kenneth C. Hayes at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died October 23, 2008.

Marilyn and her husband owned and operated Ken Hayes Shoe & Repair.

She enjoyed dancing, eating out in restaurants, reading, walking, watching Fox News, and betting on dogs at the Greyhound Park.

Survivors include one son, Steven Hayes of Davenport; one daughter, Deborah Goar of Dubuque; and one granddaughter, Melissa (Christopher) Peck.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Mark Goar, one brother, Lawrence Adrian, and a brother in infancy.

The family thanks Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for taking special care of Marilyn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center, and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Marilyn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Joseph E. Donahue

Joseph E. “Joe” Donahue, age 88, of Dubuque, completed his earthly journey on April 6, 2021, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital.  To honor Joe’s life, his graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1111 Davis Street in Dubuque, where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joe’s family.

Joe was born on October 22, 1932, in Waukon Junction, Iowa, a son to Edward and Violet (Sawvell) Donahue.  Joe obtained his primary education in the Harper Valley Schools and spent his early years working at home and on neighboring farms until he went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  Upon returning home, Joe was blessed to meet his soul-mate, Elizabeth “Betty” Arthofer, and the two were united in marriage on January 28, 1956, at Holy Ghost Church.  Joe committed his working years for his family to John Deere, where he continually displayed the strong work ethic which he had developed from a young age.  In his free-time, Joe was best known for his coon hunting skills and dogs.  Always working to bring the best out of himself and his dogs, Joe still displays rows of trophies to help revisit those wonderful days gone by.  Joe also enjoyed stock car racing and spend many years following his son from racetrack to racetrack to cheer him on.  But, honestly, Joe is best known for being a devoted husband and father.  Loyal, kind, and generous are words which also easily and accurately describe our dear Joe.  We will miss his gentle spirit, grateful attitude, and effortless role-modeling he perfected so well.  Thank you, Joe, for simply being the best man you could be and for showing us that anything in this life is possible if we just put a little effort in ourselves.  We hope that your heavenly reunion has been the most joyful event you’ve ever experienced, and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joe include,

his son,
Roger Donahue;

his daughter-in-law,
Debbie Freking;

his grandchildren,
Trevor Donahue, Tanner Donahue, Mike McDonald, and Jennifer Donahue;

his great-grandchildren,
Jordan Donahue and Jayden Donahue;

his siblings,
Jim Donahue,
Jerry Donahue,
Marjorie (James) Trewnick,
Monica (James) Edgar,
Margaret (John) Elin,
Madonna Walsh,
Maureen (David) Graeber,
and Marilyn (Lyle) Kenney;

a special nephew, Dale;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Betty Donahue; 2 sons, Jim Donahue and Mike Donahue; and his siblings, Edward “Buzzy” Donahue, John Donahue, Mary (Merlin) Troendle, and Marcella (John) Palade.

Joe’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital, the E.R. Department, and St. Croix Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care of Joe, and his family.  We would also like to extend a most sincere thank you to our dear friend and neighbor, Jerome, for all of his care and support throughout these difficult days.  May God bless all of you for your generosity and kindness.

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

Thomas T. Tierney

Thomas T. Tierney, 74, of Dubuque, died Thursday, April 8, 2021, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Private Graveside Services will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 10:00 am at Linwood Cemetery Chapel. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 Honor Guard. We encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Thomas’s family.

Thomas was born October 30, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Paul and Eliner (Thomas) Tierney.
Thomas graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964 and then attended the University of Dubuque.

Thomas was a Christian, a Patriot and a U.S. Air Force Veteran.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.
Condolences sent to the family by visiting Thomas’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Donald J. Offermann

Donald J. Offermann, 82, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his daughters and son-in-law, on April 6, 2021, of metastatic cancer.

A rosary service will be held at 4:00 pm, Friday, April 9, 2021 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Don’s family. An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at the Cathedral of St. Raphael’s from 9:00 am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am with Msgr. Thomas Toale as the Celebrant and Msgr. Karl Glovik and Fr. Paul Otting as Co-Celebrants. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. Don will be cremated and buried next to his wife, Hazel, in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Cemetery in Dyersville at a later date. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Donald was born June 8, 1938, in Earlville, IA, the son of Art and Kathryn (Quint) Offermann.

He married Hazel Maiers on November 25, 1965 at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Dyersville, Iowa, she preceded him in death on September 5, 1998.

Don attended St. Joseph’s Grade School in Earlville and graduated from Xavier High School, Dyersville, in 1956. He graduated from Loras College in 1960. He attended Mt. St. Bernard Seminary, Dubuque, for two years. He taught at Xavier Grade School, Dyersville from 1962 to 1970. He got his Masters in Guidance Counseling from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska during Summers. He became a Counselor at Western Dubuque High School, Epworth, Iowa from 1970 until his retirement in 2000.

Don was a member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral Parish and World Wide Marriage Encounter. He and his wife Hazel, were the Sponsor Couple for engaged couples. He was director of CCD in Epworth and Dyersville. He was a member of Iowa State Education Association and The Iowa School Counselor Association. He was a 50 year member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters. Don became a staunch member of AA in June 2011.

Don enjoyed fishing and traveling after he retired. He enjoyed many cruises and vacations with his close friends of over 50 years: Father Fred Fangmann, Father Ken Gehling, Father Paul Otting, and Msgr. Karl Glovik, along with many card games of SMILE on your neighbor. He looked forward to his grandchildren spending a week individually for GrandpaCamp in Dubuque. While residing in Minnesota, Don enjoyed being near his children and grandchildren, and often attended their sporting and school events. He enjoyed the friendship of many of his fellow Seasons residents and staff. Don particularly enjoyed exercise classes, walking club and Wii bowling. In his final days, Don was incredibly touched by the messages he received from friends, colleagues and former students. Don was pleased that he had the opportunity to touch so many lives.

Survivors include two daughters, Ann Marie Offermann and her husband, Boyd Brown of Apple Valley, MN, and Mary Kay Offermann of Eagan, MN; Grandchildren, Oliver Brown, Elliot Brown, Amelia Brown, Gabrielle Offermann; a brother, Laverne (Mary Jane) Offermann; brother-in-law, Marv (Vicki) Maiers; and nieces and nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Kathryn Offermann; his wife, Hazel Offermann; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Elmer and Mary Jane Maiers; and sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Al Their.

The family would like to thank the residents and staff of Ecumen Seasons and the staff of Ecumen Hospice for their incredible love and care of Don.

Marilyn B. Spates

Marilyn B. Spates, 88, of Dubuque, passed away April 5th, 2021 at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Des Moines, Iowa due to declining health.

Friends may greet the family from 4:00-7:00PM on Sunday, April 11th, 2021 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. A prayer service will take place at 7:00PM.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30AM Monday, April 12th, 2021 at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page.  Masks are required at the funeral home and church.  Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Marilyn was born July 16th, 1932 in Key West, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Catherine Meyer. Even as her memory faded in recent years, she always spoke fondly of her years on the farm and singing and making music with relatives and neighbors as a favorite family pastime.  She was educated at St. Joseph in Key West and St. Columbkille High School in Dubuque.

She married Thomas V. Spates on July 11th, 1964 at Church of the Nativity. He preceded her in death on February 9th, 2016.

Most of Marilyn’s career was spent working at Loras College where she developed and directed the Word Processing Center.  Her many years of service at Loras provided her children with college educations.

Marilyn is survived by a daughter, Julie (Mark) Merfeld of Des Moines and their children, Emily, Matthew, Thomas, and Michael; a son, Stephen (Daniel) Spates M.D. of New York City and their children, Thomas “T.J.” and Matthew; sister Loretta Meyer, in-laws Carol Becker, Frank and Kathy Langkamp and Michael and Linda Spates all of the Dubuque area as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Harold and Francis “Bud” Meyer and Sister Mary Madonna Meyer of the Presentation Sisters, in-laws Dorothy Meyer, Norma Meyer and Marvin Becker as well as several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was a devout Catholic throughout all of her life.  She will be remembered most as a kind and loving person.  She exemplified to her children and grandchildren the values we strive to carry forward.  Perhaps her greatest joy in life was spending time with her six grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Bishop Drumm Guild to honor the excellent care provided to our mother in the final stage of her life.

Leslie Blitgen II

Leslie “Nick” Blitgen II, 72, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, April 07, 2021 at Mercy One in Dubuque.  Celebration of Life with burial in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery will be at a later date.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Leslie was born June 8, 198, the son of Leslie “Mooty” and Eugenia “Babe” (O’Neil) Blitgen.  He was a past member of the Bellevue Volunteer Fire Department and Bellevue JC’s.  Nick enjoyed bowling, an avid reader, muscle cars, and going to the casino.   He worked for the Milwaukee Railroad, which became the Canadian Railroad until his retirement.  Nick had a special place in his heart for his nephew, Tom whom he enjoyed spending time with bowling. Nick will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his siblings, Mary Muhlenhaupt , William “Bill” Blitgen, Joe (Kathy) Blitgen, , Vivian “Ditty” Quinn, and Jean “GiGi” (Bob) Reeg; nieces and nephews, Michael, Lynn, Lesley, Jessica, Gina, Tom, Matt, Scott, Bridget, Lisa, and Katie; and numerous other extended relatives.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother in-law, Dave Muhlenhaupt.

Condolences may be mail to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home 100 N. 6th St.  Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Leslie “Nick” Blitgen Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at hachmannfuneralhome.com