Obituaries Archive

Charlotte M. Scharpf

Charlotte M. Scharpf, 89 of Galena, IL passed away unexpectedly but peacefully with her children at her side on Sunday, January 30, 2022, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. Funeral service will be 11 AM, Friday, February 4, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Thursday, February 3, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Pilot Knob Cemetery, rural Galena.

She was born July 3, 1932, at her family home in Galena, the daughter of Walter and Elsie (Young) Lewis. Charlotte graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1949. She was united in marriage to the love of her life Clarence Scharpf Sr. on September 28, 1950, in Galena. He preceded her in death on January 15, 1997.

Charlotte enjoyed bingo, gambling, playing games with her kids and grandkids. She was fondly known as the queen of Ms. Pacman and Aggravation. Charlotte had many jobs bartending and was a past owner of the Gold Room. She enjoyed her time working at Sibbing’s jewelry in Dubuque, IA. Charlotte spent all her precious moments with her family and will be greatly missed by them all.

She is survived by her six children, Clarence Jr. (Emma) Scharpf, Janice (Wayne) Wasmund, Charlene Scharpf, Gary (Vickie) Scharpf and Glen (Michelle) Scharpf, all of Galena and James (Tammy) Scharpf of Crystal Lake IL, twenty-six grandchildren, fifty-two great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren with four great-great-grandchildren on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two grandsons, Matthew McKinney and Martin Santos, her siblings, Chester, James, Mary, and Ruth.

The family wants to thank the caring staff at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community, she loved you all. Charlotte often said they were the most wonderful people. A special thank you goes out to her nurse Angie; we do not know what we would have done without you.

Online condolences maybe left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Dale F. Maas

Dale Francis Maas, 75, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa, on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Dale will be 11:30 am Thursday, February 3, 2022, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dale was born on December 15, 1946, son of Leo and Rosemary (McCraney) Maas.

He attended school at St. Anthony’s, Washington Junior High and graduated from Senior High School in 1965.

He met Mary Jane Smith in 1975 and they were united in marriage on September 11, 1976 at the Decorah Lutheran Church, Decorah, Iowa.  This past year marked 45 years of marriage.  Dale has two sons from a previous marriage: Mark (Lori) and Matthew (Carrie).  Dale and Mary Jane have two children: Luke (Shelby) and Alison (Joe) Hegland. He has seven grandchildren: Macy & Mavrick Maas; Sophia, Claire & Atticus Hegland; and Ellington & Weston Maas.  His wife, children and grandchildren are the loves of his life.

Dale’s working career began as an apprentice electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.  After completion of 576 hours of schooling and 8,000 hours of on the job training, he became a journeyman electrician in 1971.  He is incredibly proud to have been a member of I.B.E.W. Local 704 for 53 years.  In his 42 years of active work he served on the Executive Board, Apprentice Committee, Health & Welfare and Pension Committees.

Dale has been an active member of St. Peter Lutheran Church since 1976.

In addition to spending time with his family, Dale loved camping with his family and friends.  He especially loved road trips and spending time exploring 31 National Parks including those in Hawaii and Alaska.  Dale enjoyed woodworking, listening to all genres of music and spending his retirement years at Sunflower Resort in Surprise, Arizona during the winter.

He is survived by his brother John (Peg), his sister Ann (Tim) Lester and Diane (Phil) Becker, two sisters-in-law Phyllis Crump and Betty (Alan) Martins and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Paul, his brothers-in-law Don Crump and Don Smith, his niece Melanie Kolaas and his in-laws Clarence and Alice Smith.

We would like to thank Dr. Charles Acher, Dr. Thomas Teelin and Dr. Ann Chodara  from the University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics, Dr. Brian Moran at Grand River Medical Group, Finley Wound Clinic,  Finley Therapy and Mercy Hospital for all the care they gave Dale.   Thank you to all our relatives and friends for their love and prayers during this difficult time.

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 Dale’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Keith B. Woodyard

Keith B. Woodyard, age 68, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 26, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque.  To honor Keith’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 5, 2022, from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m., at the Dog House Lounge, 1646 Asbury Road in Dubuque.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Keith’s family.

Keith was born on March 20, 1953, in Columbus, OH, a son to E. F. ”Woody” and Betty (Riley) Woodyard.  He was united in marriage to Vicki Felton for 25 years and the couple was blessed with 2 sons.  Keith provided for his family through the years he spent at Flexsteel as a purchasing manager, and more recently has been investing his working hours at the Hy’Vee Gas Station on Dodge St.  Keith was all about spending time with family and friends as much as possible.  His story telling skills were legendary and his ability to be the life of the party without strenuous efforts was always on display.  He enjoyed hunting in his earlier years, along with coaching, traveling, and perfecting his amazing photography skills with his sons and grandsons on their hockey teams.  Keith never passed up the opportunity to get his motorcycle out on the road, but his favorites hobbies were definitely spending the day on the golf course, and hanging out with his friends at the Dog House and Eichman’s.  Keith was not only a generous and good-hearted man, but his laid-back and easy-going attitude towards life was carried proudly through each and every day as well.  Keith leaves behind countless memories of a man who embraced life to the fullest and we hope to find peace from this tragic loss within them.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Keith include,

his ex-wife and best friend,
Victoria “Vicki” Woodyard, Dubuque, IA;

his 2 sons,
Kyle Woodyard,
and Corey Woodyard, both of Dubuque, IA;

his 3 grandsons,
Collin, Alexander, and Kaleb Woodyard;

his siblings,
Michael (Jeanne) Woodyard, Dubuque, IA,
and Christina (Jeff) Burrichter, Cascade, IA;

his mother-in-law,
Georgeann “Rusty” Felton, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents and his father-in-law, Joseph Felton.

Keith’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Duane G. Drish

Duane G. Drish, 54 of Dubuque passed away January 30, 2022. There will be no public services.

Duane was born in Dubuque on September 30, 1967, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Ron and Jan Drish. Duane graduated from Dubuque Senior High school in 1986. Duane was a great athlete participating in football and track.  He also attended St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. Much of his career was in sales in Dubuque and the surrounding area. Duane liked to travel and golf in his earlier years. Duane was a people person, he always enjoyed being with friends and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

He is survived by his son Tanner and daughter Morgan. Four brothers; Dennis (Esther), Dave (Barb), Dan (Carolyn) and Doug Drish and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jan and Ron Drish.

A heartfelt thank you for the grace, help and kindness shown by his lifelong friends; Doug K, Bob (Fitzy), Dave (Tommy) and Mike (Spud), TJ and Molly. They visited Duane almost daily and made sure he was never alone. Also the earth angels that cared for Duane at Hospice of Dubuque especially Lisa and nurse Kristen. And Anne and the staff at Sunnycrest Manor.

Daryl W. Tetterton

Elmer C. May

Elmer Clarence May “passed” to the Arms of Jesus Christ on Sunday, January 23, 2022 in Williamsburg, VA.

Elmer Clarence, the fourth of five children born to Elmer Conrad May and Melita Mary Carney, was born on July 14, 1933 in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was an Athlete, Author, Soldier, Scholar, Loving Husband, and Devoted Father and Grandfather. He graduated with honors from Loras Academy, Dubuque, Iowa in 1951, after competing in Football, Basketball, and Track.

He graduated from Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa with a Bachelor of Science in 1956 as a two major sport athlete, Football and Wrestling. He graduated from Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa in 1970 with a Master’s Degree and finished his academic career with a Doctorate Degree, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D) in 1995 at George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.

Elmer served in the United States Army, Field Artillery for thirty years from 1956 to 1986, retiring as a Colonel. He commanded in Germany, Viet Nam, and the United States, mostly in Airborne Units. He also served as a Professor at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY in the Departments of Military Art and Engineering and Department of History from 1967 to 1970, where he authored a textbook, “The Art of Ancient Warfare.” He finished his Military Career at the National War College, Fort McNair as a Professor in the Department of Military Strategy and was a Ranger and Master Parachutist. Elmer received numerous Military Awards including: Defense Superior Service Medal (DSSM) with One Oak Leaf Cluster; Legion of Merit (LOM) with One Oak Leaf Cluster; Bronze Star Medal (BSM) with One Oak Leaf Cluster; Air Medal (AM) with One Oak Leaf Cluster; Meritorious Service Medal (MSM); Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) with One Oak Leaf Cluster; and the Vietnamese Silver Star (VNSS). He served in Viet Nam twice, 1965-1966 and 1970-1971.

After retiring from active service, he performed in two firms, BDM and RPI where he wrote and executed Nuclear and Chemical Exercises, and was responsible for Counter Terrorism Activities in 120 cities in the United States. While working for Arlington County Fire Department, he wrote the after action report for the airplane that crashed into the Pentagon on 9/11/2001. In retirement at Williamsburg, Virginia he was a member of the Knights of Columbus (K of C), the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), and attended Christopher Wren classes at William and Mary College.

Elmer was preceded in death by his mother (Melita) and father (Elmer); three older sisters Letty (Melita) Kunnert, Mary Patterson, and Alberta (Boody) Taylor Brown; younger brother Frederick; and grandson, Adam Andrew.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Sandy May; four children, Mark, Stacey, Gary (Lisa) and Susan (Eric); nine grandchildren Ashley, Emily, Ryan, Aimee, Natalie, Dillon, Jacob, Zachary and Zoey; and two great-grandchildren Sawyer and Adam.

A memorial to Sandy and Elmer is present in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Dubuque, Iowa.

A viewing will be held on Friday, Feb. 4th from 5pm – 7pm at the Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. A funeral mass and celebration of Elmer’s life will take place on Saturday, Feb. 5^th at 2pm at St. Bede Catholic Church, 3686 lronbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185. A reception at the church will follow the ceremony. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Knights of Columbus, PO Box 6394, Williamsburg, VA  23188-5222 (WWW.KOFC6828.ORG)

Online condolences may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.

Julie J. Habel

Julie J. Habel, 84 of Luxemburg, Iowa, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2022 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 – 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 1 , 2022 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Luxemburg, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Noah Diehm will officiate. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Julie was born March 17, 1937 to Alex and Germaine (Timmer) Meyers.  She grew up on their farm outside of Luxemburg.  After marrying Kenny Habel on August 1, 1962, she lived on a farm between Holy Cross and Balltown.  She later built a log home north of Luxemberg and resided there until 2019, when she moved to River Bend Retirement Community in Cascade and later into Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Julie was an award-winning photographer who traveled the world, including Australia, Africa, New Zealand, Japan, the Galapagos Islands, Switzerland, and Indonesia, as well staying with a tribe in the Amazon.  Her work has appeared in “County,” “Our Iowa,” “Reminisce” “Farm and Ranch Living” and the books “Goodbye Boise…Hello Alaska” and “The Good Land-Farm Families Remember.”

Julie also provided daycare services in Guttenberg, gave photo presentations at nursing homes, and took wedding and graduation photos. She was head of the Dubuque County Fair Open Class Photography.  She enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and going to auctions.

Survivors include her children:  Denise Habel of Golden Valley MN, Joseph (Dawn) Habel of Petersburg, and Jaime (Kris) Habel of Dubuque; grandchildren: Alex Habel, Austin Habel, Jenn Habel; and two great-grandchildren: Kiana and Kendra.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother, Harold Meyers, sister-in-law, Judy Meyers, brother-in-law, Ronald Habel, and nephew, Donald Meyers.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Mary M. Heim

Mary Margaret (Mag) Heim of East Dubuque, IL passed away on January 27, 2022 at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be on Monday, January 31, 2022 from 9 am to 10:15 am at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 am Monday.  Facemasks are required per CDC and state guidelines.  Private burial service will be at the East Dubuque Cemetery. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.  The Funeral Mass will be live-streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page.

Mary was born on January 24, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Albert and Mary (Jackoniski) Sendt.  She was united in marriage to Robert Heim on April 28, 1962 at St. Mary Church, in East Dubuque.

She lovingly raised her children from home when they were younger and later held several jobs including ones at Merri-Mac (#326) and St. Dominic Villa.

Besides taking care of her family, Mary enjoyed playing bingo, cheering the Chicago Cubs on to victory, cooking family dinner, baking delicious desserts, and spending time with family and friends.

Those left to cherish her memory include:  Her husband, Bob; her four children Maureen, Scott (Tammy), Phil (Audra), and Joe (Jen); grandchildren, Logan, Lexi, Sophie, Madaline and Elizabeth Heim, Adam (Sara) and Mollie Roth; great-grandchildren, Cora, Ethan, Cooper, Aubrie, Karrigan and Deagan. As well as her sister Ellen (Paul) Largent; and in-laws Marilyn Sendt, Charlene Sendt, Daniel Heim, Maxine Heim, and Gloria Wallenhorst.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Darrell, Duane and Delbert; in-laws, Frank & Regina Heim, Clarence (Billie Jean), Kenneth (Irma), Edward (Eleanor), Richard (Marieta), John, Timothy, Betty (Lee) Jewett, Vivian (Carl) Waechter, Diane Weis and Betty Leppert; beloved nephews Albie and James; and niece Starr.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jessica and Stacy, caregiver Heather and Fr. Dennis Vargas for the compassionate care shown to Mary during her illness.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

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

Gary C. Bellings Sr.

Gary Charles Bellings Sr, 70, of Dubuque peacefully passed away on January 25, 2022, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will be at a later date in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Gary was born on August 28, 1951, in Dubuque Iowa to Joye and Eileen (Rapp) Bellings. Gary was both a humorous and devoted man.

After graduating he joined the Marines and proudly served his Country in Vietnam – Oorah. Upon returning to Iowa, he purchased a Rapp family home where he still proudly lived. He retired in 2010 after working over 20 years at Georgia Pacific.

He will be remembered for his endless sense of humor, his creative use of swear words, his unfailing work ethic, his endless love for snacks and naps, his contagious laugh, his devotion to helping others, and his unconditional love and commitment to his children.

In his later years, when cancer stole his strength, it also gave him a softness we treasured. During this time, dad taught us patience and he allowed us to show him a small measure of what he had showed us, which was allowing us to help him as he had done for us for so long.

His memory will be cherished by his son Gary Bellings and his Husband Chris. His daughter Sarah Bellings and her partner May, and his grandsons Anthony, Remington, and Wyatt. Many brothers, sisters, cousins, neices, nephews, and friends.

He is preceeded in death by his wife and soul mate Roxanne Bellings; his parents Joye and Eileen Bellings; his sister Kathy and his brother Mark.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and the Emergency room and 4th floor staff of Finley Hospital for helping Gary remain comfortable in his passing.

Catherine M. Brickley

Catherine M. Brickley, 60, of Sherrill, passed away Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

Services will be private. Egelhof, Siegert, & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Catherine was born November 12, 1961 in California, the daughter of William James and Mary Patricia (Streeter) Brickley.

Catherine was a true “California Girl”, who loved the ocean, spending time in the sunshine, and collecting seashells. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed being surrounded by her family. Being a mom was very important to her, and she was very proud of her children and grandchildren. Catherine enjoyed spending time on the river, shopping, music, and being outdoors. She was a devoted pet mom, and enjoyed taking care of her animals. Catherine will be deeply missed by all of her kids.

Catherine is survived by her children, Larae (Josh) Clemen, of Dubuque, Michelle Bowers, of Boulder, CO, Christine (Christopher) Smith of Marengo, IA, Wesley Bowers, of Boulder, CO, Dylan Link of Dubuque, and Loryn and Kyle Link, both of Sherrill; her grandchildren, Hannah and Henry Smith (due in April); her longtime partner, Loras Link, of Sherrill; and her siblings, Carol Churchill, John (Linda) Brickley, and Jeannie (Mickey) Lumetta, all of California.

Catherine has joined her parents, her grandparents, and her brother Jeff, in Heaven.

Kenneth R. Beck

Kenneth R. “Kenny” Beck, age 84, of Dubuque, passed away at 11:20 a.m., on Monday, January 24, 2022, at Crestridge Care Facility.  In keeping with Kenny’s wishes there will not be a public service.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Kenny was born on July 13, 1937, in Brooklyn, Iowa, son of Ralph E. and Alice M. (Dost) Beck.

Kenny was united in marriage to Judy Baker on June 3, 1967, in Dubuque.  The two have been blessed with 54 wonderful years of marriage.  Kenny was always a hard worker and devoted his career to the Bradley Iron Works for 32 years where he retired as a Foreman.  In his free time, Kenny enjoyed traveling, especially to Seattle, Arizona and Texas, but also liked to get in the car and take a day trip.  He was a talented woodworker who made his own tools and created many beautiful pieces for his family and friends.  Furniture and wooden toys were his specialty.  Kenny also liked playing cards and occasionally trying his luck at the casino.  Spending time with his family was always at the top of Kenny’s priority list.  He especially loved babysitting the grandchildren.

Those left to cherish Kenny’s memory include

his loving wife,
Judy Beck, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Daryl Beck, Dubuque, IA
and Charles (Cindy) Carden, Johnson City, TN;

8 grandchildren,
Jessica (Joey) Parr, Courtney Carden, Kristopher Beck, Harley (Lisa) Beck, Jennifer Beck, Cody Carden, Casey Beck and Rachel Beck;

and 4 great-grandchildren,
Paislee, Aspen, Charlie, Ayla and 1 more on the way in June.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Debra Lyles; a sister, Ruth Pierce; and 4 brothers, Donald, Jerry, Harold and Robert Beck.

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

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

Sharon J. Belden

Sharon J. Belden, age 53, of Elkader, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 22, 2022, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sharon’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, from 1:00-5:00 p.m., at the Garnavillo Community Center, 106 W. Niagara St.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sharon’s family.

Sharon was born on March 28, 1968, in Fairfield, IA, a beautiful daughter to Ann Sawvell.  She was a proud graduate of the Bellevue Community High School, Class of ’87.  Sharon eventually found the love of her life, Jay Belden, and on October 24, 1996, they were united in marriage in Strawberry Point.  They have been blessed with 25 years together and one daughter.  Sharon spent her working hours in a few different places, but her favorite was surely the time she was able to spend with her friends and coworkers at Norbys Farm Fleet.  She was a very outgoing and social butterfly who truly enjoyed visiting with others.  Sharon had a perpetual smile on her face and her selfless nature was always on display when she found any opportunity to help someone.  She carried with her a strong work ethic and never surrendered to complaining no matter what life would throw at her.

In her free-time, Sharon could easily be found meticulously tending to her flower gardens, joining family and friends for a little time around the dinner table, showing off and honing her skills on the pool table, or even spoiling her grand-puppies.  She possessed a heart of gold and only desired to be the bright spot in everyone’s day around her.  Sharon’s love and commitment for her family and friends never failed and the legacy she leaves behind will never be forgotten.  Our hearts are beyond broken to think that we’ve shared our last lovely conversation with her for now, but we find peace in the hope that we will see her again one day and that the Lord will keep her safe until that time arrives.  Thank you, Sharon, for being just the perfect amount of love and light that the world needed while you walked among us.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sharon include her loving husband, Jay Belden, Elkader, IA; her adored daughter, Holly (Cordel) Belden-Bries, Garnavillo, IA; her mother, Ann Sawvell, Dubuque, IA; her mother-in-law, Pat Belden, Elkader, IA; her brother, Allan Sawvell, Bellevue, IA; her sisters-in-law, Barb (Gary) Westhoff, Guttenberg, IA, and Betty (Jeff Harbaugh) Belden, Garber, IA; her grand-puppies, Gracie and Ace; along with numerous extended family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Sharon was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Russ Belden; her sister-in-law, Theresa Sawvell; her niece, Shari Harbaugh; and a nephew, Nick Westhoff.

Sharon’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Frank W. Holland

Frank W. Holland, 61, of Galena passed away Monday, January 24, 2022, at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. A Celebration of Life will begin at Noon, Sunday, January 30, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena with military honors presented by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. Friends may gather after 11 AM until the time of the service. Burial will be at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.

He was born March 17, 1960, in Dubuque, the son of Lawrence and Frances (Henkel) Holland. Frank graduated from Galena High School and completed continuing education coursework while in the military. The United States Marine Corps, with the promises of career training, world travel, and an even larger family of strong moral brothers and sisters, found an eager recruit in Frank. He joined in delayed entry and went to boot camp between junior and senior years of high school. Sergeant Frank Holland was a member of The Tip of the Spear and served in Taipei, Hawaii, and elsewhere. He served faithfully from June 16, 1978, until his honorable discharge on July 13, 1989. Frank was employed at Lemfco Foundry after leaving the service and worked there until retiring last year. He took pride in his ability to do a job that was hot, dirty, and physically difficult. Frank’s hobbies included graphic novels, fantasy fiction, and spending time with family.

He is survived by his siblings, Barbara Outcalt, Linda (Tom) Russell, Elizabeth (Pat) Hess, Mary Rose Schmidt, Carol Holland, Paul (Marcia) Holland, Larry (Tammie) Holland, and Cathy (Mark) Helling, and dozens of nieces and nephews.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Lorraine, Rose Mary, and Susan, two brothers, William and Harold, several nieces, nephews, and Angel Baby nieces and nephews including a namesake great-nephew – Wesley Kennedy.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Ruth M. Esser Recker

Ruth M. Esser Recker, 80, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 25, 2022, peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm Sunday, January 30, 2022, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ruth will be 10:30 am Monday, January 31, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Ruth was born February 1, 1941, in Dubuque, the daughter of Leroy and Emma (Weiser) Stoffel. She attended school at Holy Ghost and St. Joseph’s Academy. She married Kenneth Esser on February 15, 1958, in Dubuque. The house they built together was a labor a love, and they raised their five children there. Ken died March 22, 1992.

On November 14, 1997, she married Donald Recker in Dyersville, IA.

Ruth retired from Dubuque County Courthouse.  She was a life-long member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church and volunteered extensively for the parish. She loved time spent with family and being surrounded by the beauty of nature.  Ruth enjoyed camping, bass fishing, and dancing with Don.

Survivors include her husband, Don; five children, Vicki (Paul) Breitbach of Dubuque, Jim (Aggie) Esser of Dubuque, Julie (Kevin) Hoffmann of Dubuque, Steve (Lori) Esser of Dubuque, and Lori Posey of Coralville, IA; ten grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Marge Dyga, and Pat Parr; and Don’s 5 children and 11 grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Ken, her parents, two brothers, two sisters, and one great-grandson, Evan.

The family extends a sincere thank you to all of Ruth’s caregivers.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Ruth’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kenneth R. Horch

Kenneth R. “Kenny” Horch, age 85, of Dubuque and formerly of Zwingle, passed away peacefully at 9:00 a.m., on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, surrounded by his loving friends.  To celebrate Kenny’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Kenny was born on Leap Day, February 29, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Fred and Marcella (Brede) Horch.

Kenny was united in marriage to Margaret “Peggy” Reardon in May of 1973.  They would be blessed with almost 23 wonderful years of marriage before Peggy passed away on April 9, 1996.  Kenny was raised with a strong work ethic.  He put those values to good use with Farley & Loetscher for 10 years, Celotex for 12 years and lastly with Flexsteel for 13 years until his retirement.  Even after his retirement, he worked hard around his property in Zwingle for several years cutting all of his own firewood.  He truly loved fishing on the Mississippi, being outdoors and his lawn was always meticulously cared for.  Kenny was a kind and gentle soul who was always there to help anyone who needed him.  His faith was a very important part of his life and he was a member of St. Mary’s Church until it’s closing when he joined St. Patrick’s Church.  Kenny will be greatly missed, but we know that he is now resting peacefully, free of the health challenges he has battled so gracefully these past years.

Those left to cherish Kenny’s memory include

his companion of 22 years and her family,
Janet Entringer, Dubuque, IA;

his “special girl”,
Londyn;

a step-son and several nieces and nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Margaret “Peggy” Horch; a sister, Carol (James) Sutter; 2 brothers, Richard Horch and Fred (Betty) Horch; and 3 step-sons.

Kenny’s friends would like to thank the outstanding nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa, Jenni and Stacy, for all of the care and support they have provided these past weeks.

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

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