Obituaries Archive

Elvira A. Garrett

Elvira “Vi” Antonette Garrett, 96, of Asbury, Iowa passed peacefully on Saturday, September 25^, 2021 at Terrace Glen Village in Marion, IA. Visitaion will be from 9:00 am to 10:30 am Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Resurrection Church, 4300 Asbury Road, Dubuque IA. Followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am.  Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Asbury, IA.

Vi was born on May 27, 1925 in Galena, Illinois, the daughter of Ben and Emma (Holland) Knobbe.

Vi attended St Mary’s Grade School and graduated from Galena High School. She first worked at Savanna Army Depot, then Dubuque John Deere Tractor Works.

On May 29, 1948 she married William Ames Garrett at St. Patrick’s Church, Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on June 17, 2005.

She thoroughly enjoyed reading, gardening, canning, cooking and quilting.  In addition she enjoyed working with Holy Trinity Church and School and her many volunteer activities. She spent a lifetime being around her family and extended family cooking, sharing and enjoying comradery until her passing.

Vi will be greatly missed by her two children; Robert (Rhonda) Garrett of Wausau, WI, Patricia (Kris) Koelker of Marion, IA and four grandchildren: Corey (Hannah Westbrook) Garrett of Denver CO, Caitlin Garrett of Minneapolis, MN, Kelsey (Ben) Struik of Marion, IA and Lauren Koelker of Madison, WI.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Maryann (Clarence) Seitz of Asbury, IA and many nieces and nephews.

Vi was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers and six sisters including; Orville Knobbe, Irene (Willey) Ganshirt, Harry (Vi) Knobbe, Helen (Ted) Kendrick, Ethel (Ben) Troy, Cecelia (Walter) Wodynski, Alice (Archie) Jackson, Florence (Bill) Dimke.

The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.  Memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

The family would like to extend a special thank you the staff of Mercy Hospice Team of Cedar Rapids Iowa for their compassionate care.

Perly L. Reeg

Perly L. Reeg, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly of Bellevue, passed away Monday, September 27, 2021, at ManorCare Health Services – Dubuque. Visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, October 2, from 9-11, with an 11 am service led by Holy Ghost Deacon David Roth at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, Dubuque. Burial will be at Mt Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque with full Military Honors accorded by the Bellevue American Legion Post #273.

Perly was born on August 7, 1932, in Bellevue, to William and Edna (Ernst) Reeg. He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea following the war rebuilding infrastructure. He married Kathleen Regan on June 25, 1960, at St. Joseph’s Church in Rickardsville. He was a machinist at John Deere Dubuque Works, retiring after 33 years. He was proud of his role as UAW union steward, lead machinist, and the creativity awards he received during his time there. He and Kathleen (Kay) enjoyed bowling leagues, playing Euchre with friends and family, and hosting parties. Perly and Kay enjoyed taking their six children camping and fishing. He and Kay continued to travel through retirement, visiting their adult children around the country, often with grandchildren in tow. Perly appreciated spending time on his family’s farms by helping during the harvest. He was a jack of all trades and was very talented in construction, building their family home and later helping on his kid’s homes. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and they loved his unique chuckle and the wonderful fort, clubhouse, and treehouse he built for them.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen; children Jackie Reeg of Fort Collins, CO, Patricia Noble of Viroqua, WI, Thomas (Mary) Reeg of Dubuque, and Kevin (Ana) Reeg of Walnut Creek, CA; 14 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; brother LeRoy (Jeanne) Reeg; and sister Arlene (Cletus) Victor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers William, Robert, Carlyle (his twin), and Edwin; sister Linda (Norbert) Lampe; and daughters Julie Palmer and Karen Baltierra.

Perly’s family would like to thank the staff at ManorCare and Hospice of Dubuque for their caring and attentive care of him and his family.

Donald J. Nauman

Donald J. Nauman, 87, of Asbury, died Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Monday, October 4, 2021 at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Don will be 11:00 am Monday, October 4, 2021, at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church with Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant. Burial will be in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.

Donald was born August 18, 1934, in Sherrill, IA, the son of Alphonse and Selma Harvey Nauman. Don graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1952. On April 3, 1956, he married Charlene Ann Freiburger at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill.

He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works from 1958 until his retirement in 1988. After retirement, Don became manager of the Dubuque Trolley Co. and also drove a school bus for Dubuque Community Schools until 1999.  Don and Charlene purchased the Trolley company in 1992 and owned it until 2007. Also a farmer, he and Charlene purchased a small farm in October of 1958 where they lived and farmed until April 3, 2016.

He was an active member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, where he served on the parish council and was active with the church renovation project. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus Council #5513, and UAW Local 94 retirees. Don and Charlene enjoyed square dancing and went to many state conventions and four national conventions. Together, he and Charlene also held many state offices and were in charge of the 1988 State convention in Dubuque. He loved sports, especially baseball, and coached little league baseball for 10 years and umpired for several leagues for eight years.

Survivors include his wife, Charlene Ann Nauman of Asbury; four children, Sheila (Paul) Todd of Orlando, FL, Nicholas (Lori) Nauman of Bellevue, IA, Brian (Sherry) Nauman of Eldridge, IA, and Marilyn (Jim) Kerkhove of Omaha, NE; five grandchildren, Andrea, Katelyn, Bradley, Emily, and Rynn; and six great-grandchildren, Michael, Isabelle, Bobby, Anna, Ileen, and Lorene, and one more on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father and mother-in law, Ray and Hilda Freiburger, three brothers, Albert, Reginald and Cletus Nauman, and three sisters-in-law, Ruth, LaVera, and Jean Nauman.

A memorial has been established for SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill.

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 Don’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Frederick A. Westmark

Frederick Aurthur Westmark, 75, formerly of Dyersville passed away Sunday, September 19, 2021.

Fred was born on May 8, 1946 in Dyersville, Iowa, the son Cleo and Loretta (Kluesner) Westmark.

Survivors include his sister: Mary Bockenstedt of Dubuque, nieces & nephews: Paul (Cathy) Bockenstedt of Eden Prairie, MN, Ann (Andy) Rettenmeier of Dubuque, great niece & nephew, Lara Bockenstedt, Daniel Bockenstedt, James Rettenmeier, Peter Rettenmeier, in-laws: Toyoko Westmark of Dyersville, and cousin, Judy Henke of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Paul Westmark, Helen Westmark, nephew, Daniel Bockenstedt, brother-in-law: Walter Bockenstedt, uncle, Art and Wilma Westmark.

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.

Karen L. Specht

Karen L. Specht, 83, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, September 27, 2021, at Crestridge Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, October 4, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Karen Lee Morehead was born on April 23, 1938 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Blaire and Marcene (Bollinger) Morehead.  She was a 1956 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then attended AIC in Davenport.  She married Larry Specht on March 16, 1958 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on February 9, 2013.

While in high school Karen was a lifeguard and swim instructor.  She then worked at Jackson State Bank in Maquoketa and later as a checker at Skeffington’s Jack and Jill.  She retired after 25 years of service as a 911 dispatcher with the Maquoketa Police Department and as secretary for the Drug Task Force.

Karen was an avid bowler in her younger years.  She enjoyed crafts, going to casinos, auctions, and attending sporting events, especially with her children and grandchildren.  Additionally, she was an avid supporter of Maquoketa High School athletics and events.  She was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Scott Specht of Maquoketa, IA, Chad (Vickie) Specht of Maquoketa, IA, and Stacy (Kevin) Owen of Maquoketa, IA; 6 grandchildren, Cody, Brian, Nathan, Emily, Carter and Toby; 2 step-grandchildren, Gentry and Gatlin Owen; and brothers, Leonard (Mary Jane) Morehead of Fort Myers, FL, and Terry (Tanya) Morehead of Seabeck, WA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Larry, and a sister Shelley Tharp.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Karen L. Specht memorial fund has been established.

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

Elizabeth A. Reeg

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Reeg, 74, of DeWitt, IA passed away on September 26, 2021, in Davenport, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 1, 2021, at Holy Family Church, New Melleray with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 30th, 2021, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Betty (McCarthy) Reeg was born October 13, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa.  She attended 8 years of grade school at Table Mound Township with perfect attendance.  Betty continued to Dubuque Wahlert High School where she excelled in academics and art.  She acted in numerous plays and was a cheerleader for the football team.  She graduated in May 1964 and went on to St. Anthony’s School of Nursing in Rock Island.  In 1967 she graduated as a registered nurse.  During and following her time at St. Anthony’s she worked as an aid at the Kahl Home in Davenport and at St. Anthony’s hospital in Rock Island in the cardiac care and intensive care unit.

Betty met Stan Reeg on October 15, 1965, while attending a dance at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds Ballroom.  A year later they were engaged and got married on September 2nd, 1967, at Holy Family Catholic Church at New Mellary by the Monastery.  They had two boys Todd on May 30, 1968, and Eric on June 16, 1972.

In 1970 Betty moved to DeWitt and worked in the ICU at Jane Lamb Hospital in Clinton. Following she worked in various nursing positions: Clinton county visiting nurse, private physician’s nurse, private duty nurse and finished up her career at John Deere Health Insurance as a quality care assurance specialist.  Betty served on numerous boards over the years including the Central Community High School Athletic Booster Club for 8 years, the DeWitt Community Hospital Foundation and the Genesis Foundation Board for 15 years.  She helped to start the annual charity golf tournament which benefited the DeWitt hospital.  She co-chaired the tournament for over a decade and helped raise thousands of dollars.  Betty was also active in the catholic church as was a 50-year member of the St. Joseph’s altar and rosary society in DeWitt.  She volunteered in the DeWitt Library and many classrooms and field trips for her boys. In the summer of 1985 Betty and the boys joined Springbrook Country Club while Stan was in Minneapolis training to become a financial advisor with Dain Bosworth.  She and Stan developed some good friends through golfing at the club and their children’s school activities in DeWitt.

Betty enjoyed cooking and baking.  She prepared many fine meals and hosted many get togethers.  However, most people will remember her cookies and desserts.  She was a very talented artist.  Betty did watercolor and oil-based canvas paintings.  She also did many other crafts including fabric picture frames, fabric jewelry boxes, fabric sun bonnet girls, ceramic dolls and ornaments and many more.  She sold arts and crafts at shows around DeWitt and the midwest including Chicago.  Betty enjoyed bowling and bowled in a lady’s league at DeWitt Lanes for many years.  After retirement, Betty and Stan enjoyed traveling and have been to over 45 countries such as Thailand, China, France, Ireland, Gallapados Islands, Egypt, Botswana, Kenya, Greece and many more.

Betty is survived by her husband, Stanley, two boys: Todd (Jodi) Reeg of Paradise Valley, Arizona and Eric (Tracy) Reeg of Norwalk, Iowa and four grandchildren: Trevor, Chloe, Hanna and Kamryn.  She was always proud of each of them and their accomplishments.  Betty truly was the family matriarch and loved her family immensely.  She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother.  She is also survived by her two sisters: Barbara Pauley (friend Mike Howard) of Dubuque, Iowa and Debra (Jerry) Cryderman of Sault Ste Marie, Michigan and her in-laws: Bill and Diane Reeg, of Bellevue, IA, Mike and Peg Reeg, of CO, Judy and Ken Lochner, of Dubuque, IA Don and Val Reeg, of CO, Imelda and Bill Boyce, of Dubuque, James (Doc) Reeg of CO and Kathy Kean of CO and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Charles “Charlie” and Kaye McCarthy and her in laws Bill and Marian Reeg.

Memorials can be sent to Scott Community College Betty Reeg Nursing Scholarship Fund.

We would like to thank Dr. Michael Porubcin in Davenport and Dr. Yousef Zakhria at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City and the numerous other health care workers who did all they could to help Betty with her cancer battle.

Linda A. Roscamp

Linda Ann Roscamp, 72, of Dubuque, died Monday, September 27, 2021, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 29, 2021 from 12 Noon until 1:00 pm at Church of the Nativity.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Linda will be Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at 1:00 pm at Church of the Nativity with Father Andy Upah as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

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

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

Carl R. Selzer

Carl R. Selzer, 74, of LaMotte, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2021, in rural Maquoketa.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Carl’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, October 1, 2021, at Esgate Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.  Military rites will be accorded.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 30, 2021 from 5 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

It will be required to utilize face masks during the visitation.

Carl Ross Selzer was born on October 9, 1946 in Clinton, Iowa, to Johnie and Alice (Kinley) Selzer.  He attended Andrew Schools and then served his country earning an honorable discharge, recently receiving the Quilt of Valor.  He married Arlene Clapham on April 20, 1968 in Dubuque, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Anita and Daniel.

Carl was a lifelong farmer in the Jackson County area.  He was well-known for taking on a challenge and remodeling farm properties and making things look nice.  He was always busy and took great pride in his work and the farm’s he and Arlene owned.  He was skilled at doing many things including bulldozing and making handmade benches.

Carl was an active community servant and was a member of the Bellevue American Legion Post #273, and through the years had volunteered as a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy.  He also served as the city of LaMotte Town Marshall for 9 years and ran for the Jackson County Sheriff in 2000.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Arlene Selzer of LaMotte, IA; children, Anita (Mike) Stender of Maquoketa, IA, and Dan (Terri) Selzer of Maquoketa, IA; 3 step-grandchildren; and 6 step-great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Carl R. Selzer memorial fund has been established.

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

Karl D. Freiburger

Karl D. Freiburger, 42, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away from a brain bleed on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Karl will be held from 1 to 7 p.m., on Thursday, September 30, 2021, at the Reiff Funeral Home at 894 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa.  Visitation will also be held after 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on Friday at the funeral home.

Funeral Services for Karl will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, October 1, 2021, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa with Rev. Rodney Ahlers officiating.   Burial will follow in Holy Family Cemetery.

Karl Delbert Freiburger was born on October 28, 1978, son of Daniel and Linda (Kramer) Freiburger at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque.  Karl was a member of Holy Family Parish.  He attended EPP/Seton Catholic Grade School and graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1998.  Karl was on the Western Dubuque Wrestling Team all 4 years of high school.  His one “bragging right” was that the number one wrestler in the State of Iowa couldn’t pin him which allowed the WD team to win the meet.

During High School Karl worked for the Dubuque County Fairgrounds.  After graduation he went on to work at Eagle Window and Door, Bodine, and then found his home at Dyersville Die Cast in Dyersville as a CNC Set-up Operator.  He loved his job and the people he worked with.

Karl acquired many nicknames over the years which included, Smurf, Hillbilly, Louey, Lewis, Karlos, and Rabbit Dog.  Karl was known for his big smile and great sense of humor.  Every girl was greeted as “Hello Beautiful.”  No one was a stranger for long in Epworth as he welcomed all newcomers with his big smile.  He will be missed by his Rodman’s family and Locals family where he enjoyed watching the Hawkeye and Cubs games and having beers with friends.  His other entertainment was video games and watching movies.

Karl was a giving person.  His last act of giving was being an organ donor and donating his organs to the Iowa Donor Network.

Karl is survived by his parents, Daniel and Linda Freiburger of Peosta, IA; one brother, Peter Freiburger of Dubuque, IA; one sister, Martina Freiburger of Monticello, IA; and his three nieces, Adaline, Cecillia and Lillian Freiburger whom he cherished.  Also surviving are his aunts and uncles, Joan (Joe) Harter, Connie Pottebaum, John (Janice) Freiburger, Anita (Gerald) McDermott, Sue (Dan) Habel, Tom (Sharon) Kramer, Mary Jane Kramer, Kelly (Bill) Kauffmann, and Russ Nauman, and many cousins.  Lastly, his best furry friend Husey who was always by his side whenever he was not feeling well.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Delbert and Joyce Kramer, and John and Helen Freiburger; and aunt, Diane Nauman, and cousin, Jamie Pottebaum.

The family asks that if you have a memory or funny story with Karl, that you write it down on a piece of paper (Yeah, Old school).  As we would like to put together a wonderful remembrance of Karl’s life by making a timeline of his life and friendships.

The family wishes to thank the University of Iowa ICU Neuro Doctors and Nurses for their passionate care and support they gave to Karl.

Anyone unable to attend may send cards to the Reiff Funeral Home, Attn:  Karl D. Freiburger family, P.O. Box #1, Peosta, Iowa 52068.  A video tribute may be viewed, and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Carol A. Schetgen

Carol Ann Schetgen, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 2:50 p.m. Sunday, September 26, 2021, surrounded by loved ones.

A memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 30, 2021, at Mueller Chapel, Linwood Cemetery with Brandon Schetgen officiating. Internment will follow in Linwood Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

She was born on March 31, 1940, in Dubuque to Elmer and Virgina (Smith) Millius. She married Ralph Schetgen and later divorced.

Surviving are her children: Michael (Michele) Schetgen, Jeffery Schetgen, David Schetgen, Deborah Coulson and Jennifer (Dana) Mentz. Grandchildren Brandon (Cassie) Schetgen, Brady (Danielle Benton) Schetgen, Tyler and Sadie Schetgen, Kyle Schetgen, Jessica and Scott Coulson, Nathaniel (Shelby Key) Schetgen. 9 great grandchildren and serveral nieces and nephews. Her sister Sue (Steve) Boelk and a brother Scott (Chris) Millius; one sister-in-law Gloria Millius and a brother-in-law Peter Ludowitz.

She was preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Virginia, former Husband Ralph Schetgen, granddaughter Stephanie Rettenmaier, her brother Richard Millius and her sister Sherry Ludowitz.

Isabel L. Manuell

Isabel L. Manuell, 88, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died on Saturday, September 25, 2021. Mass of Christian burial will be at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Father John Del Priore and Deacon Bill Bussan will concelebrate. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Platteville. Friends may call from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville. Memorials may be made to the Isabel L. Manuell Memorial Fund. Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.

Isabel was born on November 26, 1932 in Lancaster, Wisconsin, daughter of Albert and Theresa (Klar) Langkamp. She was united in marriage to Donald E. Manuell on September 15, 1954 in Platteville. He preceded her in death on October 1, 1992. She and Donald farmed in Platteville Township. She later worked at Fendall Inc., Platteville for many years. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Platteville, where she spent many years making rosaries for missions. She and Don loved to travel. She enjoyed gardening, especially tending to her flowers, playing games and spending time with her family. She would do anything for her family.

She is survived by her four children, Karen (Dale) Wiederholt of Hazel Green, WI; Dennis (Donna) Manuell of Flagstaff, AZ; Jeff (Lila) Manuell of Rochester, MN; and Mary (Dan) Deppe of Cottage Grove, WI; eight grandchildren, Wendy (Jake) Lasee, Jason (Jessica) Manuell, Ben (Jackie) Wiederholt, Kristy Manuell, Adam Deppe, Kayla Manuell, Austin Manuell and Ethan Manuell; three great-grandchildren, Kaden Wiederholt, Henry and Sam Lasee; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, her parents, and siblings, Marion Whitaker, Guerdon Langkamp, Bea Sherman and Eleanor Leuchs.

Mary L. McAuliffe

Mary L. McAuliffe, 75, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at her home.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Monday, October 4, 2021, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Mary Lena Price was born on February 8, 1946, in Paris, Iowa, to Louis and Rita (Ankeney) Price.  She grew up in the Prairieburg and Central City area where she graduated high school.  She married Robert Blozvich in 1963 until his death in 1991. She then married John McAuliffe on June 7, 1992 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on August 23, 2011.

Mary had worked for many years for Lawrence Riley at “Bill’s Tap” in Maquoketa as a bartender and cook.  She had also worked for DAC Inc., Family Dollar and lastly for Casey’s General Store.

Mary was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  She enjoyed camping, shopping, going to lunch with her special group of lady friends, and driving her little yellow car.  She especially enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory included her children, Annette (Charlie) Burton of Sikeston, MO, Robert (Sue) Blozvich, Jr. of Spickard, MO, Chalette (Radd) Gerischer of Maquoketa, IA, Tim (Faith) Blozvich of Trenton, MO, Scott Blozvich of Trenton, MO, Loretta (Randy) Hoogerhyde of Maquoketa, IA, and Melissa (Wade) Wilson of Maquoketa, IA; 21 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Shirley (Chet) Sheetz of Cedar Rapids, IA.  She was preceded in death by her late husband Robert Blozvich SR and John McAuliffe, along with her parents, 6 brothers, 1 sister, and 2 grandchildren, Brittany Ann Marie Greene and Amber Nicole Blozvich.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Mary L. McAuliffe memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to give special thanks to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Mary G. Roling

Mary Glynda Roling (Reth), age 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on September 24, 2021, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.  Private family services will be held; Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Mary was born on May 7th, 1943, in Manchester, IA, the daughter of Herman and Velma (Hansen) Reth. She earned her education through the Monticello Community Schools and was a graduate of the class of 1961. On April 7th, 2006, she married Ralph Roling in Dubuque.

Mary worked for Cuckler Buildings early in her career, followed by Vigertone Ag. She was most prominently known as Monticello City Clerk for many years where she retired.

Mary loved her family dearly. She was most proud of her grandkids and great grandkids. She was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and Iowa Hawkeyes and enjoyed attending all of her grand kids’ activities over the years.  She looked forward to watching her favorite TV shows; Gun Smoke, Mountain Men, and never missed the CMAs. She enjoyed playing cards, board games and dinner out with Ralph and their special friends.

She is survived by her daughter, Aileen Black (Dave Jackson), a son, Doug Black (Kristy); grandchildren Justin Schneiter (fiancée Alex Thomalla), Micaela Davis (Montez), Jordan Schneiter (Taylor), Jacob Black and Bo Black.  Great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Lexington Schneiter; Daylen, Kasen and Rowen Davis; and Knox Schneiter.  Stepchildren, Kevin “Duce” Roling (Michelle), Paula Ostwinkle (Jeff), Jennifer Fuller (Pat White).  Eleven step grandchildren and three step great grandchildren. Her sister, Evonne Wurst (Harold); her brother Ken Reth; sister-in-law Marita Bries (Mike); brothers-in-law Leo Roling, Ed Roling (Joyce), Gerald Roling (Barb); sister-in law Sharon Roling along with four nieces and a nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Velma Coohey, and a nephew Mike Wurst.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to her physicians and nurses from Medical Associates who guided her through her recent health challenges and her loving husband who was always by her side living, loving and caring for her deeply.

William J. Hansen

William J. “Bill” Hansen, age 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at 11:20 p.m., on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at MercyOne Dubuque with his loving family by his side.  To celebrate Bill’s life, private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Bill was born on March 6, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of John P. and Lena (Loeber) Hansen.

Bill was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shirley Rannals, on November 20, 1954, in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 4 children and 66 years of marriage before Shirley sadly passed away earlier this year on May 5.  Bill was employed with the Dubuque Packing Company for 39 years until his well earned retirement.  In his free time, Bill enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Lux Club and the Eagles Club, where he was a member for 30 years.  He also liked riding his motorcycles, going camping, and boating out on the river with the family.  Without a doubt, spending time with his children and grandchildren was his favorite thing to do.  We are deeply saddened at losing Bill so soon after losing Shirley, but find some comfort in knowing that they are now happily reunited for Eternity.

Those left to cherish Bill’s memory include

his children,
David Hansen, Iowa City, IA,
Sharon Hansen, Dubuque, IA,
Terry Hansen, Dubuque, IA
and Dawn Hansen, Dubuque, IA;

his 3 grandchildren,
Jimmy, Carrie and Jeremy;

his sister,
Irene (Bernie) Behnke, Asbury, IA;

and a sister-in-law,
Alice Hansen, Dubuque, IA.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Shirley Hansen; a daughter-in-law, Mary Hansen; and his siblings, Leonard (Rosie), John “Sonny” Jr., Betty and Louise.

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

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

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

John P. Mihalakis

John P. “Junnie” Mihalakis, age 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at home peacefully on September 26, 2021, surrounded by his family.

An extended family visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on Thursday, September 30, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, with services at 3:00 p.m., with Deacon Mike Ellis.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in John P. Mihalakis name to Hospice of Dubuque, 1670 JFK Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52002.

Junnie was born on March 18, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, the youngest son of Viola (Neubauer) and Phillip Mihalakis.  Junnie married the love of his life, Letha “Midge” (Billmeyer) Mihalakis, on February 23, 1949, at Saint Mary’s Church in Dubuque, IA.  They were together 69 years before Midge passed in 2018.  Junnie characterized his beloved Midge as his “Angel,” a metaphor that Junnie claimed his father Phillip used to describe Midge upon meeting her for the first time.

Junnie grew up in “The Flats” of Dubuque.  At an early age, Junnie developed a fascination for fishing and the Mississippi River.  It was this passion that spawned the first of many successful business ventures over the years.  Junnie was a self-made man who was ambitious and aggressive in his work.  He had a gift to see opportunities where others did not.  He worked in partnership with brother-in-law Richard Billmeyer for over forty years.  Besides his enterprising spirit, his true love was spending time at the Bass Camp Resort, Minnesota City, MN, his home away from home for over fifty years, where he entertained countless friends, professionals, and business-people by instructing them in the art of fishing.

It is easy to see Junnie’s love of fishing but knowing him was to know that his generosity and love for people spread past the riverbanks.  There was this saying, “When God measures a man, he puts the tape around the heart, not the head.”  Throughout life, Junnie approached things with a curious blend of optimism, practical wisdom, and an openness to accepting and facing whatever showed up, both good and bad.  For Junnie, his life was measured by honesty, integrity, faithfulness, and giving back.

Junnie was immensely proud of his Greek lineage and one who always put family first – an exceptional father and husband who lived life to its fullest.  In his later years, when asked about his life, he was always quick to respond, “It’s Been a Damn Good Life!”  His life was well-lived; he worked hard, played hard, and never lost sight of his humble beginnings; he made a lifetime commitment to helping those in need.

Junnie is survived by

nine children,
Viola McLaughlin,
Janice Lenz,
Deb Oster,
Vickie (Pat) Ellis,
Clyde (Tina) Mihalakis,
Kim (Rich) Rink,
Joleen (Jim) Hedley,
Mark (Dawn Wolf) Mihalakis,
and Ann (Mike) Cicciarelli;

27 grandchildren;

52 great-grandchildren;

and 9 great-great-grandchildren.

Junnie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Letha “Midge” (Billmeyer) Mihalakis; a son, in infancy; a daughter, Regina; his parents; brothers, George P., and Louis “Louie” Mihalakis; and his sisters, Sophia, in infancy, Kathleen (LaVerne) Jorgensen, Irene (Hank) Waltz, Harriet Bush and Delores Wiedenbacher; and sons-in-law, John McLaughlin Jr., and James “Jim” Oster.

Junnie’s family would like to extend a special thanks to all who were instrumental in the compassionate and loving caring of Junnie, especially Sean Bradley, his personal care taker; Sue and Jeremiah, Hospice of Dubuque; and his beloved grandson, Jim.  We are eternally grateful for your help.

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