Obituaries Archive

Robert A. Dean

Robert (Bob) Allen Dean, 62, of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, August 14, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.  He was born on October 15, 1958, in Dubuque, the son of William (Bud) and Mahala (Tillie) (Harry) Dean.  Bob was raised in Rickardsville area and attended Western Dubuque High School.

In 1982 Bob’s mother wanted to introduce him to a gal named Deanna but she declined and so her best friend Liz agreed to meet him and so the romance began. Bob and Liz had a short engagement as Bob told all his friends he wasn’t getting married until he was 25. Bob and Elizabeth (Liz) Tibbott were married at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Greeley on October 15, 1983, on his 25th birthday.

They resided at North Buena Vista for three years then moved to Otter Creek in 1986 and spent 24 years there until moving to their current residence at Edgewood. Bob worked at Dubuque Stamping and Manufacturing for 30 years retiring in 2007. He was only retired for two weeks and then went to work for Bowman Farms until they moved to Edgewood.  Bob worked for a couple of farmers and at Norby’s Farm Fleet for a few years. Eventually he had enough of punching a time clock and he enjoyed doing what he wanted when he wanted, that included farming his own farm which he had done his entire life. In 2017, Bob and Liz purchased a concrete lawn ornament business which he continued to operate until his health wouldn’t allow it.

Bob enjoyed farming but what he mostly loved was coon hunting. In his younger days he hunted the hills of Buenie with his dad, brother, cousins and uncle. It was in his blood. He loved taking his children and neighborhood boys out on the big hunt and couldn’t wait for opening night. He loved listening to the dogs treeing the coon. He also enjoyed trapping and deer hunting. Bob formed many friendships and had many hunting buddies and loved taking the young ones out to show them how it was done.

Bob’s most treasured moments was the time spent with his family and especially his grandchildren which brought him much happiness. They loved it when grandpa would take them for a mule ride across the creek and out into the timber.

Survivors of Bob include his wife, Liz of 37 years. His four children, Jason and fiancé Amanda Balk and their children, Alivia, Aubrie, and Autumn; Justin and his wife Shelby and their children, BeauAnne and Case; Chelsea and her daughters, Luka and Paisley; and Ethan and his wife Ruthann and their children Evelyn, Adalyn, Gracie, and Noah.  Bob is also survived by his brother, Bill (Deb Betts) Dean; his father-in-law, Merwin Tibbott; sisters and brothers-in-law, Barb Staton, Dale (Penny) Tibbott, Jim (friend Shannon) Tibbott, Ed (Renee) Tibbott, Bev (Burdette) Conner, Larry (Teresa) Tibbott, Joe (Jayne) Tibbott and Terry McAllister.  He is also survived by a special guy that he considered his own son, Garret Bickell and his wife Katie and their children, Cole and Iris; his loving dogs, Eddie and Kandi; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Sharon McAllister, his mother-in-law, Mary Tibbott and a very special uncle that meant the world to him, Raymond Dean.

Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and support throughout Bob’s journey. Cancer sucks but he put up a hell of a fight right up to the very end.

Vicky A. Cleary

Vicky A. (Heiderscheit) Cleary, 58, loving wife and mother of three, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, on August 13, 2021, at her home after a courageous battle with cancer.  To celebrate Vicky’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at St. Joseph Church, 20249 St. Joseph Drive, Rickardsville, Iowa, and from 9:00 a.m., until the time of services on Thursday at the church.  To honor Vicky’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 19, 2021, at St. Joseph Church, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating.  Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Vicky was born on November 23, 1962, in Dubuque, daughter of Lyle and Patricia (Becker) Heiderscheit.  She graduated from Leo High in 1981 and Northeast Iowa Community College a year later with a certificate in bookkeeping/accounting.  On May 11, 1991, she married her best friend and the love of her life, Stephen Cleary.  They settled in Rickardsville, Iowa and together raised their sons, Ryan, Brandon and Kyle.  She worked for the Telegraph Herald Classifieds, Woodward Communications and Eagle Window and Door before starting a daycare business, which she ran for almost 20 years.  She was an active member in the St. Joseph’s Parish in Rickardsville and local communities where she served as the City Clerk for the cities of Rickardsville (19 years) and Sherrill (4.5 years) and was a member of the Catholic Orders of Forrester’s in Rickardsville.

Vicky devoted herself to being an extraordinary wife and mother.  She always put her family first, but still made time to hit the dance floor with her mother, sisters, and girlfriends.  She loved spending time with Steve whether it was attending concerts, watching the waves break in Door County, enjoying a beautiful sunset, or snuggling up for the new Hallmark movie.  She rarely missed attending one of the boys’ sporting events and was the ultimate advice giver, even if you did not want to hear it.  There wasn’t a problem she couldn’t fix.  She enjoyed many things in life including camping, gardening, baking, cheering on her dad and brother as they pulled down the track, sitting back for 4th of July fireworks, and she always made sure there was a home-cooked meal on the table with a dessert to follow.  While her to-do list was usually a mile long, there was always time for Saturday night cheese and crackers with her family and parents.  Vicky was and will continue to be a rock for many.  Her mental and spiritual strength were unmatched; even in the toughest of times she could find words of encouragement and a way forward.

Those left to cherish Vicky’s memory include

her loving husband,
Steve Cleary;

her 3 children,
Ryan (Kendall) Cleary, Brandon Cleary and Kyle Cleary;

her mother,
Patricia Heiderscheit;

her siblings,
Gayle Kramer (friend Doug Westhoff),
Troy (Megan) Heiderscheit
and Tonya (Chad) Pry;

her mother-in-law,
Marilyn Cleary;

and many cousins, nieces, nephews and other family members.

Vicky was preceded in death by her father, Lyle Heiderscheit; her father-in-law, Francis Cleary; and a brother-in-law, Donald Cleary.

Vicky’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Okuno with the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Monga and his nurse Jody with the University of Iowa, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Betsy, Jenny, Lindsey and Courtney, for all of the outstanding care and support they have provided for Vicky.

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

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

David L. Holst

David L. “Red” Holst, age 70, of East Dubuque, IL, completed his earthly journey on August 13, 2021, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor David’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving David’s family.

David was born on December 14, 1950, in Davenport, IA, a son to Loren and Eleanor (Holtz) Holst.  After graduating in the Class of ’69, David joined the U.S. Army and honorably served his country during the Vietnam War.  After finishing his tour David returned back to Iowa and began his career in the roofing trades.  He eventually made his way to the Dubuque area and met the love of his life, Dianne Trautwein, and the couple has been together ever since.  David always had a smile on his face and an abundantly joyful spirit.  His laugh would light up a room and the memories of his happy-go-lucky outlook on life will continue to be an inspiration to all who knew and loved him.  Sadly, David has set down his pool cue for the very last time and only the echoes of his essence remain to hopefully soothe the difficult days ahead.  Thank you, David, for living life on such uncomplicated terms and teaching us all that each day is simply a gift from our Creator to enjoy and embrace.  May your earthly struggles now be behind you as we wait to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of David include,

his loving partner in life,
Dianne Trautwein, East Dubuque, IL;

his daughter,
Fawn;

his step-children,
Rebecca (Darren) Clendenen, Dubuque, IA,
Teresa Schoenfield, Dubuque, IA,
Cynthia (David) Barrett, Dubuque, IA,
Melissa (Dan) Fischer, Dubuque, IA,
Ricky Tuthill, Jr., Dubuque, IA,
and T.J. Tuthill, Dubuque, IA;

his 21 grandchildren;

his 23 great-grandchildren;

his brother,
Wayne Holst, Davenport, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lynda; and his brother, James.

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

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

Catherine Klein

Catherine “Elaine” Klein, 89, of Dubuque died Thursday, August 12, 2021.  Visitation will be from 3 to 8 pm Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Tuesday at the Church of the Resurrection.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  The Mass will be livestreamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home Facebook page.

Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, masks are encouraged at the visitation and Mass.

Elaine was born November 24, 1931 in rural Bankston, daughter of Benedict and Kathleen (Hall) Heiberger.

She graduated from St. Clement’s High School, Bankston.

On January 20, 1953 she married Emmet N. Klein at St. Clement’s Catholic Church, Bankston.  He preceded her in death on March 5, 2010.

Her faith was very important to Elaine; she said the Rosary daily and was a member of the Church of the Resurrection.

Her favorite thing was spending time with her large family including her many grandkids and great grandkids.  She also loved quilting and embroidering.  She was an avid baker; she always had baked goods to share with all. She especially enjoyed spending the holidays with her family.

She is survived by six children, Deborah (Dan) Hogan of Guttenberg, Donna (Chuck) Kluesner of Peosta, Robert Klein of Dubuque, Joseph (Lisa) Klein of Dickeyville,WI, Lois (Darin) Berning of Sun Prairie, WI, and Andrew (Sharon) KIein of Rickardsville; grandchildren, Jamie (Janet) Hogan, Terry (Melissa) Hogan and Ben (Ashley) Hogan; Chris Kluesner, Kayla (Ben) Osborn, Mike (Samantha) Schmidt, Tim (Aimee) Schmidt; Melissa (Matt) Lipska, Joshua (Connie) Klein, Amanda (Lee) Balko, Jessica (Brett) Opitz; Clara (Paul Moniak) Berning; Nicholas (Katelynne) Klein and Megan (Jeff Schilling) Klein; and 12 great grandchildren, Zachary and Ryan Hogan; Lauren and Brandon Hogan; Nathan and Abigail Hogan; Theodore and Margaret Osborn; Brynnlee and Haylee Schmidt; Hazel and Jonah Lipska; Harrison and  Amelia Balko; and Ivanelle Klein; and one expected to arrive in February.

She is also survived by a brother, John (Jean) Heiberger and a son-in-law Fr. Steve Garner.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Cathy Kluesner in 1991 and Lori Garner in 2001, three sisters and brothers-in-law, Rosemary and Sylvester Pins, Eleanor and Cele Sigwarth and Loyola and Howard Morgan and sister-in-law Eileen Heiberger; parents-in-law, Andrew, Barbara and Marcella Klein; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Francis and Rita Klein, Clarence, Rosie and Dee Klein, and Harold and Ady Klein.

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

Memorials may be made to the Elaine Klein Memorial Fund.

Marita V. Oberbroeckling

Marita V. Oberbroeckling, 87 of Algonquin, Illinois and formerly of Dyersville passed away August 12, 2021,at her home.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 19, 2021, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue from 9-10 am on Friday morning prior to the funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burials will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 20, 2021, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Marita was born to Rudolph and Lidwina (Schmerbach) Henkels on November 12, 1933. She grew up on the family farm near Luxemburg, Iowa with seven brothers and sisters.  After going home from the dances in Guttenburg with Gene and writing love letters, she married her U.S. Army sweetheart on Aug. 20, 1956.

She packed a lot of punch in her 87 years. Looking back, she was a clerk for Sears and Roebuck and secretary at Techny Seminary, an Avon lady, a seamstress of Barbie doll clothes and quilts for the hospital bazaars, a creative for the bibs sold at the Field of Dreams movie site, a cook at the Dyersville hospital and kindergarten, a Girl Scout leader, a bus driver for the Western Dubuque School District, and President of the Dubuque Quilter’s Guild.  She also enjoyed being a member of the Auxiliary of the American Legion and singing in the Basilica Resurrection Choir.

Marita became proficient on the computer and utilized email, games and Facebook to keep up with her family and friends, near and far.  Perhaps most satisfying were her weekly Euchre games she played online with her dear friends, Vera and Lila, after she moved to Illinois.

She and Gene enjoyed many long winters in Florida, making long-time friends at Strawberry Ridge in Valrico and traveling with Dyersville friends around the country and to Germany. Marita’s pastimes in retirement included quilting, baking for the farmer’s markets, playing many, many games of cards, and working jigsaw puzzles. Soon after Gene passed away, she made the decision to move to a retirement community in Algonquin, IL to be near her children.  Clarendale of Algonquin became home to her, and she enjoyed the companionship of new friends. Rest assured, the Bingo jackpot can now be won by others during their weekly games. During the past 3 years, she was an Ambassador for Clarendale where she served as host for new residents.

What seemed most unusual to her kids once Gene died was her interest in watching the Cubs play, win, and lose on TV. She knew the players, the pitchers, and their place in the standings.  Gene probably said ‘atta girl’ as she waltzed through the pearly gates.

Marita is survived by her children: Sandy (Randy) Goerdt, of Algonquin, IL, Sheri (Greg) White of Rockford, IL, Russ (Deanna) Oberbroeckling of Tampa, FL, Doug (Cathy) Oberbroeckling and Ann (Steve) Spoden, both of Crystal Lake, IL; 12 grandchildren: Colin (Sami) and Kyle Goerdt, Joe, Matt and Carrie (Tyler Maggio) White, Kelsey and Hannah Oberbroeckling, Chase (Allyson Walsh) and Morgan Oberbroeckling, Maxwell, Maddie and Carter Spoden; one great grandchild, Ana Goerdt; siblings: Therese (Dan) Engelken, of Dyersville, Pete Henkels and Geny Duehr, both of Dubuque, and Tony Henkels of Cape Coral, FL; in-laws: Clarice (Pete) Domeyer of Dubuque, Angela Kruse Oberbroeckling, Herb Tegeler of Dyersville, and Marge Bowerman of Coal City, IL, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Gene in 2016; siblings: Bud (Marilyn) Henkels, Tom Henkels and Carrie (Ray) Swingler; in-laws: Don (Charlotte) Oberbroeckling, Doris Tegeler, Betty (Marvin) Olsem, Ralph (Helene) Oberbroeckling, Marge Henkels, Donald Duehr and Judy Henkels.

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 the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Donald E. Capesius

Donald E. Capesius, 70, of La Motte, Iowa passed away on August 11, 2021.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 18th, 2021, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in St. Theresa Cemetery in La Motte. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 17th, 2021, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m.

Don was born on June 18, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Robert C. and Mary Ellen (Tinker) Capesius. He was the first graduating class from Hempstead High School in 1969 and he worked on the family farm his entire life.

He loved to dance and socialize, enjoyed working in his garden and caring for his animals especially his cats. He loved spending time with his family especially his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his siblings: Jerry (Patty) Capesius of La Motte, Elaine (Dan) Olson of Story City, IA, David (Julie) Capesius of La Motte, Daryl (Beth Herrig) Capesius of Springville, IA, Ronald (MaryLee) Capesius of La Motte and Linda (Bob Hartman) Capesius of Rickardsville, IA. Many nieces and nephews including two godchildren; along with his two aunts Gladys Tinker, of Manchester and Rose Beauvais, of Green Bay, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to thank La Motte and Key West Fire along with the Jackson County Sheriff Dept for all their assistance.

Randall A. Horsman

Randall A. “Randy” Horsman, age 60, of Woodford, WI, formerly of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on Sunday, August 8, 2021, at home.  To honor Randy’s life, a Celebration of Life is being scheduled at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Randy’s family.

Randy was born on December 13, 1960, in Rochelle, IL, a son to Ora Lee and Vivian LeMay (Ewbank) Horsman.  Randy grew up with a free-spirit and a zest for life that he would carry throughout all of his years.  He worked at a few different jobs, mainly in the construction trades, but some retail service as well.  Randy appreciated his hours off even more though.  His determination to enjoy life could easily be found in the countless hours he would spend fishing, listening to his favorite music while sporting the Hawaiian shirt of the day, sitting down to a good meal, or even in simply investing the time and energy necessary to make a special trip to Galena just to visit the candy store.  Randy was a kind and generous man who knew that there was more to life than just the daily grind and if he could find the time to simply sit around the campfire with family and friends, Randy was quite content with the day’s achievements.   We are beyond shocked and heart-broken and Randy’s sudden absence from our earthly lives.  His spirit and memories will surely live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him, and we can only pray that the healing we seek will eventually find its way into our days as well.  Thank you, Randy, for teaching us that it’s ok to slow down and smell the roses when possible, and may peace be yours until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Randy include,

his 3 children,
Randall “R.J.” Horsman, Dubuque, Iowa,
Carly Horsman, Cedar Rapids, Iowa,
and Wade Horsman, Dubuque, Iowa;

his siblings,
Nancy Blackwood, Woodford, WI,
Ray (Mary) Horsman, Hayward, WI,
Marvin (Debbie) Horsman, FL,
Marie Gerhard, Hazel Green, WI,
and Ronda Wells, Holiday, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother-in-law, Foy Blackwood.

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

Janice K. Ward

Janice K. “Jan” Ward, 76, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, August 12, 2021, at WestWing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at the Faith United Methodist Church in Monmouth.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

Janice Kay Brady was born February 1, 1945 in Baldwin, Iowa, to William E. and Ruth Maxine (Orr) Brady.  She was a 1962 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  After graduation, Jan lived in Anamosa, Cedar Rapids, and Baldwin.  She married Larry William Ward in 1967 in Cedar Rapids and they moved to Maquoketa in 1973.  Jan had worked for the Health Department at the Jackson County Courthouse in Maquoketa for many years.

Jan was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Monmouth.  She loved reading, making stained glass art, sewing with her church group, her backyard wildlife, and convertiblizing!

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Larry Ward of Maquoketa, IA; daughters, Christine (Tracy) Russell of Coralville, IA, and Anne (Ed) Mann of Columbus, OH; 1 grandson, Sam Auner; and sisters, Linda (Alan) Wood of Baldwin, IA, and Kathy Brady of Maquoketa, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother Gary Brady.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Faith United Methodist Church in Monmouth, WestWing Place, or Heartland Hospice.

The family would like to give special thanks to UIHC and Dr Yousef Zakharia and staff, Genesis Hospital and Westwing Place in Dewitt, and Heartland Hospice.

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

David J. Bohlen

David J. Bohlen (Barney), 71, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at home with his family by his side from cancer, on Thursday, August 12, 2021.

Private Family Services will be held at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque on Tuesday, August 17, 2021 with military honors accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League and the Illinois Army National Guard. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. A celebration of Dave’s life will be at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday at Thumser’s 19th Hole.

Dave was born on September 27, 1949, the son of Paul and Jacqueline (Loso) Bohlen in Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1967.  On April 4, 1981, he married Mary Jo (Sutter) Bohlen, they recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.

Dave was an avid Yankees and Cubs fan.  He loved nothing more than basking in the sun during the summer heat.  After telling a joke, that usually brought an eyeroll, his tag line was “Bodda bing, bodda boom.”

Dave devoted his life to serving his country. He served two years in the Air Force before serving twenty years in the Army, retiring as a Staff Sergeant. After his military service, he held other positions, including working for Walmart in Dubuque and Galena.  He retired entirely in 2013.

Surviving are his wife; Mary Jo, of East Dubuque; daughter Shelby (Calub) Coley, of Texas; daughter Sarah (Tony) Delaney, of East Dubuque, IL; daughter Katie (Bart) Meyer, of East Dubuque, IL;  stepdaughter Beth (Brad) Samuelson of Rock Island, IL; grandchildren, Skyler, Joey, Danny, Frankie, Paulie, Riley, Quinn, Benjamin, Isaiah, and Olivia; mother Jaqueline Bohlen; sister Karen (Ron) Becker; sister-in-law Susie Bohlen, brother-in-law Ward Zitzer; father-in-law Joseph Sutter; brothers-in-law, Mike (Bobbie) Sutter, Jim Sutter, Jerry Sutter, Mark (Vicky) Sutter, Tom (Leanne) Sutter; and many nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his father Paul, his siblings Barbara and Mark, his mother-in-law Eileen Sutter and brother-in-law John Sutter.

In lieu of flowers a Dave Bohlen Memorial Fund has been established.

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

David R. Rafoth

David Russell Rafoth, born August 11, 1944, to Russell and Eleanor Rafoth, lost his last battle with cancer on August 7, 2021, in Dubuque. He was surrounded by his loving family.

David graduated from St. John’s Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin in 1962. He then returned home to Dubuque where he earned a business degree, graduating from the University of Dubuque in 1966.

He enlisted with the United States Marine Corps, serving in Vietnam from 1967-1968, where he earned the Purple Heart, Medal of Honor. After being honorably discharged, David joined the family business, Rafoth Furnace and Sheet Metal Company.

David was an avid fisherman, motorcycle rider, and boater who loved spending time on the Mississippi River. He also enjoyed socializing with numerous friends, who fondly remember his masterful storytelling skills. David was a proud member of the Tri-State Vietnam Veterans Association.  He was also a member of the Dubuque Shooting Society’s 990 club.

Following retirement, David and Jan moved to Asheville, North Carolina to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They were fortunate to develop many new friendships and were surrounded by exceptional neighbors.  David dedicated his time volunteering at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Janie (Kueter) of Asheville; daughter Jessica Rafoth (Oren Polak) of Key West, FL; sisters Sharon Conlon of Dubuque, IA, Rebecca Smith (Terry Philips) of Palm Coast, FL; mother-in-law Bernice Ehlers; sister-in-law Kathy Kueter; brothers-in-law Kevin (Sandy) Ehlers, and Terry (Mary) Ehlers, all of Dubuque, IA. David is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law Richard Kueter; brothers-in-law Michael Conlon, Patrick Smith, and Lynn Kueter.

David will be celebrated at a later date. Services will be announced and take place at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, North Carolina, where full military honors will be accorded.

Memorials may be given to Veterans Restoration Quarters, 1329 Tunnel Road, Asheville, North Carolina 28805.

Jan would especially like to thank Dr. Bruce Kelly, for encouraging David to participate in Brothers Like These, a creative writing program for healing veterans.

SEMPER FI.

James F. Paradiso

James F. Paradiso, 69, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. Visitation will be Wednesday, August 18, 2021 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. The Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 10:30 am at Church of the Nativity. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. 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.

Jim was born September 18, 1951, in Dubuque, the son of Frank and Veronica (Forrest) Paradiso.
He attended the University of Dubuque where he was on the Dean’s list.

Jim was a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. Jim played for many softball teams in the Tri-State area and was eventually inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame. He also enjoyed playing golf, fishing and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals.

Jim was proud of many things, but he was most proud of his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his former wife, Kimberly Pettit of Gays Mills, WI; his children, James “Jimmy” Paradiso, John Paradiso and Jessica (Jimmy) Dreier, all of Dubuque; his grandchildren, Alivia, Madilynn, Izabella and Jase; his siblings, Veronica “Ronnie” Paradiso, Patricia (Kevin) Chapman, Mary Ann (Jerry) Jochum, Philip (Susan) Paradiso and Michael G. (Cindy) Paradiso and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to all the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Barbara J. Cummer

Barbara J. (Dix) Cummer, age 71, of Balltown, Iowa, went home to Heaven on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at her home.  To celebrate Barbara’s life, private family services were held at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Balltown, Iowa.  Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery.

Barbara was born on April 19, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Leo and Dolores (Hefel) Dix.

Barbara was one of 18 children born and raised in Dubuque where she graduated from Wahlert High School, Class of 1968.  She married the love of her life, Lester Cummer, on May 26, 1973, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque and they would make their forever home in Balltown.  Barbara was a full time wife and mom when the children were small, and after they went off to school she began working at Skip Breitbach Feeds doing whatever was needed for over 25 years.  She and Lester were staples of the Balltown community where she was a faithful member of St. Francis of Assisi Church.  When she found some free time on her hands, Barbara enjoyed reading, watching movies, playing board and card games with family and friends.  She also liked to spend time in the great outdoors whether it be sitting around the fire at the campsite or tending to her garden.  Spending time together and caring for her family was the aspect of Barbara’s life that brought her the greatest joy.  She always made sure everyone was in attendance for family functions and cherished all of the memories they made together throughout the years.  Barbara was always taking care of others and encouraged everyone around her to do the same.  We are truly heartbroken at losing our wonderful wife, mom, sister and aunt so suddenly.  We love you and will miss you more than you could possibly know.

Those left to cherish Barbara’s memory include

her husband,
Lester Cummer, Balltown, IA;

her children,
Todd (Angel Coyle) Cummer and Angel’s children, John, Dawson and Madilynn, Balltown, IA,
Adam Cummer, Balltown, IA
and Amy Cummer;

her siblings,
Ron Dix, East Dubuque, IL,
Joyce (Bob) Hammel,
Jeanette (Dean) Rampson,
Bill (Patti) Dix,
Linda (Dick) Firzlaff,
Judy Dix,
Marilyn Dix, all of Dubuque, IA,
Shirley (Tracy Carlin) Youngblut, Spirit Lake, IA,
Alan (Sue) Dix, Dubuque, IA,
Cheryl (Chuck) Noel, Asbury, IA
and Carol (Joe) Powers, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Pat Dix, Dubuque, IA;

her in-laws,
Melvin (Alyce) Cummer
and Rosemary Heiderscheit;

and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Bob (Carlene) Dix, Patsy (Art) Freihoefer, Dorothy Koltes, Richard “Pup” Dix, Daryl (Sandi) Dix and Mary Dix; and a brother-in-law, Alan Heiderscheit.

Barbara’s family would like to thank the Sherrill Fire Department 1st responders, Dr. Ewen and her staff, Dr. Hermann and the Oncology Department, for all of the outstanding care and support they have provided for Barbara and her family.

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

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

Rita H. Beck

Rita H. Beck, 94, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on August 10th, 2021, with family by her side at Sunset Park Place.

Services will be held at 11:30 am, Monday, August 16th, at Resurrection Church in Dubuque, with Rev. Msgr. Daniel Knepper officiating. Funeral services will be livestreamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9-11:30am at the Church of the Resurrection. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Rita was born on May 8, 1927, the daughter of John and Margaret (Hemmer) Dehner, in Cascade, Iowa.  She was raised, along with seven other siblings, working odd jobs and helping other families care for their children.  She eventually moved to Dubuque where she worked at Dubuque Packing Co. until finally staying home to raise her four children.  Eventually, after the children married, she went back to work cleaning for a few families around town.

Rita’s favorite color was hot pink, and she lived her life as vibrantly.  In her younger years she would dance to the big bands at Melody Mill and Center Grove.  At one of these dances she proclaimed, “I’m going to find a blue-eyed sailor to marry.” And that she did, when Joseph W. Beck and Rita married on May 15^th, 1946, at the Church of the Nativity. They were united in a double marriage ceremony with Rita’s sister, Vi and Robert Frasher Sr. Rita and Joseph enjoyed 68 years together before his passing in 2014.

Rita was meticulous in cleaning and took great pride in her home.  Her carpets were always fluffy and her kitchen tiles gleamed like mirrors.  She could sew, crochet, and darn just about anything.  Rita also knew how to enjoy herself and share a good laugh. On special occasions she’d ask for a highball to sip with company and was known to polish off a beer or two while making dinner.  Rita was a fierce Euchre and Kings Corner player, believing a quarter won was just as sweet as any earned.  Guests could always expect a fresh relish tray with Club crackers and cheese, a warm pan of brownies or plate of cookies.  Her pumpkin pies were blue-ribbon, and Rita was often tasked with this most important of responsibilities at Thanksgiving.

Rita restored her faith during Catholic Mass on Sunday, and with Lawrence Welk, on Saturday evenings.  She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and friend to all.  Rita was a woman of great strength, resourcefulness, and experience.  She was loved, gave love, and will be missed greatly.

She is survived by four children, William (Deborah) Beck of Kanata, Ontario, Joyce (Jerry) Schissel of Dubuque, Kenneth (Debra) Beck of Asbury, and Kevin (Stacey Weber) Beck of Dubuque; 10 grandchildren, Geoffrey Beck, Adam (Nola Palmer) Beck, Ashley (Eric) Dickson, Shawna (Mike) Poppen, Toby (Laura) Schissel, Luke (Jayni) Schissel, Robert Beck, and Jonathan (Elizabeth) Beck, Austin “A.J.” and Riley Beck; 10 great-grandchildren, Isabella and Abbigail Beck, Blake and Ivy Dickson, Ella and Ava Poppen, Will and Olivia Schissel, Neva and Truman Schissel, and Alexander Beck; sister, Margaret Ann Ernzen; brother-in-law, Les Schilling; sister-in-law, Bernadine Dehner; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Rita was also preceded in death by her daughter, Lynn Beck; brothers, George and Edward Dehner; and sisters, Irene Till, Mary Knepper, Dorothy Cool, and Viola Frasher.

In lieu of flowers a Rita Beck Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would especially like to thank Rita’s dear friends Marlene Burgmeier, Therese Haas, and her special niece, Marge Gassmann, for the many years of laughs and special times together.  A special thanks to the residents and staff of Luther Manor Apartments and Sunset Park Place, as well as Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional kindness and care.

Joseph J. Curtis

Joseph J. “Joe” Curtis, 51, of Huxley, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at his home.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Joe’s life will be held from 4:30 to 7:30 P.M. on Monday, August 16, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private service and burial will be held at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

Joseph James Curtis was born May 9, 1970 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to James Clement and Jacqueline Joyce (Nugent) Fuller Curtis.  He was a 1988 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School where he participated in Football and Wrestling.

“Joe” had worked at Fareway Stores in Maquoketa while in high school and that continued for many years after high school as he moved with the meat department to various cities throughout Iowa.  From March of 2001 until present he had owned and operated his own business in Huxley called Joe’s Snacks.

“Joe” was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings.  He enjoyed fishing, 4 wheeling, and sprint cars.

Those left to honor his memory include his siblings, Tom Fuller of Maquoketa, IA, David (Mary Jo) Fuller of Monmouth, IA, Larry Fuller of Maquoketa, IA, Jim (Lori) Fuller of Rochester, IA, and Jodi (Tim) Cottle of Maquoketa, IA; 9 nieces and nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents James Curtis and Jacqueline Fuller.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Joseph J. “Joe” Curtis memorial fund has been established.

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

Lynn E. Kerker

Lynn E. Kerker, age 97, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubquue, IL, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2021, surrounded by her family.  She was born in Millboro, South Dakota to Guy and Alice (Dick) Clover. Her family moved to Council Bluffs when she was a baby. She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. She married her first love, Earl J. Kerker, in Hiawatha, Kansas on November 23, 1946. Their first date was the day before he left for the Army, and they wrote letters for three years during the war.

Her first job was with Guarantee Mutual Life Co. in Omaha, where she was studying to be a Life Office Management Associate.

Lynn was a member of St. Luke’s UMC, and she and Earl were very active members.  Through the years she was involved in the Women’s Society, where she held every office, and served as an officer in the Dubuque District UMW. Wonderful Wednesday and Fabulous Friday were two of the events she participated in regularly, but she also served on many other committees. She taught Sunday school for 20 years.

Lynn’s life was dedicated to serving others. She volunteered on the Board of the Jo Daviess Red Cross for years. She served the children at St. Mark Community Center, and was on the first governing board of St. Mark Community Center. Hospice of Dubuque was very close to her heart; she started volunteering there from its inception and continued well into her 80’s. She received the Iowa Volunteer of the Year Award from Governor Branstad in April of 1993 for her work with Hospice. The Finley Hospital Auxiliary kept her busy until she was 95, when an injury caused her to retire from that. She was an active member of PEO Chapter KI where she served many offices.

She was employed as a Medical Record Librarian at the West Union Hospital for five years, worked at Xavier Hospital for a short time when she first moved to Dubuque, and was Medical Record Librarian at Finley Hospital for 10 years.

Family was the most important thing in her life.  She and Earl retired early, and they were able to travel extensively. She was a dedicated mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and was happiest when she was surrounded by family. She loved playing games, which we did at every family gathering. She and Earl were avid Bridge players, and she was lucky enough to find a foursome to play Bridge at Sunset Park Place.

Lynn always had an infectious smile on her face, and made people feel good about themselves.  She will be sorely missed by all of the lives she touched.

Lynn was preceded in death by her husband Earl, and an infant daughter.

She is survived by her daughters Sue (Gordon) Landrum, Janet (Jim) Hlavacek, Carol (Steve) Larrabee; grandchildren, Steve, Lisa, Ethan, Lynn, J., Jenna, Frank and Charlie; and great-grandchildren, Olivia, Allison, Jack, Ellery, Ward and Aidan, as well as her nieces and nephews.

There will be a visitation on Friday, August 13, from 4-7 p.m. at St. Luke’s UMC in Dubuque, and after 10 on Saturday, August 14, at St. Luke’s followed by a Memorial Service at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’s UMC, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

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