Obituaries Archive

Virginia L. Braun

Virginia L. Braun, age 95, of Belvidere, IL, completed her earthly journey on May 31, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Virginia’s life, a private family graveside service is being held.  Burial will be in the Belvidere Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Virginia’s family.

Virginia was born on August 4, 1929, in Belvidere, IL, a daughter to Frank and Lucy (Poole) Chaplin.  She was truly blessed to spend almost her entire 95 years among us surrounded by family and friends in the same community she was born in.  Virginia viewed each day as an opportunity to be the best wife, mother, grandmother and friend she could possibly be and in turn, her legacy of love and devotion shined brightly through each decade and generation she was grateful to be a part of.  She met and married the love of her life, Alden Wayne Braun, in 1948, and the two were blessed with 54 wonderful years and two adored sons to raise and care for along the way.  Virginia did find time to work outside of the home and invested 48 years in the maintenance department at International Paper.  Her work ethic was continually on display and she finally made her way into retirement in 1996 at the age of 67.  We are going to miss our dear sweet Virginia moving forward, but are forever grateful for the 95 years the Lord was gracious enough to share her with us.  May the love and lessons she leaves behind help to comfort our broken hearts until we see her beautiful smile once again.  Thank you, Virginia, for living your best example for us to follow and may peace be yours today as you are reunited with all of your loved ones who’ve been called home ahead of you.

Those left to cherish the memory of Virginia include,

her two sons,
Steven (Carrie) Braun, Dubuque, IA,
and Mark Braun, Rockford, IL;

her grandchildren,
Christopher (Rachel) Braun, Ankeny, IA,
Jason (Brianne) Braun, Polk City, IA,
Tommy Langas, S.D.,
Jennifer Langas, Dubuque, IA,
and Julie (Chris) Roling, Dubuque, IA;

her great-grandchildren,
N’Kaylis, Ally, Naomi, Gianna, Arianna, Brooklyn, and Bodhi;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Alden W. Braun; and her siblings, Arthur Chaplin, Robert Chaplin, Gerald Chaplin, Frederick (Betty) Chaplin, Clifford Chaplin, and Mildred Chaplin.

Virginia’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to extend a personal and heartfelt thank you to her niece, Anna Robertson, for all of her generous love and support.  And finally, in appreciation a sincere thank you to Cindy Roman for all of her attention and help during this most difficult time.  We have truly been blessed to have such wonderful and gracious support around us and we are forever grateful for each and every one of you who played your roles perfectly.

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

Jerome N. Urbain

Jerome N. Urbain, 94, of Epworth, Iowa passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 11:55 p.m. at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Jerome will be held from 8 to 10: 30 a.m., Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Jerome will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 7, 2025, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Placid, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Jerome was born September 30, 1930, in Placid, Iowa, son of Joseph and Irene (Casey) Urbain. He received his education from the rural country schools in Placid, Iowa.  He went on to become a Veteran having served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

On April 11, 1964, he was united in marriage to Ruth A. Kutsch at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa.  Ruth preceded him in death on June 26, 2017.

He farmed in the rural Placid area on the family farm for many years, until his retirement.  During his retirement he worked for Western Dubuque School District as a bus driver for 15 years and at Reiff Funeral Home as a Livery Driver for over 20 years.  He was a huge Chicago CUBS fan, he loved to play euchre and bingo.  He loved spending time with his children and especially his grandchildren.

Jerome was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, Iowa. He was also a member of the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650 for 70 years and the Epworth Knights of Columbus Council #7823.

He is survived by his three children, Joanne (John) Miller of Davenport, John (Van) Urbain of Epworth and Joyce (Randy) Frasher of Cascade; five grandchildren, Jamie (Aaron) Koopman, Jana and Jay Miller, Samantha and Josey Frasher; two sisters, Jane Sweeney of Epworth, and Ellen Lindauer of Cascade; IA; brothers-in-law, Joe O’Brien of Cascade, Bill (Karen) Adams of Dyersville and Bruce Cottrell of Dubuque.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Mary Katherine (Dave) Lassance, JoAnn Adams, Monica O’Brien, Elaine (Bud) Decker, Donna (John) Flynn and Nora Cottrell; father and mother-in-law, George and Ella (Berg) Kutsch, sisters-in-law, Jeanette (Leo) Heitzman, Ethel (Joe) Spautz, and Rose Keuter, brothers-in-law, Lloyd Sweeney, Don Lindauer, George Murphy, George (Margie) Kutsch, Robert Kutsch, and Eldon Kutsch.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Joanne L. Lindenberg

Joanne L. Lindenberg, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque.

Friends and family may visit from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 4:30 at the funeral home with Pastor Linda Von Fumetti officiating. Burial will follow at a later date at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Joanne was born on October 4, 1935, the daughter of Olof and Ada (Richardson) Berg, in McGuire Bend, Iowa on the Richardson family farm located just north of Dayton, IA. Her brother, Wilmer Robert (Bob) and Joanne enjoyed their time on the farm working and caring for the animals. Joanne spent lots of time with her Grandma Maggie while everyone was working in the fields growing gardens and milking cows. She married Willard “Willie” R. Lindenberg on April 7, 1956, in Dubuque. He preceded her in passing on March 28, 2011.

Joanne had a caring heart and a listening ear. She moved to Dubuque after high school to work at Hillcrest Family Services in the orphanage. She also worked many years as a pharmacy technician at Palmer Drug for 35 years and Hy-Vee Pharmacy for 5 years. She loved her job and had a friendship with many of her customers. She was a proud member of Rockdale United Methodist Church until its closure in 2023. Joanne taught Sunday School and belonged to the United Methodist Women Group. Her family will remember her for her love of birds and her avid watching of “Wheel of Fortune”.

Joanne is survived by her four daughters Luanne Lindenberg, Janet (Donald) Genz, Sandi Lindenberg and Cindi Lindenberg, grandchildren Kelli (John) Jones, Kathi (Nathan) Riemer, and Peter Genz, great-grandchildren Jill, Erik, Logan, Mason, and Ella.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents Olof and Ada, son Robert Willard in infancy, brother Bob, and great-granddaughter Katie.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sunnycrest Manor for all the wonderful care and kindness they gave to Joanne. They would also like to thank Hospice of Dubuque.

Clarence J. Adams

Clarence John (CJ) Adams, age 102, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025 at Bethany Home after a long life full of loving family and friends. He was born on July 3, 1922 on the family farm near Turkey River, Iowa, the ninth child of Mathias J and Catherine M. (Harasche) Adams into a family of seven girls and three boys.

Clarence graduated from Turkey River Grade School, a one-room country school,  in 1937 and from Guttenberg High School as co-valedictorian in 1942. He joined the Enlisted Army Reserve in 1942. After one semester on scholarship at Loras College, he reported for active duty at Camp Dodge. His forty months of service in World War II included twelve months in the Army Signal Corps electronic schools, nine months in the Army Specialized Training Program in basic engineering at St. Bonaventure College, Olean, New York and Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was assigned to the 193^rd Signal Repair Company four months prior to disembarking to the European Theater of Operations for fifteen months. On March 1, 1946, he was honorably discharged as a T-3 Sergeant Technician.

Clarence farmed near Millville, Iowa from 1946 to 1951; worked for Westinghouse, Metuchen, New Jersey from 1951 to 1954; owned and operated Adams TV Servicenter, Dyersville, Iowa from 1954 to 1960; worked in John Deere Experimental Engineering Test Section from 1960-1987 when he retired. He was a member of the United Auto Workers, Local 94, where he was Chairman of the organizing Committee from 1961 to 1973.  He served as the Steward Council Chairman for two years after they voted to join Local 94 and remained a loyal union member. In 1976 he ran for Congress in the Democratic Primary, but lost.

Clarence met Cathy Fisne when he was studying at Rutgers and she was attending St. Peter’s School of Nursing, New Brunswick, New Jersey in the Army cadet nurses training program and they fell in love. They were married in 1946 in Harvey, Illinois and had three daughters- Patti (Mike) Boardman, Box Elder, South Dakota; Val Adams (deceased), Dubuque, Iowa; and Trudi (Bob) Stauffacher, Monroe, Wisconsin. They were divorced in 1964 and their marriage was later annulled.

In 1980 CJ married Lucille Elaine Bennett Hird at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ, Dubuque, Iowa. They had thirty-four years of happy times with family and friends, playing golf, dominoes, and euchre; dining out with friends; managing their rental properties; driving around the country; and working at Summit Congregational where they were instrumental in building the new church. Elaine died at 89 on June 1, 2014.

Surviving family are: two daughters- Patti (Mike) Boardman, Box Elder, SD and Trudi (Bob) Stauffacher, Monroe, WI; eleven grandchildren- Nikki (Pat) Nuehring, Guttenberg, IA; Jason (Heather) Steger, Colesburg, IA; Erika (Shane) Dever, Cincinnati, OH; Paul Two Crow and Randy Talks, Box Elder, SD; Kate (Tim) Harle, Asbury, IA; Mike Knockel, Dubuque, IA; Kassie (Nathan) Keck, Clinton IA; Jenni (Jason) Galicinski, Cookeville, TN; Jacci Baker, Mt. Horeb, WI; Kent (Kelly) Stauffacher, Omro, WI; twenty-five great grandchildren-Payton and Max Nuehring, Brian Steger, Alexa and Grant Dever, Jake (Courtney) Harle, Lindsey (Quinn) McCullough, Kenzie Harle, Andrea and Ashley Knockel, Samantha, Andrew and Lainie Mueller, Anna, Micah, Matthew, Moriah, Samuel, Jeremiah, Sarah, Timothy, Joshua and Elizabeth Galicinski, and Kole and Kamryn Stauffacher; six great great grandchildren-Nova McClintek, Bentley, Callie, Lillie, Avery and Sylvee. CJ was preceded in death by his parents, ex-wife Cathy Falcone, wife Elaine, daughter Val and dear friend Ted Roepsch siblings-Dorothy Meyer, Agnes Adams, Lawrence Adams, Hilda Nolte, Arthur Adams, Leona Walters, Adeline Knapp, Elinor Pine and Teresa Moser, plus siblings in law- Art Meyer, Henry Nolte, Kenneth Walters, Lyle Knapp, John Spoden, Jim Pine, Virgil Moser, Ila Adams, Irene Adams and John Bennett.

The family wishes to send heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of Bethany Home for their kind, compassionate, patient, loving care of Dad and respectful, patient response and understanding to us. Thank you to the nurses and volunteers of Hospice East of Dubuque who brightened up Dad’s last few months with frequent visits giving care and joy. God bless you for your blessings to us.

Services will be held at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ on Saturday, June 7 with visitation from 9-11, funeral service from 11-12 and burial immediately after at Memorial Gardens. Memorials can be sent to Summit Congregational UCC at 2885 JFK Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002

David R. Jones

David R. (Bob) Jones, 87 of Dubuque, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Harmony Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Private family services and burial will be held at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

David was born February 22, 1938, at Dubuque, IA, the son of Bradley and Calista (Hutter) Jones. He was a 1956 graduate of Senior High School in Dubuque. David was united in marriage to Louise M. Orthaus on October 6, 1972 at Epworth, IA, she preceded him in death on May 4, 2017. David was previously married to Shirley Glab with one son David R. Jones, Jr.

Bob worked as a truck driver for fifty years after high school. He worked for several different over-the-road companies throughout the years and retired from Sitco, Inc. in 2008. He was a car and truck enthusiast and enjoyed watching TV, mostly the old time westerns. He enjoyed going out to eat and listening to music. Bob would talk to anyone that would listen, mostly sharing stories of the past.

Surviving are his three children, David Jones, Jr and Michelle (Jason) Madison, both of Dubuque, IA and John (Kelli) Jones of East Dubuque, IL; significant other Susan Kline of Dubuque, IA, three grandchildren, Erik, Calista and Ella; in-laws Joanne (Richard) Gleason, Tom (Marilyn) Orthaus, John (Eileen) Orthaus and Linda (Bill) Noehl.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Louise, granddaughter Katie Jones and several in laws.

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

Noreen V. McDermott-McCarthy

Noreen Violet McDermott-McCarthy, 98, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025. A private family burial will be later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

 She was born March 10, 1927, to Austin and Christine (Foht) McDermott. Noreen married Edmond “Mick” McDermott on April 23, 1949. Two daughters were born from that union. She later married Daniel McCarthy. Noreen and her four siblings were born and raised in the little house on the only side of Prospect Street they call the Osprey’s Nest. She was very proud of that and of her hometown of Galena.

 She loved to dance to the big bands that would play at the Palais Dance Hall and even shared a dance with Lawrence Welk. She worked at the Burgess Battery Factory, the cafeteria at the Galena School System, and for over 20 years as a bartender at the Galena VFW, where she met her second husband, Dan. Together, they shared a love of the Mississippi River and spent many weekends at their camp at Gordon’s Ferry, across from the Ferry landing. She was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs. She had a special place in her heart for animals and feeding the birds. She passed her love of gardening on to her two daughters.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Janice (Randy) Watson and Nancy (Mike) Plumley, four grandchildren, Jamie (Lisa) and Ryan (Cori) Watson, Michael and Jessica Podolsky (fiancée Tony Yanella), six great-grandchildren McKenna, Kaitlyn, Camryn and Mac Watson, Madison and Anthony Yanella and the excitement of a new Watson great grandchild on the way.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Beatrice, Vivian, Austin “AJ”, and Carol, and her husband Dan.

 The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Midwest Senior Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Jeanne P. Beeghley

Jeanne P. Beeghley, 93, of Dubuque, died on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Grand Meadows in Asbury.

There will be a celebration of Jeanne’s life at a later date.

Private burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Jeanne was born February 9, 1932, in Woodbine, IA, the daughter of Lyle and Mabel Maxwell Poe. On November 16, 1952, she married Kenneth Beeghley in Woodbine.  He died December 20, 1994.

Jeanne was a teacher and later worked for Ludovissy Insurance.

Jeanne was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where her faith and community spirit shone brightly. She generously gave her time volunteering at Luther Manor, Mount Pleasant Home, and the Discovery Shop, touching many lives with her kindness. An exceptional cook, Jeanne loved exploring new recipes and could often be found leafing through cookbooks in search of her next culinary adventure. In her leisure time, she found great joy in playing bridge, reading, and traveling-pursuits that reflected her sharp mind and adventurous spirit.

Survivors include three daughters, Jan (Greg) Hatter of NC, Mari Lea (John) Riley of Dubuque, and Paula Dix of Davenport; six grandchildren, Lindsay, Chelsea, Taylor, Brooke, Jordan and Courtney; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Marly Abbott of West Des Moines, many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and one sister.

Jeanne’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Grand Meadows, Hospice of Dubuque, and Finley Hospital for their compassionate care and unwavering support.  Also a special thank you to her longtime neighbors and friends.

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

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

Gerald R. Pickel

Richard Marricle

Richard Marricle, 86, of Cascade, IA, formerly of Plano, TX, passed away on Wednesday, May  28, 2025, at Stonehill Health Center.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, TX.

Richard was born to Alton and Bessie (Dieter) Marricle on June 16, 1938, in Goldthwaite, TX,  and raised in Wichita Falls. He graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1956 and went on  to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Texas Tech University in 1961, where he was  a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.

Richard met Janice Beaty on a blind date in Spur, TX, in the summer of 1960. They were  married on September 15, 1962, at Highland Park Presbyterian Church and made their first home in Dallas. In 1962, he joined the US Army Reserve, and served until his honorable discharge in 1968. Also in 1962, he entered the J.C. Penney Company management training  program. Richard spent the next 36 years with J.C. Penney in various positions, including store manager and regional merchandising manager. Between 1964 and 1981, the family relocated  seven times to five different states. Richard was transferred to Texas in his final job related move and settled in Plano, where he and Jan remained for the next 30 years. He retired in 1998 as the manager of the Six Flags J.C. Penney store in Arlington, TX.

In 2010, Richard and Jan moved to Cascade, IA, to be near their daughter Kristine and her family. His beloved wife passed away in 2014.

Richard kept busy reading, tending his roses, and following his favorite sports teams, with his Labrador Retriever, Pinky, never far from his side. He was thrilled to see the Texas Rangers finally win a World Series, and waited in vain for the Cowboys to make another Super Bowl run. He loved road trips, fast cars, and taking the back roads. His last adventure took him west to South Dakota, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana in his red Corvette.

Richard is survived by his daughter Kristine (Dean) Pfab of Bernard, his grandchildren Matthew and Michael Pfab, Elizabeth (Philippe de La Soujeole) Bruce and Emily Bruce, and his great grandchildren Isla and Augustine de La Soujeole.

He was preceded in death by his parents Alton and Bessie, his wife Janice, his daughter Karen Bruce, and his sister Patricia.

Richard requested that memorials be given to the American Cancer Society, J.C. Penney National HCSC Foundation, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to the Nurses and Staff at Stonehill  Health Center and to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and kindness.

Rita K. Kelly

Rita Kay Kelly, 72, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, after a courageous seven year battle with cancer, fighting until the very end.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rita will be at 10:30 am on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rita was born January 1, 1953, in Centerville, IA, the daughter of Curtis and Mildred Green. As a cheerleader at Indian Hills College in Centerville, Rita met a baseball player from Dubuque named Mike Kelly. They were united in marriage on September 14, 1974 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque. Rita worked at Flexsteel Industries for 30+ years until her retirement.

Rita was the most caring, compassionate, and loving mother/grandma you could ask for. Her kids will always remember that she refused to sleep until they were home for the night! Rita was the proud grandma to Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan. She was at every softball game, basketball game, dance recital, and play performance. The grandkid sleepovers where she got all the lunch table gossip always made her smile. She never judged, just listened and comforted. Although she was taken from us much too soon, the impact she had on our family will never be forgotten. We love you Mom and know you’ll always be waiting for us.

Survivors include her two children, Timothy (Elizabeth) Kelly and Crissy (Jeff) Adams; four grandchildren, Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan; one brother, Barry (Diane) Green; and three nieces and one nephew.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; parents, Curtis and Mildred; and a brother, Dean.

Memorials may be given in Rita’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Kristina, Karla, and Amy for their loving care and guidance.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Rita’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Capt. William L. Crews

Capt. William Lloyd Crews, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 26, 2025, at Sunset Park Place.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the United States Marine Corps. William will be honorably laid to rest at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

William was born on August 19, 1943, in Dayton, Ohio, to Jack M. and Elizabeth F. (Green) Crews. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1961. A childhood polio survivor, Dad went on to lead an extraordinary and multifaceted life. Over the years, he worked as an underwater welder, at Central Steel, the Johnson Space Center, for Hess Corporation, and with the United States Postal Service. He had a lifelong passion for working on cars—he loved “turning wrenches”—and was an avid baseball player from his youth into adulthood, even participating in farm leagues.

In 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a paratrooper infantry soldier in Alaska before attending and completing Officer Candidate School in 1965–1966. He then served as an Infantry Platoon Leader in Vietnam’s Ia Drang Valley with the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, where he was wounded in combat (shot twice). During his second tour in Vietnam, he completed flight school and flew L-19/O-1 Bird Dog reconnaissance aircraft.

After leaving the Army in 1973, he returned to active duty in 1977 with the United States Marine Corps. He resigned his commission as a Captain, accepted the rank of Staff Sergeant, and was assigned to the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He completed dive school in San Diego, California, and underwent advanced training in Quantico, Virginia. His military career was cut short after a severe injury during a night parachute training jump, leading to his medical separation.

Throughout his service, he was awarded numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with “V” device, Air Medal, Scuba Badge, Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia, AR AV Badge with three overseas tours, Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, and Rifle Expert Badge.

William is survived by his sons Scott Crews, William “Bill” Crews, and Tim Crews, twelve grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, nephew Rob Doe, and niece Abby Doe.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Phyllis Doe.

Helen L. Ward

Helen Lucille Ward, 91, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Helen was born on May 15, 1934, in Dubuque, the daughter of Nicholas and Charlotte (Droese) Miller She married William (Doc) C. Ward on Friday, August 13, 1954, and he preceded her in death on March 31, 2014.

Mom loved to cook and sew and loved a great game of cards and family gatherings. She embroidered many tablecloths which will be cherished for years to come. She was especially proud that she made all the bridesmaid dresses for Cindy’s wedding. She enjoyed the trips with dad and was lucky at winning Bingo’s in Las Vegas and wherever she played.

She was a devoted wife and mother and was especially fond of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be forever missed.

Survivors include her two children: Cynthia (Gary) Riniker of Bernard, IA and William J. (Janet) Ward of Tucson, Arizona; three grandchildren: Leann (Michael) Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Joseph Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin, and Lisa Riniker of Dubuque, IA; nine great grandchildren: Michael and Henry Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Maleah and Chasity Riniker of Janesville, Wisconsin, Grace and Wesley Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin,  Kailee DeMoss of Monmouth, IA, Wyatt DeMoss and Evelynn Riniker of Dubuque, Iowa. Her two sisters: Marion Wiezorek and Jean Rubie; her brother Ronald Miller; sister-in-law Marlene Troy and a special niece Brenda Leib McChristy along with many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents Nicholas and Charlotte; her husband William; a son Michael Ward; five brothers, John, James, Lavern, Edward, and Robert Miller; two sisters Jane Palm and Betty Billmeyer and four infant siblings, Loretta, William and twins Carolyn and Marilyn Miller; and several brother and sister in laws.

Helen’s family would like to thank Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all their care.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Helen’s memory.

Sr. Mary Corita Heid, RSM

Sister Mary Corita Heid, RSM, died peacefully surrounded by her family and a Sister of Mercy on May 28, 2025 at the convent of the Presentation Sisters in Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Sacred Heart Chapel, Mt. Loretto Convent 2360 Carter Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001. Gathering for family and friends will begin at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

The daughter of Orie Edward and Florence McClain Heid, Lucille (affectionately called Poochie) was born in Pocahontas, IA on May 25, 1937.  She was “the oldest of the five youngest” in the family’s 10 children.

Lucille entered the Religious Sisters of Mercy (RSM) in Detroit, MI on September 7, 1957 and professed her final vows there on August 18, 1965.  After her novitiate she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mercy College of Detroit, a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of Iowa and, later in life, certification as a spiritual director from St. Joseph Educational Center Institute of Spiritual Guidance.

After beginning her ministry as a nurse, Sister Corita quickly moved into administration in Mercy Hospitals in Iowa and Michigan.  She served as assistant administrator at St. Joseph Mercy Hospitals in Sioux City, IA and in Ann Arbor, MI; administrator at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque, IA and St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Mason City, IA.  Later she became President and CEO in Dubuque then President and CEO of the Sisters of Mercy Health Corporation headquartered in Farmington Hills, MI.  From 1994 to 2015 she served as Full-time Trustee for Mercy Health Network of Iowa.  A publication of MercyOne North Iowa described  Sister Corita as “a mentor and confidant to many chief executive officers and leaders.”

In 2006 she received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the University of Iowa, College of Public Health.  She published several professional articles including “Getting Ready to Govern” in Chicago Trustee (2013) and “Urban Hospitals: Their Plight and Mission” in the Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal, available at https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfmedjournal/vol40/iss1/19.

Sister Corita was a deeply spiritual woman with a warm sense of humor and an infectious laugh.  From 1998 until shortly before her death, she lived in Mason City, IA and was a spiritual director/companion to many while continuing to serve on health care boards for several religious congregations in the U.S. and Canada.  She also served on committees for the Religious Sisters of Mercy including the Detroit Community’s response to Pope Francis’ invitation to send input to the Vatican Synod.

Sister Corita is survived by her siblings Marge (Dave) Ipsan, Nancy (Bob) Garretson and Lori (Richard, deceased) Wignall and sister-in-law Sharon Heid.

She was preceded in death by her parents Orie and Florence Heid and siblings, June (Emmett) Lawler, Jenny (Don) Davis, Joan (Bob) Davis, Lavonne (Matt) Ward, Jack Heid, Kenny Heid, and numerous loving nieces and nephews, grand and great grand nieces and nephews.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

John P. Ernst

John Peter Ernst, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A private memorial service will be held later according to John’s wishes. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

John was born on March 28, 1960, in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Richard and Dorothy Ernst. He honorably served in the United States Marine Corps for ten years. He was a self-employed carpenter for many years. Later, for fourteen years, he was an over-the-road semi tractor driver. He enjoyed hunting, classical music, four wheeling, and most of all spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and his many nieces and nephews.

Surviving are his best friend and love of his life, Lizzy Peterson, his children Dan (Susie) Ernst and their children Paige, Ashton, Quinton, and Rowan, Missy Ernst of DeWitt and her children Kaylee and Lilly, and Mathew (Danielle) Ernst of Monmouth and their children Harper and Ripley.

Also surviving are his siblings Nancy (Larry) Schwager of Bellevue, Paul (Sandi) of Dubuque, Leonard (Marge) of Bellevue, Tom (Diane) of DeWitt, Bill, and Ron, both of Bellevue.

He was preceded in death by his parents and Mary Carlson.

Julitta M. Rokusek

Julitta “Jill” M. Rokusek, 95, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 30, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jill will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Julitta was born April 1, 1930, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Oscar and Florence (Bode) Slaats. She married John “Jack” J. Rokusek on July 5,1952. They were the proud parents of three daughters, Jan Marie, Jeralyn “Jeri”, and Jolene, and one son, Jay. Jack preceded her in death in 2018, and Jay in 1986.

There are not many people in the Dubuque area that Jill did not know. So many of you have touched Jill’s life in a positive way and she graced you with hers–her presence brought an energy that made it clear that “Jill was in the building.” Jill lived faithfully, loved deeply and gave generously. She led a very fulfilling life and was most uplifted if there was something she said or did that brought a smile to your face, made you laugh, or just made you feel good about yourself.

She was an active member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She was one of the first to be installed as Eucharistic Minister, and also ministered to the elderly and shut-ins. She was also a cross bearer at funerals. Jill was a member of the Alter and Rosary Society, a mentor at Holy Trinity School, and a member of the Seven Sisters Apostolate. She was active in the Prayer Line of the Holy Spirit Parish. Jill was also an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for over 60 years. She attended mass daily, and if she could not get to church, she watched mass on TV.

Jill was known as the “Hat Lady of Dubuque and Tri-States.” She enjoyed presenting “Creative Hat and Fashion Shows” for over 40 years. One of her highlights was presenting a hat show at the Governor’s Mansion in Des Moines, IA. Her biggest joy was giving all of her proceeds to charity, especially to Rev. Thomas Vos, a former pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church who built the first Catholic church in the Appalachian Mountains.

In her early years, Jill tap-danced with her three daughters and performed in several shows. Her love for tapping resurfaced as she tapped with musical performers at Stonehill.

Survivors include her three daughters, Jan Mussmann of Guttenberg, IA, Jeri (Terry) Noonan of Edmond, OK, and Jolene (Dave) Goedken of Potosi, WI; three grandchildren, Michelle Spadin, Angie Spadin, and Casey (Nikki) Noonan; two great-grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary Friedley; and two brothers, Merlin (Doris) Slaats, and Roger (Mary) Slaats.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son; one brother, Guerdon (Donna) Slaats; one sister, Betty (Jerome) Kuepers; one brother-in-law, Cletus (Germaine) Rokusek; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Lucille Rokusek.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name.

Jill’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of those who have had a positive presence in her life.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Jill’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.