Obituaries Archive

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Sr. Ann M. Harrington, BVM

Sister Ann M. Harrington, BVM, (St. Remi), 85, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Visitation and the Rite of Committal for natural burial wereFriday, Dec. 20, 2024. Burial was in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. Memorial services will be Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 1 p.m. followed by a Memorial Mass at 2 p.m.

Sister Ann ministered as a French and history professor and director of the Liberal Studies master’s program at Mundelein College, and as a history professor and director of the Asian Studies program at Loyola University, both in Chicago. She served as a secondary teacher in Wichita, Kans., and St. Louis. She authored several books including two about the history of the BVM congregation.

She was born July 15, 1939, in Milwaukee to Earl and Tonnita (Freiman) Harrington. She entered the BVM congregation Aug. 2, 1957, from Christ the King Parish, Milwaukee. She professed first vows on Feb. 3, 1960, and final vows on July16, 1965.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Helen Harrington, Mary (Eddie) Resch, and Kathleen “Katie” Harrington; brothers Thomas (Nancy), Timothy, and Joseph Harrington.  She is survived by a brother Michael Harrington, Dousman, Wis.; sister-in-law Marian “PeeWee” Harrington, Pewaukee, Wis., nieces, nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 67 years.

Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, 100 N 6th St, Bellevue, Iowa, 52031 is in charge of arrangements.

 


 

Jennie M. Potter

Jennie M. Potter, age 77, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly on Monday, December 16, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To honor Jennie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jennie was born on January 1, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Melvin N. and Laura M. (Maus) Ludovissy.

Jennie graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She married Robert Blocklinger Sr., on September 11, 1965, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral.  They had 3 children together, but he sadly preceded her in death on October 5, 1995.  Later in life, Jennie married Daniel Potter on August 12, 2000.  He would also precede her in death on June 4, 2001.  Jennie worked for several years as a bus driver for the Dubuque Community Schools.  In her free time, Jennie enjoyed playing Bingo, diamond painting and trying her luck at the casino.  She was a wiz in the kitchen.  Jennie loved catering and making big meals for family and friends.  She also liked to indulge in a little retail therapy, root on the Chicago Cubs and watch NASCAR races.  Jennie was very generous with her time, and often gave people rides to the grocery store or doctor’s appointments.  She loved spending time with her family, and especially enjoyed time spent with the grandkids and great-grandkids.  Jennie was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Jennie’s memory include

her children,
Robert (Roxane) Blocklinger, Jr., Omaha, NE,
Ronda (Richard) Davis, Dubuque, IA,
Kevin (Kim) Blocklinger Sr., Dubuque, IA
and Sarah (Joe Pavlik) Jordan, Huntsville, AL;

11 grandchildren,
Jeffrey (Kayla) Blocklinger, Laura (Wade) Wilson, Danelle (Mike) Conner, Ricky Garner, Kayla Heming, Kevin Blocklinger Jr., Josiah Pavlik, Eric Pavlik, Jamie Pavlik, Cameron Pavlik and Arturo Hernandez;

9 great-grandchildren;

and 2 brothers,
Bill (Sara) Ludovissy, Dubuque, IA
and Ron (Sherry) Ludovissy, Dubuque, IA.

Jennie was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Ludovissy; her mother and step-father, Laura and George Ludovissy; 2 husbands, Robert Blocklinger Sr. and Daniel Potter; and a great-grandson, Kyler Heming.

Jennie’s family would like to thank the MercyOne Dubuque Emergency Room staff for their compassionate care during this difficult time.  Also a special thanks to her close friends, Sue Harkness, Stephanie Schwartz and Mary Lou Woodward for their kindness and support throughout the years.

Greeting cards and memorials in Jennie’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jennie Potter Family.

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

 


 

Virginia L. Brown

Virginia L. Brown, 92, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2024.  Visitation will be from 2 to 4 pm Friday, December 20 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Funeral services will be held at Center Grove Church at a later date with burial in Center Grove Cemetery following.

Virginia was born February 7, 1932 in Sioux City, Iowa, daughter of William and Virginia (Meissner) Herron. She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1950.  She later graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Dubuque in December 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Special Education. She was also a member of the Kappa Delta Pi honor society.

On July 30, 1950, she married Robert S. Brown at Center Grove Church.  He preceded her in death on April 28, 1990.

After graduating from the University of Dubuque, Virginia worked at Peter Pan Pre-school, and was a substitute teacher for the Dubuque Public Schools, well into her 70’s.

Virginia was a lifelong member of Center Grove Methodist Church.  She was also a member of the United Methodist Women, as well as, PEO, Red Hat Society and DAR. She enjoyed reading, baking, gardening, playing cards and doing word puzzles. Virginia was also a prolific writer over much of her lifetime. She authored many church programs for both children and adults. She also wrote and performed routines based on her clown persona. While wintering in Texas, she wrote, produced, directed and starred in skits and plays for fellow residents in Mobile Gardens. Her most endearing writings were her compilation of several tomes of her family’s genealogy.

Virginia traveled extensively, with family and friends, both domestically and abroad. Having visited all of the United States except Alaska, she particularly enjoyed Mount Rushmore and the Badlands. Internationally, Virginia journeyed many times to most of Europe ; and spent two months traveling throughout New Zealand and Australia by car with her beloved brother, Kent. It was on this fabulous adventure that she fell in love with the Outback. Her most cherished trip, however, was to the Holy Land, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee.

One of the most important things in life to Virginia was her family. All she ever wanted was a family who loved and cared for one another. She nurtured all her relationships and made lasting impressions on everyone she met. She had a compassionate and loving effect on people and knew how to make people feel genuinely good about themselves. Virginia made everyone she crossed paths with to feel important and seen. She would really take time to listen and retain details about your life, thus making you feel like the most special person in the room. It’s no wonder she made so many endearing friendships throughout the entirety of her life.

Virginia  is survived by four children, Steve W. Brown of Dubuque, Carol (Greg) Dennison of Port Arthur, Texas, Scott R. (Karen) Brown of Peosta, and Stuart K. Brown of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Ashley, Dane and Grant (Jazmine) Dennison; Chenoa (Matt) Osweiler, Mathias Ginter and Nicole Henry; and Steffany (Bryan) Duhme; and eight great grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Kimberly Brown; and a brother, William Kent “Doc” Herron.

The family would like to thank Dr. Benjamin Kumor and his staff and the nurses and staffs at  Sunset Park Place, Hawkeye Care Center, UnityPoint Health – Finley and Hospice of Dubuque.

 


 

Harvey C. Seiler

Harvey C. Seiler, 84, of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away on Saturday December 14, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Saturday December 21, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Military Honors will be accorded at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery by the Bellevue American Legion Post #273 with burial to follow.

Harvey was born on June 29, 1940, in Dubuque, son of Herman and Caroline (Houselog) Sieler. He graduated from Maquoketa High School. Harvey farmed his whole life in the La Motte/Zwingle area, and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army from 1963-1965. He was a member of the Bellevue Legion Post #273. Harvey enjoyed hunting and being outdoors.

He is survived by his sister Mary Decker of Sherrill, Iowa, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Carl and Joe, and sisters Anna, Ada, Clara, Agnes, Edith, and Betty.

 


 

Mary Jo Sherman

Mary Jo Sherman, 87, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, surrounded by love and care.  True to her wishes, no services will be held.

Mary Jo always gave kindness and compassion to everyone she met.  There was nothing that meant more to her than family and friends.

In her final day, Mary Jo was care for with extraordinary compassion and dignity by the incredible staff at Ahva Living and Hospice of Dubuque.  The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all of the nurses, aides, and volunteers who brought so much comfort and peace during this time.  Your kindness and dedication will never be forgotten.  A special thank you to Ann at Ahva Living as well.

In lieu of services, the family asks that friends and loved ones honor Mary Jo’s memory by donating to your favorite charity, supporting Hospice of Dubuque, or spending time with loved ones.

Mary Jo’s legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her.

Online condolences for Mary Jo’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

 


 

Ardyce A. McCaw

Ardyce Ann McCaw, 79, of Panama City, FL, and formerly of Dubuque, passed away
Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at home.

Visitation will be from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm on Monday, December 23, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2155 University Ave., Dubuque, followed by a Funeral Service at 2:00 pm. Rev. Daniel Emmert will officiate. Interment will be in Linwood Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory.

Ardyce was born on December 22, 1944, in Butterfield, MN, the daughter of Waldo and Erma (Ewy) Linscheid. She married Fred H. McCaw on July 24, 1971, in Butterfield, MN.  He preceded her in death on August 2, 2006.

Ann valued the power of education, and she became a master teacher. She received her BA in Social Sciences from Fresno Pacific College and teaching certification from Seattle Pacific College. She earned an MA from the University of Iowa in Education – Elementary School Counseling and an MA from Clarke University in Education –Learning Disabilities. Ann received her PHD in Education from Drake University in 1998. After serving as a classroom teacher, she dreamed of helping students with educational challenges. Ann helped to prepare future educators by serving on the faculty of Loras College for 15 years as an associate professor, retiring in 2012. She also served as faculty at University of Dubuque and served as an education consultant for Key Stone Area Education Association specializing in learning disabilities.

Ann was always willing to follow her family on adventures, even when they seemed daunting or frightening, including hiking, backpacking, sailing, and canoeing. She loved international travel. She was able to take students on trips abroad to China and Peru to study educational practices. She also did sabbatical studies in New Zealand and presented research in Namibia. In her retirement she traveled extensively and hiked the Camino de Santiago Trail in France and Spain. Ann had a property on Madeline
Island in Lake Superior and loved to relax in the north woods.

Ann loved following and supporting the careers of her three children: Shana, and her husband Brent, as visual artists, Lindsay as a puppeteer and musician, and Evan as an aerospace engineer. She recently moved to Florida to be near her grandsons Owen and Oliver.

Ann will be remembered as a kind and gregarious person, who made people feel welcome and appreciated. She had many good friends in Dubuque, on Madeline Island, and in Florida. Her sweet nature, pleasant demeanor, and words of encouragement were appreciated and will be greatly missed.

Ardyce is survived by three children, Shana McCaw (Brent Budsberg) of Milwaukee, WI, Lindsay McCaw of Detroit, MI, and Evan (Hyo Jung Won) McCaw of Panama City Beach, FL, two grandchildren, Owen and Oliver McCaw of Panama City Beach, FL, two brothers, Lloyd (Jean) Linscheid and Richard (Charlotte) Linscheid, both of Butterfield, MN, brother-in-law Frank (Anne) McCaw of Denver, IA, sister-in-law Sara McCaw of Dubuque, IA, as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents Waldo and Erma Linscheid and her father and mother-in-law, Warren W. and Georgia E (Betty) McCaw.

Memorials can be sent to the Fred H. and Ardyce A. McCaw memorial fund care of Sara McCaw, 2057 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001.

 


 

Donald H. and Nancy A. Knockel

Donald H. “Clem” (80) and Nancy A. (Michels) (77) Knockel passed away just five days apart. Clem passed on December 8th at home, Nancy passed on December 13th at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital both with their family by their side.

A joint Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Saint Catherine Catholic Church in St. Catherine, Iowa with Fr. Andy Upah officiating. Their burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation for both will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a parish wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m. Additional visitation will be on Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. at the funeral home.

Clem was born on October 18, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Herbert and Evelyn (Weimerskirch) Knockel. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1962.

Nancy was born on July 1, 1947, in Bellevue, Iowa, daughter of Tom and Lorraine (Mueller) Michels. She graduated from Bellevue Marquette High School in 1965.

Clem and Nancy were married on September 18, 1965, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. In 1968, they purchased the family farm, where they built a life together. Clem balanced his passion for farming with a variety of careers, working as an excavator for FN Smith, working at Prairie Springs Woodworking, and co-owning St. Donatus Implement, all while tending to the farm. Nancy dedicated herself to the Dubuque Community School District as a school bus driver and worked at Happy’s Place, all while embracing her role as a devoted farmwife.

Farming was Clem’s lifelong passion. He was a proud early member of the Key West Sportsman’s Club and belonged to the local operator’s union and the Holy Name Society. In his free time, he enjoyed restoring tractors, going on tractor rides, and lending a hand with home projects for his children and grandchildren. During the winters when the weather was bad, Clem was always willing to help anyone out who needed a tow. 

Nancy brought energy and joy to everything she did. She loved playing softball and coaching the Little League. She also enjoyed games like horseshoes and cards, and cherished time spent with her grandchildren. Her happiest moments were when the entire family was gathered together.

The couple shared many interests, including their love for side-by-side rides and classic cars. Together, they were active members of St. Catherine’s Parish, a community that held a special place in their hearts.

Clem and Nancy’s legacy lives on with their children Cindi (Doug) Hirsch, Cheri ( Tim) Martens, Tom ( Sarah) Knockel and Keith (Karen) Knockel, grandchildren Staci (Howie) Lincoln, Jennifer (Tim) Jelinek, Emily (Erik) Odegard, Matthew (Tori) Hirsch, Korey Martens, Kelsey (Chad Cerny) Martens, Kaleb Martens, Katelyn (Antonio) Armstrong, Madison Knockel, Mitchell (Courtney) Knockel, Samantha Knockel, Jackie (Phil) Knockel, Dominick Knockel, Marrissa Knockel, and great grandchildren Lucy Lincoln, Lily Lincoln, Livi Lincoln, Chloe Jelinek, Leah Jelinek, Nahla Cerny, Laine Cerny, AJ Armstrong, Aliyah Armstrong, Ryder Knockel and Kynzlee Knockel. Clem is survived by his siblings Bonnie (Terry) Pfeiffer, Mike (Jeanne) Knockel, Pauline (Mark) Hancock, Sandy (Steve) Strub, Pam (Ron) Schuster and Teri (Michael) Chensky and siblings-in-law Linda Knockel and Bob Blum. Nancy is survived by her siblings Joanne Veach, Jim (Kate) Michels, Jeanette (Darel) Felderman, Barb (Terry) Jensen and Jeff (Barb) Michels and sister-in-law Gail Michels.

They were both preceded in death by their parents. Clem was preceded by two siblings Bill “Joker” Knockel and Linda “Lefty” Blum, and his niece Becky Blum. Nancy was preceded in death by her brother Greg Michels, brother-in-law Jack Veach, and nephew Jason Veach.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their amazing care of dad, the UnityPoint Finley ICU nurses and staff for their loving care of mom, and to Deanna Michels for being the best home care giver.

 


 

Mary L. Ambrosia

Mary L. Ambrosia, age 70, of Elizabeth, IL, was peacefully called home to her Lord and Savior on December 15, 2024, while at home surrounded by her loving family. To honor Mary’s life, a Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 411 West Catlin Street in Elizabeth, IL, with Pastor Mike Nesbit officiating. Family and friends of Mary are invited to join in fellowship from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church. A private family burial will be at the Woodbine Cemetery at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on March 25, 1954, in Freeport, IL, one of eleven children to William F. and Mary M. “Mac” (Meyerhofer) Knauer. She was undeniably gifted with a love for family and friends, a devotion to her faith, and an unwavering allegiance to all that is good in this world. Mary was united in marriage to her soul-mate, Joseph Ambrosia, on August 31, 1975, at St. Paul Lutheran Church. She always found great pride in the fact that her family played a very intricate role in the building and development of St. Paul Lutheran Church and now the family of her own would follow right in those earlier footsteps. Mary was a lifetime member of St. Paul’s and faithfully lived the life of a servant in her 70 years among us. She sang in the church choir, taught Sunday school, was the children’s choir director, helped with vacation Bible school, was a director for the Christmas program and also held the position of President of the Ladies Guild for a time. Mary’s heart was truly devoted in her ministry of service to her Lord and her faith community. Her discipleship was truly through action.

Mary was also talented when it came to finance. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree and soon found that her skills fit perfectly as a tax advisor and preparer. Mary gratefully invested her time and talents with the Apple River State Bank for many years, but primarily owned and operated Mary’s Tax and Financial Services for over 35 years. She enjoyed her work and made countless friends along the way. Mary was also an avid baker and never passed up the opportunity to bless her family and those around her whenever possible. Her scotcheroos and cinnamon rolls were legendary and the world is truly a lesser place without her adding a little pinch of extra love into everything she made.

It’s with absolutely heavy laden and broken hearts that we must say farewell for now to our beloved Mary, but we know that her 14 ݣears of battling cancer so courageously was a battle that must end. She thankfully now resides in eternal perfection, free from all the evils of this temporal world and in that fact, we can find real peace.

Thank you, Mary, for always leadingby example, never surrendering even when it would have been all so justified, and for leaving so much love and light in your midst that even the generations left to follow will be blessed in their lifetimes. May the Lord bless you and keep you until we all meet again and we hope the first words you heard this morning were “Well done, good and faithful Servant. You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord!”

Those left to cherish the memory of Mary include her loving husband of over 49 years, Joe Ambrosia, Elizabeth, IL; her three children, Jacob (Amanda) Ambrosia, Elizabeth, IL, Nichole Ambrosia, Elizabeth, IL, and Michael (Calista) Ambrosia, Kernersville, NC; her five grandchildren, Brecklyn, Bexley, Brixen, Aria, and Griff.

Her siblings Dale Knauer, Monroe, WI; Janet Roberts, Elizabeth, IL; Carole Busjahn, Cedarville, IL; Robert “Bob” Knauer, Yorkville, IL; Paul (Ruth) Knauer, Elizabeth, IL; Lyle Knauer, Kansas City, MO; sister-in-law Kathy (Heller) Knauer, Lacon, IL; Judy (Don) Kaufman, Winslow, IL; and James (Cheryl) Knauer, Elizabeth, IL; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, David Knauer; her sister and brother-in-law, Betty (Tom) Marcure; her sisters-in-law, Mary “Penny” Knauer, and Jennifer Knauer; and her brothers-in-law, Wendell Roberts, and Lewis Busjahn; her nieces, Trudy Knauer and LuAnn Jordan; and her great-nephews, Chris Knauer and Dustin Jordan.

In lieu of flowers, a Mary L. Ambrosia memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

Mary’s family would like to thank Dr. Mary Koenigs and her staff, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  A special thank you to Pastor Mike Nesbit at St. Paul Lutheran Church for his spiritual support and guidance.

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

 


 

JoAnn Hesselbacher

JoAnn Hesselbacher, 81, of Galena, IL passed away peacefully Sunday morning, December 15, 2024 at Midwest Senior Care Center.  She completed her earthly journey surrounded by her family.  A visitation will be held Friday December 20th from 3pm – 7pm and Saturday, December 21st from 9am – 10:15am at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 536 E. Schapville Rd.  Scales Mound, IL 61075.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30am at the church with burial of the cremated remains to follow at the St. John’s Guilford Cemetery.  Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is assisting the family with arrangements.

JoAnn was born May 6, 1943, at Hazel Green Hospital, WI, to Joseph and Marieta (Smart) Pope.  She married Keith Hesselbacher on August 23, 1969 at the United Methodist Church in Galena, IL.  She graduated from Galena High School in 1961 and later obtained her RN from Freeport Nursing School and her BSN from Chicago Circle Campus.  She started her nursing career at Galena Stauss Hospital where she had many roles including inservice coordinator.  During that time she also taught a CNA course at Galena High School, as well as many Lamaze, CPR, and Freedom from Smoking classes.  She continued her career at JoDaviess County Health Dept., Kreider Services, Midwest Senior Care Center and the JoDaviess County Workshop.

You would often find JoAnn reading, shopping, gardening, taking photos, watching grandchildren, and enjoying her time with family.  The one thing she did not enjoy was “The Farm” and she made sure everyone knew it!  She went along with it for all these years, though, because she loved her husband very much.

She is survived by her husband, Keith, her daughter Sarah, and her son Eric (Nikki); her grandchildren who were her most precious gifts- TJ, Sam, Gwen, Augie, Sadie, Elodie and Archie; her sister Donna Wilmarth and nephew David (Heidi); sister-in-law Sharon Phillips and nieces Joellyn (Don) and Vicki; and her great-nephews Ben, Aidan and Evon, and her great-niece Eden.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law William C. Wilmarth.

The family wishes to thank Margo Dworak, Dr. Koenigs and staff at Medical Associates, the staff at Midwest Senior Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for their extraordinary care and compassion.

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

 


 

Sr. Suzanne Effinger, BVM

Sister Suzanne Effinger, BVM, (Frances Carol), 92, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024.
Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.
Sister Suzanne ministered as an elementary teacher and principal in Chicago; Round lake, Ill.; and Kansas City, Mo. She also served as assistant principal in Waukegan, Ill., and as an elementary teacher in St. Louis and Glendale, Calif. She was an adult literacy instructor and a hospice volunteer in Milwaukee.
She was born on June 24, 1932, in Milwaukee to Frank and Frances (Reichert) Effinger. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1950, from St. Sabastian Parish, Milwaukee. She professed first vows on March 19, 1953, and final vows on July 16, 1958.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers James (Randi), Thomas (Vi), David (Marion) and John (Mickey) Effinger; sisters Janet (Bob) Eiff and Mary Ann Effinger.
She is survived by nieces and nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 74 years.
Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, 100 N 6th St, Bellevue, Iowa, 52031 is in charge of arrangements.

 


 

Harold J. Greve

Harold J. “Uncle Bud” Greve, age 73, of Dubuque, passed away at 5:10 a.m., on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Sunnycrest Manor.  There will be a graveside service at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at St. Catherine Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Bud was born on May 15, 1951, in Manchester, Iowa, the son of Elmer and Rosemary (Kieler) Greve.

Bud worked as a farmhand for his entire life.  In his younger days, he enjoyed fishing and being outside.  He also enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and did a great Pat Sajak imitation.  Bud was a jokester and always gave the staff at Sunnycrest unique nicknames.  He will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Bud’s memory include

his siblings,
Earl Greve
and Wayne Greve, both of Dubuque;

and several nieces and nephews.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 siblings, Carol Ann Greve and Ronald J. Greve.

Bud’s family would like to thank all of his care givers at Sunnycrest for their kindness and the wonderful care they have provided for Bud these past years.  Also thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Greeting cards and memorials in Bud’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Harold “Bud” Greve Family.

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

 


 

V. Marian A. Maurizi

V. Marian Anderberg Maurizi, 90, of Rockford, IL, and formerly of Galena, passed away peacefully from natural causes on Thursday, December 12, 2024, in Rockford. A funeral service will be held at noon on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may call from 11 AM until the service. The burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Galena.

Marian was born on February 8, 1934, in Council Hill Township, the daughter of Percy and Vera (Zeal) Anderberg. She graduated from Galena High School in 1952. On April 12, 1975, Marian married Vincent Maurizi, who preceded her in death on September 7, 2011. Her first job was as a switchboard operator for Illinois Bell in Galena, and she dedicated her entire working career to the company until she retired from the Rockford office.

Marian is survived by her siblings, Richard “Dick” Anderberg of Galena, Maxine (Kenneth) VandeDrink of Elgin, IL, and Malcolm (Leah Mae) Anderberg of Kirkland, IL, as well as her nieces and nephews, Greg and Doug VandeDrink, Jeff and Eric Anderberg, Todd Jacobs, Michelle Anderberg-Simpson, Nadine Anderberg-Bonnin, and Natalie Jacobs-Christopher.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother named John who died at eight months old, a sister, Shelby Jean Jacobs, a sister-in-law, Virginia Pooley-Anderberg, a brother-in-law, Don Jacobs, and a nephew, Brad VandeDrink.

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

 


 

Charles G. Greve

Charles (Charlie) G. Greve, 86, of Holy Cross, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at home.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross, Iowa. Visitation will continue Saturday morning from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by Scherrman-Peterson American Legion Post 656 . Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Charles was born on January 5, 1938, in Bagley, WI the son of Joseph and Anna (Jaeger) Greve. He served honorably in the United States Army, from 1961 to 1963 in Germany. Charles was united in marriage to Darlene Adams on July 15, 1961 in Dubuque, Iowa. She preceded him in death May 17, 1986.  He was united in marriage to Judith (Bailey) Doerr on October 16, 1987.  He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years retiring in 1992.  Charles bought his farm by Holy Cross in 1972. He loved Life to the fullest and some knew him as “Lucky Chucky”.  He always had a contagious smile and brought laughter wherever he was.  He loved farming, playing cards, traveling, gambling and most of all his family.  He adored all of his grandchildren.  Charlie and Judy did lots of traveling over the years and back in the day he loved his beer and making homemade wine.  Charles went on the honor flight in 2022.  Charles was a member of the Holy Cross Catholic Church and UAW Local 94. Charles will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Charles is survived by his loving wife, Judith Greve of Holy Cross; Children: Christine (Larry) Cornell of Bankston, Denny (Sherry) Greve of Dubuque, Jean (Mark) Theis of Ossian, Judy (Rob) Millius of Dubuque, Allan Greve of Holy Cross, and a step daughter Robin (Diana) Childress of Coralville; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and step great-grandchildren; three sisters: Rose Baker of Dubuque, Anna Reinhardt of Guttenberg and Sharon (Bill) Boge of Dubuque; in-laws: Norma Greve, Betty Greve, Cheryl Mason, Roger Bailey, Carol Hines and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Darlene; daughter, Donna (Phillip) Ennis; parents, Joseph and Anna Greve; two sisters, Mardell (Larry) Meisner and Ilene (Dick) Powell; and five brothers, Elmer (Rose) Greve, Junior Greve, Edward (Marlene) Greve, Robert (Vera) Greve, and Lavern Greve; in-laws: Sarge Baker, Walter Reinhardt, Doug Mason, Marjorie (Ernie) Martens, Dale (Lorraine) Adams, Pearl Bailey, Merlin (Tyke) Bailey and Chuck Hines.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Home Instead for their amazing care for Charlie.

Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

 


 

Joanne G. Mauer

Joanne G. Mauer, age 84, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on December 13, 2024, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To honor Joanne’s life, a memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Mueller Memorial Chapel at Linwood Chapel, 2736 Windsor Avenue in Dubuque, with the Very Rev. Dennis J. Quint officiating.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joanne’s family.

Joanne was born on December 4, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Arty and Mary (Riley) Mootz.  She was undeniably the matriarch of Camp Mauer where her and her husband, Tim, graciously opened the doors of their home to countless young men and women over the years who simply needed a loving home and stable parental figures in their lives.  Her love and devotion for others was continually on display and ultimately played a significant role in so many kids coming of age.  Her skills in the kitchen were second to none and no doubt there are many folks out there who today can still conjure in their minds the aroma of her warm lasagna coming out of the oven, her dumplings rising to perfection, and her panzerotti’s making their way to the plates only waiting to be served.

Joanne was also one of the first Hockey Mom’s for the Dubuque Fighting Saints.  Many young players had a comfortable home to live, eat and sleep in when Joanne was at the helm.  When Joanne wasn’t rescuing the kiddos in the community around her, you could usually find her assisting Jim Wand with his hypnotist empire.  She was the magic behind the curtain for many years and always enjoyed all of the fun and excitement that came along with her career there.  Joanne lived a full life indeed and did her best to make the world around her a better place wherever she could.  We will miss her generous heart and can thankfully find peace that she and Tim are now reunited for eternity after only a few months apart.  Thank you, Joanne for all of the love and kindness you shared throughout your 84 years among us and may the Lord grant you peace within His loving and grace-filled arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joanne include,

her children,
Jolene (Mike) Raffensperger, Iowa City, IA,
and T.J. Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter-in-law,
Renee Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

special friend,
Lori Dee-Duve, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Michael Plumtree, Zachary Mauer, and Tara Mauer;

her great-granddaughter,
Aubrey Plumtree;

her sisters-in-law;
Diane Mauer Hetzler and Harold, Grays Lake, IL,
Dorine Mauer, Dubuque, IA;
and Margie Mootz, Dubuque, IA;

her niece,
Vicki Woodyard, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Timothy M. “Tim” Mauer; her parents, Arty Mootz, and Delbert and Mary (Riley) Brittingham; her mother and father-in-law, Carl “Red” and Dora (Zuber) Mauer; and her siblings, Ginny (Merle) Knable, Cletus Mootz, and Margaret (David) Ehlers.

Joanne’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Care Initiatives Hospice for all of their kind and compassionate care.

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

 


 

Darlene Pfiffner

Darlene “Mert” Pfiffner, 89, of Dubuque, died Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Darlene will be 10:30 am Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant.

Darlene was born May 13, 1935, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Elmer and Marie (Zugenbuehler) Friedell. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque in 1953. On September 6, 1958, she married Jerry Pfiffner in Dubuque.

Darlene was a religious education teacher at the Church of the Nativity in Midland Park, NJ, a volunteer at the youth shelter in Laguna Beach, CA, and a PTA volunteer in Midland Park, NJ, where she was affectionately known as “the plant lady.” She also played on bowling leagues in Iowa, New Jersey, and California. Above all, she cherished spending time with her family.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry; her four children, Christian (Dee) Pfiffner of Reno, NV; Rachel (Scott) Olson of Hillsdale, NJ; Mark Pfiffner of Dubuque; and Paula (Brad) Mason of Ridgewood, NJ; five grandchildren, Robert Olson, Grace Olson, Bennett Mason, Grant Mason and Reed Mason; one brother, Rev. Ronald  Friedell; three sisters-in-law, Carol Hannan, Connie Anwar-Pfiffner, and Mary Kay (Don) Sisler; and one brother-in-law, Tom Pfiffner.

Besides her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by four siblings, Rev. John Friedell, Rose Mary (John) McGovern, Lois (Bill) Burds, and Anita Uebelhart; brothers- and sisters-in-law, William Hannan, Keith Anwar, and Irma Pfiffner.

Darlene’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque.

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 Darlene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

 


 

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