Obituaries Archive

Dr. Edwin A. Whitfield

Edwin (Ed) Whitfield, 83, of Overland Park, Kansas died on June 3, 2021 at KC Hospice House.  Ed was born to Edwin Allen and Mathilda (Richard) Whitfield on November 10, 1937 in Dubuque, Iowa.  Throughout his life he returned to Dubuque, a place he loved, to enjoy the city, the Mississippi River, and the family he treasured.

Ed graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque.  He received a B.A. degree from Loras College, a M.Ed. from Ohio University at Athens, and a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa.  Ed began his long and beloved career in Guidance and Counseling with the San Diego Department of Education.  His passion for research, writing, and editing resulted in his being sought to consult and lead in his chosen field on the state and national level. His publications and leadership positions were numerous and included founder and first editor of the California Personnel and Guidance Journal.  In 1984 his career took him to Columbus, Ohio where he served education as an Associate Director with the State of Ohio Department of Education.  He was elected President of the National Career Development Association, served on the Ohio University Alumni Association, and was President of the Ohio Career Development Association.  Even after his retirement he volunteered to serve and lead publications in his chosen academic field.

While reading, learning and writing were his passions Ed still found time to enjoy gardening, golfing, fishing, and sharing his quiet wit and dry humor with friends and family.  He was a gentle and generous man who was preceded in death by his five siblings: Anne Genthe (Earl), Dorothy Frommelt, June Ackman (George), Richard Whitfield (Carla), and Robert Whitfield (Robyn).  He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Marjorie (Metzger), children Shauna Grayson (David), Hallie Palomares (Travis), and Eric Whitfield.  He also leaves three grandchildren. His many nieces and nephews were dear to him, especially his sister Anne’s children: Gary Genthe, Leann (Steve) Sabers, Susan Genthe, Nancy (Dale) Meyer, Mark Genthe and Jeff Genthe. Their attention and remembrances brought him great joy and comfort during his long illness.

A private memorial will be held at a future date in Dubuque, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Ed’s favorite charity St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org) or to the Patton College of Education Scholarship Endowment, Ohio University, P.O. Box 869, Athens, OH 45701.

Please visit www.mcgilleyhoge.com to leave online condolences for the family.

Elmer C. Klar

Elmer C. “Fritz” Klar, 67, of Hazel Green, WI passed away on July 4th, 2021, at home.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 9th, 2021, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Derek Rosenstiel officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church until time of service. Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Elmer was born on February 12, 1954, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Isadore and Kathryn (Jerrett) Klar. He graduated from Cuba City High School in 1972, received his Bachelor of Science Degree in 1983 from UW – Platteville, and in 1996 received his Master of Science – Cardinal Stritch.

Elmer had a career in Safety Management at John Deere, and Solae, Texas Petrochemicals and Dupont.

Fritz married Rhonda Hingtgen in 1976 and they had two sons, Jerrett and Jeffrey. His sons were his pride and joy both as children and as adults. He had a great passion for the outdoors. He spent time hunting, fishing, playing golf and riding his Harley.

In 2010 he married Joanne in Pryor, OK. When Fritz retired in 2016 they moved to Texas to spend winters and returned to Wisconsin every summer. He left us all with great memories to hold in our hearts forever.

He is survived by his wife Joanne Klar; two sons Jerrett (Jacquelyn) Klar, of Hickory Creek, TX, and Jeffrey (Nikki) Klar, of Dubuque; his brother James Klar, of Benton, WI, sister Christine (Ron) Schlosser, of Dubuque, stepdaughter Jennifer (Nick) Deutsch, of Houston, Texas; stepson Daniel Pitts, of Willis, Texas; grandchildren, Vivienne and Winston Klar and Andrew Fritz Klar (his name sake); step-grandchildren Makenzie Pitts, Ella, Adelyn and Henry Deutsch, many loved nieces and nephews and Arnold Alt who held a special place in Fritz’s heart.

Fritz was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Joseph Klar and Bob Mether.

Memorials may be given to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or the American Brain Tumor Association.

A special thank you to Kim Martens of Grant County Hospice for her loving and compassionate care. Also, to pastor Derek of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church for his spiritual guidance.

Rebecca M. Shady

Rebecca M. “Becky” Shady, 61, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday afternoon, July 2, 2021, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus in Davenport, Iowa.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating “Becky’s” life will be held from 4 to 6 P.M. on Friday, July 9, 2021 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the gathering and a private burial will be held at Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Rebecca Meta Streets was born on May 22, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Dale Eugene and Caroline Bridget (Hintz) Streets.  She was a 1978 graduate of Delwood High School.

“Becky” had various jobs through the years most notably at Casey’s, Kentucky Fried Chicken and for the longest time at Take Two Video in Maquoketa.

“Becky” enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, and the other love of her life, Steve Rowan.  She also liked ATV riding, going on country drives and mowing.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, John (Danielle) Streets of Maquoketa, Dale (and fiance April Frost) Shady of Maquoketa, IA, and Stephanie (fiance Ben Koontz) of Maquoketa, IA; 4 grandchildren, Prescott, Brennin, Adan and Isabell; brothers, Ron (Pearl) Streets of Fulton, IL, and Robert (Lori) Streets of Greene, IA; and a very special friend, Steve Rowan.  She was preceded in death by her parents Dale and Caroline, sister Rhonda, and a grandchild Caroline Streets.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rebecca M. “Becky” Shady memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert A. Biermann

Robert A. Biermann, 85 of Farley, Iowa, passed away Monday, July 5, 2021 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Bob will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, July 8, 2021 at the Reiff funeral Home in Farley, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.  Anyone unable to attend may send cards to the Reiff Funeral Home, Attn: Robert Biermann family, P.O. Box 99, Farley, Iowa, 52046.

Services for Bob will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 9, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding and Rev. Carl Ries concelebrating.  The services will be live streamed on the St. Elizabeth Pastorate Facebook page.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

He was born March 30, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Raymond and Dorothy (Ries) Biermann.  He went to school in Farley and Epworth graduating from the 8th grade.  On August 3, 1957 he was united in marriage to LaVonne Jaeger at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa.  As a young man, he worked for various farmers, worked construction and finally worked at John Deere Dubuque Works.  He retired from John Deere in 1989 as an electrician.  He also ran his own business, Biermann Electric until he was 65.

Robert loved to tinker with tools that contractors and friends would bring him to fix.  He could fix just about anything!  He was always ready to help anyone that needed an extra hand.  He loved spending time with his family.  The time spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren brought him the most joy.

Robert was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001 and the Dubuque County 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573.  He was a member of the United Automobile Workers Local 94.

He is survived by his wife, LaVonne Biermann of Farley, IA; one son, Jeff (Jean) Biermann of Cascade, IA; four granddaughters, Amy (Adam) Hoffman, Trisha (Mitch) Knipper, Melissa (Corey) Schulz, and Ashley (John) Garde; four great grandchildren, siblings, Don (Janet) Biermann of Dubuque, LeRoy (Shirley) Biermann of Peosta, Ken (Donna) Biermann of Farley, Paul (Kathy) Biermann of Epworth, Marilyn (Dave) Hawkins of Cascade, and Mark Biermann of Dubuque; one sister-in-law, Doris Biermann of Epworth.

He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Geri Kay (Ralph) Clemen; son, Daniel Biermann; brother, Dave Biermann; brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald (Nadine & Kay) Jaeger, Louie (Rita) Jaeger, Mary Lou (Francis) Schilling, Betty (Walter) Steger, Ann (Mark) Winter, and Janice Staner.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolence sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Alfred W. Zetzsche

Alfred W. “Al” Zetzsche, age 74, of Galena, Illinois, completed his earthly journey on July 3, 2021, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Al’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Al’s family.

Al was born on October 24, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, a son to Fritz and Helen (Glowacki) Zetzsche.  He grew up with the dream of making the most out of life and having a family of his own to raise, provide for, and nurture under his concrete example of the proven principles which lead to success.  Al was a naturally gifted basketball player throughout his life, and was proud to be the team captain for the DePaul Blue Demons in the 1968 season.  He soon completed his Bachelor’s Degree and eventually began climbing the executive ladder with Allstate Insurance.  He faithfully invested over 22 years of his working career there until his much-deserved retirement had finally arrived in 1993.  Al also knew how to embrace the quieter moments in life as well.  Family and friends were always his top priority, but if a little spare time happened to find its way into the day, you could easily find Al working on the catch of the day when the fish were biting.  He was also a very talented woodworker who never met a project he couldn’t perfect.  He patiently and precisely created beautiful pieces of furniture which adorn almost every room in their home today, and the testament to the skills Al possessed are visible almost everywhere you look both inside and out.  Al lived an abundantly full life and continued to fight as much as he could when his health issues began to present themselves.  We will miss his determined spirit more than he could ever know, but we also seek peace for our broken hearts in the knowledge that he does not have to fight even one more day now.  Thank you, Al, for leaving behind such an amazing legacy of memories for us to treasure until we see you again, and may peace be yours until that day as well.  

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Al include,

his loving wife,
Donna Walgren, Galena, Illinois;

his adored children,
Kristine Adrowski, Arlington Heights, Illinois,
and Brian Zetzsche, Tampa, Florida;

his step-daugher,
Jenny (Tony) Schimka, Clermont, Florida;

his beloved grandchildren,
Jeremy Adrowski, Justin Adrowski, Addison Adrowski, Hannah Zetzsche, and Abby Zetzsche;

his step-grandchildren,
Nicole Schimka and Dylan Schimka;

his brother,
Paul (Barbara) Zetzsche, Mt. Prospect, Illinois;

his nephews,
Scott (Becky) Zetzsche, DesPlaines, Illinois,
and Tim (Lindsey) Zetzsche, Rochester, Minnesota;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Al was preceded in death by his parents. 

Al’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, along with all of the doctors and staff who have helped Al throughout his medical battles over the recent years.  Your professionalism and compassion have made a very difficult situation just a little more tolerable when we needed it most. 

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

Donald J. Temperly

Donald J. Temperly, 90, Galena, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM, on Saturday, July 17, 2021, at Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where family and friends may gather after 9:30 AM, until the time of service. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Donald was born on August 14, 1930, in rural Galena, the son of Irvin and Adele (Foecking) Temperly. He was raised on the family farm and lived and worked in the Galena area his entire life. Donald attended Galena schools and retired from Kraft Foods in 1991. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Galena Elks Lodge. Donald was most proud of his family, and he treasured the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and extended family. To keep his mind sharp, he enjoyed completing crosswords and sudoku puzzles. For excitement, he loved watching sports, especially the Atlanta Braves, and an occasional visit to the casino was a favorite activity. He was a very caring father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend with a great sense of humor.

Those left to remember him are his son, Terry (Deborah) Temperly; a daughter, Cindy (Tom) Knuckey; two granddaughters: Taylor and Lauren Knuckey; a sister, Marita Watson (Dave Smith); and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and neighbors. Donald was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Eugene Watson.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at Mercy One of Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and support during this time.

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

Edna D. Abresch

Edna D. Abresch, 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on July 2, 2021 at Stonehill Health Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 6th, 2021 at St. Catherine Catholic Church with Father David Ambrosy officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday, July 5th, 2021 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:45 p.m.

Edna was born on July 29, 1937 in Bloomington, Wisconsin, the daughter of Adolph and Marie Wallenhorst. She graduated from high school, traveled and at one point even studied to become a nun, though those plans changed. She married Leroy Abresch on October 29, 1960 at St. Andrew’s Church in Tennyson, Wisconsin. They got right to work, and five rambunctious children followed. Lots of love, laughter and life filled a small ranch home on St. Catherine’s main road. Many times her first question as her children and any of the many childhood friends filed by a busy kitchen was, “Are you hungry?” Another staple in Edna’s life was her faith, she made sure her children attended church services every Sunday. One of he of her ‘go to’ lines when misbehaviors occurred was, “Now you will have to go to confession!”  She volunteered at many church functions and was a wonderful role model in every way. She was a Girl Scout Troop leader and loved to organize activities for them. Throughout the years she fought cancer bravely in many forms- we lost track of the times she had surgery to remove tumors and cancerous body organs, with nary a complaint.

Edna retired from Mercy Medical Center, working 28 years in the dietary department. She was a supervisor in later years and proud of her contributions, from home to the hospital kitchens, no doubt she helped feed many over the years. Her most favorite of all hobbies was fishing and she usually out-fished Leroy to his happy disdain. A fish fry followed feeding countless of family and friends. She also enjoyed camping at Massey and Cassville. She enjoyed crocheting blankets, making doilies that were generously shared with family and friends. She loved her cats, BeeBee and DeeDee.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Leroy Abresch, children, Deanna (Andy) Tomkins, Timothy Abresch, Bill (Diem) Abresch, Steve Abresch, and Sara Bartella, a sister, Jeanette Sedbrook and by her brother, Francis Wallenhorst. She was proud of her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Edna was preceded in death by her parents Adolph and Marie Wallenhorst, her sisters Florentine Abing, and Patricia Heer and a grandchild, Steven Tomkins, who surely met his grandma at those pearly gates.

Memorials may be directed to the Abresch family.

We wish to thank the many healthcare workers who have been part of Edna’s care. We especially want to thank Hospice, especially Nurses, Jennifer, Katie and Nikki, social worker there, and of course- Stonehill Health Care Center personnel for taking such kind care of Mom in a difficult time.

Lauretta R. Gabriel

Lauretta “Lori” Rae Gabriel of Platteville, Wisconsin passed away at home on July 2, 2021 with her husband by her side. To celebrate Lori’s life, family and friends may visit July 6th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque. A meal to celebrate her life will immediately follow.

Lori was born in Norfolk, Virginia on April 1st to Myrtle and Jess Altop. Later she was adopted by Ronald Nelson, who was a wonderful father for 60 years. On August 1, 1987, Lori married Theodore “Ted” Gabriel with whom she spent over 35 wonderful years.

She enjoyed her flowers, gardening, and cooking for all. Lori was an excellent baker and loved sharing that passion with her six grandchildren. Weekends were often spent camping with Ted. Lori was also blessed with being a foster parent for Joshua Matthew for over ten years.

She is survived by her husband, Ted Gabriel; 3 children, Bret (Lisa) Patterson of Hazel Green, WI; Nicole “Niki” (Steve) Davis of Dubuque, IA; and Nicole (Rob) Lancaster of Roberts, WI; and six grandchildren: Bryant, Colton, Corey, Kirstin, Carter and Wyatt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Myrtle Nelson; father and mother-in-law Wayne and Eunice Gabriel; her sister, Rita Keever; sister-in-law, Karla Gabriel; her foster child Joshua Matthew and her aunt, Carol of Wyoming.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up by the family.

The family would like to send a special thanks to Dr. Hermann, Tony Heiar and the Grand River Medical Group Oncology Department and the staff of Hospice of Dubuque for the compassionate care they provided.

Phyllis L. Naumann

Phyllis L. (Ouderkirk) Naumann, age 86, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 7:20 p.m., on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center with her loving family at her side.  To celebrate Phyllis’ life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 8, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Phyllis’ life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, July 9, 2021, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street, with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia, Iowa, at a later date following cremation.

Phyllis was born on December 8, 1934, in Durango, Iowa, daughter of Francis “Lloyd” and Dolores (Hilkin) Ouderkirk.

Phyllis was united in marriage to the love of her life, Gerald Naumann, on October 30, 1954, at St. John the Baptist Church in Peosta.  They were truly blessed with 64 years of marriage and 8 wonderful children, before Gerry was sadly called home before Phyllis on December 21, 2018.  Phyllis was no stranger to hard work in her lifetime.  Not only did she run the family home and raise the children, she also devoted 20 years to working in the food service department for the Dubuque Community Schools.  She was an excellent cook and baker, a trait her family greatly appreciated.  She also loved inviting everyone over to spend time together and have dinner on Tuesday nights.  Phyllis was a faith filled woman who was a long time member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.  She was also a member of St. Jude’s Circle and a former member of the Dubuque Bowling 600 Club.  Everyone who knew her knew that Phyllis liked to stay active.  She enjoyed bowling, golfing and regularly went hiking at Swiss Valley, the Mines of Spain and Heritage Trail.  Phyllis also enjoyed watching sports, especially her St. Louis Cardinals and Green Bay Packers.  More than anything Phyllis loved to spend time with her family and regularly traveled to visit the kids who lived out of town too.  Phyllis was a kind and caring woman who definitely made the world around her a better place.  We will miss her terribly, but know that she is now happily reunited with her beloved Gerry for Eternity.

Those left to cherish Phyllis’ memory include

her children,
Mary Schneider, Hazel Green, WI,
Eugene (Sherry) Naumann, Hanover, IL,
Marvin (Michelle) Naumann, Baltimore, MD,
Michael (Karri) Naumann, Orlando, FL,
David (Julie) Naumann, Dubuque, IA,
Kathy Vaughn, Dubuque, IA,
Randy (Amy) Naumann, Peosta, IA
and Janet Naumann, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her 13 grandchildren,
Kayla (Andy), Micah, Josiah, Katie, Amber (Jojo), Matthew, Danielle, Shawn (Jessica), Kevin Michael, Sam, Gabe, Max, Eli;

her 7 great-grandchildren;

and her siblings,
Francis “Fran” (Arleen) Ouderkirk, Sherrill, IA,
Pat (John) Oberman, Dubuque, IA
and Dennis (Lisa) Ouderkirk, Fargo, ND.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gerald Naumann; her sister, Jeanette (James) Schmitt; her brother, Rev. Paul Ouderkirk; 2 sons-in-law, Steve Schneider and Kevin Vaughn; and by Tony Smith.

Phyllis’ family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of Stonehill for the kind and professional care they have given Phyllis these past weeks.

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

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

Robert J. Grass-Schubert

Robert James “Butch” Grass-Schubert, 76, of Shullsburg, WI, and formerly Galena, IL, passed away from Parkinson’s related complications on Friday, July 2, 2021, at Azura Memory Care in Monroe, WI. A funeral service will be held at 1 pm, Friday, July 9, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may call after 11 AM until the time of service.  Interment will be in Prospect Hill Cemetery, rural Galena.

Butch was born December 30, 1944, in Galena, the son of Robbie M. and Catherine “Babe” Schubert. He married Barbara Sue Grass of Dubuque, IA, on May 31, 1991.  Although his wife opted to keep her maiden name, Butch insisted on changing his name as well so that there was never any doubt that they were married.  Both agreed to Grass-Schubert.

Living and working throughout most of his life as a self-employed mechanic, millwright, and gunsmith, he had an endless career building boats, airboats and Harley motorcycles for customers that would find it hard to forget his colorful demeanor.  He was definitely the epitome of a biker from days of future’s past. He was also an excellent, knowledgeable, and ardent gunsmith, and an uncanny marksman.  Butch also ran a marina with his parents at the Galena Ferry Landing since 1955, attributing his mechanical aptitude to his father and his guide and fishing skills to his mother.  The Schubert’s were people who definitely lived off the land.  Hunting and trapping were also a big part of his early life – with duck hunting being his favorite game sport. Butch had a live for today attitude and was extremely passionate about everything he did – good, bad, or ugly.  He could be a pretty intense individual with a commitment to precision and accuracy that was unparalleled.  He had a photographic memory that would not allow him to be anything less. He worked hard, played hard, loved hard and was hard in so many ways – but he had a huge heart, and he was always there for anyone who needed help in any way. Butch was not someone you’d ever forgot once you met him.

Survivors include his wife Barbara Sue of 30 years; a daughter, Christine (Mark) Leifker of Benton; a sister, Catherine “Katie” (Mack) Bond of Imboden, AR; two granddaughters, Brandi (Caleb) Burgess and Amber (Alex) Velasquez, both of Lancaster, WI; two great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by a former spouse, Nancy (John) Phillips of Galena.

He was preceded in death by a son, Chad; two older brothers, Donald and Edward; and his parents.

Special thanks goes to the staffs at Azura Memory Care and the Monroe Hospital, both in Monroe, Wisconsin. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Lorin J. Hager

Lorin Joseph Hager died peacefully, surrounded by family, on June 20, 2021, at St. Rose Siena Hospital in Henderson, NV. He was 88 years old. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue at 10 AM on July 28, 2021. The Rite of Committal and burial will follow at the Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, IL.

He was born on August 20, 1932, to Raymond and Sedalia (Jacobs) Hager in rural Bellevue, IA, and grew up on the family farm. He attended country school west of Bellevue and graduated from St. Joseph High School. He married Cecilia Kueter on October 6, 1953. Soon after, Lorin was drafted into the U. S. Army (1954-56), attended Quartermaster school, and served in France as a Signal Supply Specialist during the Korean War. Lorin served with the Bellevue City Utility Department and Power Plant for 18 years, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for 18 years, and served as a Bellevue Volunteer Fireman. Upon retiring in 1998, he and Cecilia moved to Pahrump and later to Henderson, Nevada.

He is survived by his wife Cecilia and 5 children and their spouses (Paula, Mary, Sarah, Kay, and Mark), 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Lorin was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Merlin, Orville, Roger, and Orville’s wife Arlene, great grandson Bennett Feldman, and his father/mother-in-law, John and Mary Kueter.

Lorin’s life was filled with service to his family, community, country, and many others. He gained great joy from affording opportunities to young people and was very proud of the many achievements of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. His life of integrity and honor has left this world a better place.

Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Courageous, Monticello, IA Honor & Memorial Gift – Camp Courageous or St. Francis of Assisi Church Building Fund – God’s Miracle in the Desert, Henderson, NV Building Campaign | sfahdnv

Catherine L. Harris

Catherine L. Harris, 71, of Dubuque, died Sunday, June 20, 2021, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The service 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.

Catherine was born April 8, 1950, in Sagamore, PA, the daughter of Alexander John and Antoinette (Mastri) Wisneski.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed cooking large meals for her family and friends.  Every Christmas, she would bake cookies for the whole neighborhood.  Catherine also enjoyed reading and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Survivors include her children, Anthony “Tony” (Maria) Harris of San Diego, CA, Christian Harris, Justin Harris, Andre Harris, all of Dubuque, Brock Harris of Lakewood, CA and Jessica Scott and one granddaughter, Andorra Harris.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

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

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

Brielle Lee Ann Osthoff

Brielle Lee Ann Osthoff, age 20, of Dubuque, lost her battle with mental illness on Wednesday, June 30, 2021.  To celebrate Brielle’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Brielle’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home, with Melissa Culbertson officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery at a later date following cremation.

Brielle was a ray of sunshine born on April 28, 2001, in Dubuque, to her loving parents, Aaron and Heather (Winkelman) Osthoff.  She attended school at Holy Ghost Grade School, Mazzuchelli Catholic Middle School, Wahlert Catholic High School and was taking classes at Clarke University.  She was a constant presence at her mom’s in home day care and was also working at the Grandview Day Care Center.  All of the kids loved her and always wanted to be around her bubbly personality.  Brielle was always very active and on the go whether it be cheerleading, diving, or putting in countless hours practicing gymnastics.  She was a talented gymnast from the time she was small and proudly competed in the Junior Olympics.  Brielle also enjoyed spending quiet time by herself reading, writing in her journal and exploring her spirituality.  Brielle was a sweet and empathetic soul who loved helping people and always went out of her way to put others first.  She and her family were very close and everyone was always up for a new and exciting adventure.  Her favorite trips included going to Disney World, Italy, France, Germany, Europe, Mexico and Hawaii, where she fully appreciated the beauty of nature all around her.  She was especially close to her grandparents and shared a special bond with her grandma Patti.  She also had a deep love for her pets, Kona Bear, Luna May and Magic.  We are truly heartbroken at the loss of our beautiful Brielle here on Earth with us, and we will miss her more than words can express.  Brielle’s family and friends meant the world to her, and she never let her mental struggles define her.

Those left to cherish Brielle’s memory include

her parents,
Aaron and Heather Osthoff, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Brittany (Tristan) Murphrey, Milwaukee, WI
and Brock Osthoff, Dubuque, IA;

and her niece and nephew,
Penelope Radtke and Lancelot Murphrey, Milwaukee, WI.

Brielle was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Kevin and Patti Winkelman; and her great-grandfather, Grandpa Joe.

Brielle’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our close friends, and the counselors and  therapists who have helped us along this journey.  No one is beyond the reach of mental struggles and your kindness and compassion are appreciated more than you will ever know.

In lieu of flowers the family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Brielle’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Brielle Osthoff Family.

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

Richard W. Ruden

Richard W. Ruden, 80, of Dubuque, died peacefully Tuesday, June 29, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, July 5, 2021 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Richard will be 10:30 am Tuesday, July 6, 2021, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. There will be no visitation at the funeral home prior to the Mass. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Richard was born in 1940, in Dubuque, the son of Wilmer P. “Bill” and Dolores Bassler Ruden. Dick attended Loras Academy and Loras College where he excelled at playing football. In 1962, he married Norene Faley at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Dick joined the Dubuque Fire Department in 1962 and he advanced to the rank of an Assistant Chief in 1972. He retired in 2005 after 43 years of service.

Dick was loved and will be missed so much by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. As the older brother in a family of 8 children, he also enjoyed the love and friendship of his many younger brothers and sisters. He was an avid fisherman and shared his passion with his sons, grandchildren, and brothers.

All of his family loved his silly songs and stories. His smile and teasing sense of humor made for many fun family moments. He loved playing games and he really liked to win. His homemade chili, pies, and waffles were favorites of his family.

Dick truly lived his life full of love, laughter and prayer. He quietly helped others with his generosity and time. He was a faith-filled man who said many prayers each day including the rosary and a chaplet.

Survivors include his wife, Norene; two daughters, Christine (Rodney) Watters of Asbury, and Laura Hemesath of Dubuque; two sons, Todd (Bridgid) Ruden of Solon, and John (Val) Ruden of Rochester, MN; 10 grandchildren, Nick Watters, Sierra Watters,  Jenn (Tejas) Shastry, Kaitlyn Hemesath, Kimberly Hemesath,  Meghan Ruden, Ryan Ruden, Molly Ruden, Jamie Ruden and Jessie Ruden; two great-grandchildren Rohan and Sonia Shastry; six brothers and sisters, Ron (Linda) Ruden, Doris (Dan) Hughes, Roger (Patti) Ruden, Rozanne Ruden-Loney, Mary (Dennis) Cosley, and Barry (Deb) Ruden, all of Dubuque; and brothers-and-sisters-in-law, Mike (Sharon) Faley and Sharon (Bill) Hamel, both of Dubuque, Carol Tellefson of Washington, IL and Joe (Lisa) Faley of Northport, FL and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Wilmer “Billy” Ruden, one son-in-law William Hemesath, and one brother-in-law, Terry Tellefson.

A special thank you to the Doctors and Nurses at MercyOne Dubuque and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for the loving care and comfort they gave to Richard and his family.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

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

Robbin L. Lyons

Robbin Lynn Lyons, 62, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at home. According to his wishes, no public visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd is assisting the family.

Robb was born on June 17, 1959, in Iowa City, Iowa the son of David Lyons and April Hines.

He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and later married Dawn Lyons on October 25, 2011.

Robb was a loving husband, father, and family man, who enjoyed spending time with his family and his hounds. He loved fishing and watching the Detroit Lyons.

Robb honorably served in the U.S. Navy as a member of the U.S. Ceremonial Guard. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

Robb is survived by his wife, Dawn Lyons; children, Amanda (Anthony) Thurman, Rodney Post, Troy Lyons, Sarah Lyons, Alora Lyons, Kathryn Hargett and Rebekah (Troy) Cornell. Grandchildren Shane Post, Elijah Halfhill, Isaiah Halfhill, Shanarra Post and Michael Post; his step-mother Mary E. “Ginger” Lyons; his sisters Lana Sanders and Tina Lyons; his foster family Ken (Arlene) Peer; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins along with his beloved Bassets, Deb, Ayia and Izee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mary Lyons and his aunt Debra Roth.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Kourtney and Angela H., Dubuque ENT and the Dubuque Fire Department for all their help during the last 2 months.