Obituaries Archive

Rosemary T. Capriola

Rosemary T. “Rose” Capriola, age 88, of Dubuque, IA, left us suddenly in the arms of her angels on January 14, 2025.  To honor Rosemary’s life, family and friends may gather in food and fellowship for her Celebration of Life from 1:00–4:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Rockford Verdi Club, 782 North Madison Street in Rockford, IL.  A Prayer Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. with Keith Seaberg officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rosemary’s family.

Rosemary was born on May 6, 1936, in Rockford, IL, a daughter to Joseph and Lillian (Oddo) Capriola.  She was a kind and sweet soul through and through and the gentlest woman you could ever hope to meet.  Thankfully, Rosemary also possessed a strong will and spirit of determination which she carried faithfully throughout her entire life.  Burying three infant sons would be enough to leave permanent scars on the heart of any mother, but Rosemary used these trials and tribulations as a cause to focus even more intently on the loved one’s the Lord was gracious enough to gift her with.  She loved her family deeply and dearly.  Rosemary had decided early on that family was her greatest joy and they were going to be her life until the end was to arrive.  Any opportunity to have them by her side, under her immense and ever-loving wings, or even on the phone with her sincere ear pressed firmly against it; Rosemary’s heart was always content when she was playing her role as matriarch perfectly.

She did find some time to share her talents with her friends at the Roma Bakery, and never missed a chance to perform a little retail therapy with Marcy, but again, Rosemary’s heart and mind were continually watching the clock and simply waiting for the time to arrive when she was back in the presence of her beloved family.  It’s beyond imagination to even attempt to begin navigating this new and heartbreaking reality we must face without her love and light shining so brightly in all of the lives around her.  The world will never be the same and appears so much smaller today sadly.  We will love and miss our dear Rosemary with all of our hearts and can only hope to find peace and healing in time.  Thank you, Rosemary, for role-modeling so intently the true gift of love, for leading by example without hesitation, and for never allowing the pain that this world sometimes brings into our lives to ever gain a foothold within your devotion to others.  We pray that the Lord has brought you into your eternal state with such love and grace that even our pain would be eased in the knowledge of the peace you feel today.  God bless and God speed sweet Rosemary and may the legacy of love you leave behind remind us all that this is only a temporary journey for each and every one of us until we must never be apart again forever more.

Those left to cherish the memory of Rosemary include,

her three adored daughters,
Rose (E.J.) Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Nina (Joe) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Carla DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her six grandchildren,
Davey Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Jilly) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jeff (Jackie) Ames, Rockford, IL,
Joey (Angie) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jimmy (Sarah) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Jory DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her fourteen great-grandchildren,
Zoe (Alex), Carmen (Joey), Hannah (Zach), Zane (Sydney), Isabella, Paige, Max, Lex, Lilly, Evie, Mariah, Camden, Scarlett, and Tatum;

her four great-great-grandchildren,
Sawyer, Noah, Joey, and Delilah;

her brother,
Joseph (JoEllen) Capriola, Jr., Rockford, IL;

other loved ones,
Dave Ames,
Mark DalSanto,
and Lori Wineland;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents; the love of her life for 33 years, Bob Shipp; her brother, Anthony (JoAnn) Capriola; her special sister-in-law, Marcy Capriola; her three infant sons, Joseph, Gary, and Carl;  her granddaughter, Toni Ames; and her great-granddaughter, Olivia Graciana.

Rosemary’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dubuque Fire and EMS Departments, the Dubuque Police Department, and the Dubuque County Medical Examiner’s Office for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.

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

Sandra J. Meyer

Sandra Jean Meyer, 83, of Fairfax, passed away from complications of dementia on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha. Funeral Mass: 10 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. Jude Catholic Church by Rev. Nick March. Burial: St. John Cemetery, Centralia .  A vigil service will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday at Teahen Funeral Home.  Those not wishing to attend vigil service, may visit with the family on Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home and after 9 a.m. on Friday at the church.

Sandra is survived by her husband Herman; five children, Colleen (Tom) Reding of Mt. Vernon, Kenneth Meyer of Dubuque, Greg (Tracy) Meyer of Asbury, Michelle (Mike) Ives of Cedar Rapids and Tony Meyer of Murrieta, CA; 20 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren with two more on the way; four siblings, Barbara Terrell, Cathy (Steve) Krieg, Tom (Theresa) Hooks and Janet Schultz; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Rita Hubbard, Cletus Meyer, Trudy Kurt, Kathy (Doug) Schlickman, Wayne Zumhof, Diane Hooks and Jean Meyer.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill (Jacque) Hooks, John Hooks, Nancy (David) Sparks, Diana Hooks, Linda Hooks, Rick Schultz, George Terrell, Ann Meyer, Willie Meyer, Mary Agatha Zumhof, Jerry Hubbard, Donnie (Eileen) Meyer, and Leon Kurt.

Sandra was born on January 11, 1942 in Kieler, WI the daughter of Gordon and Margaret Ginter Hooks.  She graduated with honors from Immaculate Conception High School, Dubuque class of 1959. On November 11, 1961 Sandra married Herman Meyer at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque. She was a homemaker for many years and was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church.

Sandra enjoyed crocheting, baking, cooking, travelling by car and flower gardening.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Sandra’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy for all of the compassionate care that was shown to Sandra and her family.

Memorials may be directed to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

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

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich, 89 a priest of the Archdiocese of Dubuque passed away on Friday January 10, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday February 8, 2025, at 10:30 at Saint Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo, Iowa. There will be visitation from 4 to 6 on Friday February 7, and from 9 am until time of mass on Saturday February 8 at Saint Edwards Church in Waterloo, Iowa. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque is in charge of the arrangements.

Rosemary F. Stoffel

Rosemary “Rosie” F. Stoffel, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 11, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Private family services will be held. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Rosie was born on July 9, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Frederick and Margaret Gronau. She was united in marriage to Irvin R. Stoffel on October 4, 1952, at St. Philomena’s in Asbury. For over 30 years, Rosie was employed as a supervisor at ARA Food Service located at John Deere.

Rosie was a caring and patient person. Her heart of gold and willingness to help anyone define the woman she was. She never raised her voice, and without a mean bone in her body she was a wonderful mother and an even better wife to Irvin. Rosie liked to fish, play bingo, and join in a competitive game of euchre.

Rosie is survived by her children Dennis (Laurie) of Lehigh Acres, FL, Mark (Robin) of Peosta, Tina Sweetland of Davenport, Celeste Fischer of Key West, Andrew (Karen) of Balltown, and Tim of Lehigh Acres, FL, 18 grandchilren, many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, sister Esther (Dick) Farnum of Dubuque, and two sisters-in-law Pat Parr and Marge Dyga.

She was preceded in death by her husband Irvin in 2012, two sons Leonard (2009) and John in infancy, grandson Christopher Stoffel, two sons-in-law Dan Sweetland and John Fischer, her parents Fred and Margaret, brother Walter Gronau, sister Virginia Pust, mother and father-in-law, and many siblings-in-law.

Rosie had 91 years full of wisdom, good health, and enough love to go around.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque – especially Shay-, and Leonard Funeral Home for all their loving care of Rosemary.

Rodney G. Miller

Rodney G. Miller, 78, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025 following a long illness.  Private Family Services will be conducted.  Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Rodney was born August 1, 1946, the son of Rodney Onie and Louise Miller.  He served his country in the US Army 1966-1968 during the Vietnam War.  Rodney enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs and spending time with his family.  He married Sherry Etting on July 9, 1995 in Iowa City.  They moved to Bellevue following Rodney’s and Sherry’s retirement.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry; a son, Scott (Christy) Miller; stepson’s, Jason (Makaela O’Donnell) Yeager and Casey (Johannah) Yeager; and 9 grandchildren.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lisa and a step-brother, Jack.

Condolences and Cards may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Rodney Miller Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Sharon F. Adams

Sharon F. “Red” Adams, age 62, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 11, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family and her twin-sister, Karen.  To honor Sharon’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sharon’s family.

Sharon was born on December 30, 1962, in Vincennes, Indiana, a daughter to Clarence W. and Elizabeth J. (Rubrecht) Adams.  She spent many years in the Florida Keys where she enjoyed a sunny afternoon on the beach almost as much as she treasured spending time with her friends.  She eventually made her way to the Dubuque area to begin the next chapter in her life and made many new friends along the way.  Most folks will remember Red as the ever friendly waitress at the Point Restaurant on Rhomberg and the Sunshine Family Restaurant of JFK where she faithfully devoted her time and talents and always loved to visit with her customers.  Most recently she worked at Nordstroms before her health issues sadly arose suddenly.  It’s difficult to imagine a world without Red’s smile and spirit walking among us and we can only hope to find some moments of peace in time and pray for healing in our broken hearts as well.  Thank you, Sharon, for living life as you saw fit and always making sure that those you loved and adored always knew it to be so.  May the Lord provide you rest now from your earthly battles as we wait patiently to see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Sharon include,

her two daughters,
Sarah Elizabeth Adams, Marathon, FL,
and Michelle Victoria Adams, Dubuque, IA;

her three adored grandchildren,
Anthony Patrick Latorre, Alliyah Beth Matie-Adams ,  and Jason Vaughn Morton;

her siblings,
Jackie (Roy) Howell,
Marianne Burkhalter,
Karla Adams,
Tamera Ferguson,
Karen (Glen) Clark,
Bruce Adams,
Patrick Adams,
Angela Adams,
Timothy Adams,
and John (Debbie) Adams;

her sister-in-law,
Cheryl Adams;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Sharon was preceded in death by her siblings, Lee Adams, Brenda (George) Bradley and  Keith Bradley; Paul (Janet) Adams and Paul, Jr.; her brother-in-law, Dale Burkhalter; and her sister-in-law, Ruby Adams.

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

“You can call me Red, as she strolls on through.  A wide tooth grin, big Red hair moving in the wind.  She don’t tip-toe, Red takes up space with a loud laugh and wit to taste!”

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

Phyllis Webster

Phyllis Webster, 76, passed away peacefully Sunday January 12, 2025 at Rock Haven Nursing Home in Janesville, WI after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday January 17, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Phyllis was born June 9, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Evelyn (Rave) and Joe Boyer, Phyllis grew up with three sisters, nicknamed the “Boyer Boys,” and many cousins. She graduated from St. Columbkille’s Catholic High School and began her career at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque. On St. Patrick’s Day 1974, she met the love of her life, Don Webster, and they married on October 19, 1974, before moving to Janesville. Phyllis worked at Mercyhealth System in Janesville for 45 years, retiring in December 2021. She and Don shared 37 years of marriage until his passing in 2011.

A devoted wife and loving mother, Phyllis was cherished for her sense of humor and generous spirit. She enjoyed time with friends, cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes, attending NASCAR races with Don, and hand-embroidering baby quilt tops. Her greatest joy came in 2015 with the birth of her grandson, Charlie.

She is survived by her daughters, Kristine (Roger) Haecker of Reedsburg and Amy (Adam) Gibbs, her grandson, Charlie, Janesville; her 3 sisters, Mary (Bill) Barton, Carol (Larry) Kelchen, Deborah Boyer; her sisters in law, Karen (John) Ray, Gail (Bob) Champion, Kathy (Bill) McCauley, Maria (Ted) Heim, and brother in law, Gary Webster, as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, cousins, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Webster, her parents, Evelyn & Joseph Boyer, her sister, Sharon Boyer, her parents in law Mary Ellen & Austin Webster, and brother in law, Bill Webster.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rock County Cancer Coalition of Janesville, WI.

Her daughters would like to thank the staff at Mercyhealth System and Rock Haven Nursing Home, both in Janesville, for the wonderful care they provided to Phyllis in her final months.

Sandra Bahl

Sandra “Sandy” Bahl, 76, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory, where there will be prayer service at 6:30 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sandy will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Greg Bahl as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sandy was born on April 16, 1948, in Dubuque, the daughter of Leonard and Geraldine (Frith) Miller. On November 16, 1968, she married Steven Bahl in Dubuque.

Sandy worked as a waitress, and for Barnstead/Thermolyne for 20 years. She later worked part time at Dollar Tree for fun.

Sandy was a longtime member of the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. She truly loved being around other people, with this passion she belonged to many clubs such as, quilting club, card clubs, and bunco club. As a lover of animals, she was attentive to all of her family’s pets. Sandy also loved music and cooking for holiday gatherings. Christmas was her favorite holiday as she was a selfless giver of gifts, love, and all things.

Survivors include her loving husband of over 56 years, Steve; three children, Brian (Rhonda) Bahl of Whitewater, CO; Teri (Kartik) Athreya of Jersey City, NJ; and Father Greg Bahl of Cedar Rapids, IA; three grandchildren, Uma, Suryan, and Skanda; two brothers-in-law, Mark (Michelle) Bahl of Marion, IA and Mike (Julie) Bahl of Epworth, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; one sister, Judy Ellerie, her closest friend throughout her lifetime.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Church of the Resurrection or Salvation Army.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and her Resurrection Church family.

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

Michael L. Geuder

Michael Lee Geuder 70, of Guttenberg, IA, passed away Thursday, January 9th, 2025, at the Guttenberg Care Center.  Born on February 4, 1954 in Rock Island, IL to Donald and Mary Jean Geuder, Mike lived a life rich with love and dedication to his family.

Mike was known for his unwavering commitment to those he loved. He shared a beautiful life with the woman he loved by his side, his wife Lori. Together they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and love. As a devoted father to Todd Koeller and daughters Holly Brown and Jessica Bittner – and later welcoming son Mike Wallen – he took immense pride in nurturing their dreams while instilling values of kindness and hard work. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, he enjoyed each and every one of them.

He was a skilled commercial union painter for most of his career who also owned body shops and the Black Beauty Sealcoating business, showcasing both talent and entrepreneurial spirit; Mike’s work ethic was matched only by the joy he found in helping others. Later in life, he transitioned into security at the Miss Marquette, where he continued to touch lives with his gentle demeanor.

Beyond work commitments lay Mike’s passions – his appreciation for cars brought him endless joy as did evenings spent playing billiards or yard darts with friends and family. A lover of games, like Aggravation, provided moments of friendly competition that created lasting memories among friends and family members gathered around the table.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude towards the staff at Guttenberg Care Center and St. Croix Hospice for their exceptional care during Mike’s final days; your compassion made an immeasurable difference.

Services honoring Mike will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home located in Guttenberg from 9 am -12 pm. Inurnment will follow at Guttenberg City Cemetery. Rev. Mike Ashman will officiate. There will be a lunch at the Guttenberg Golf Course – a fitting tribute celebrating not just loss, but also love shared throughout years gone by.

As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, whose presence enriched our lives so profoundly, we carry forward lessons learned from him about generosity toward others – the importance of cherishing every moment – and above all else, be creative and make it special! The family will continue to share the colorful & unique memories Mike instilled in them.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Lori (Koeller); children: Todd Koeller, Holly (Nick) Brown, Jessica (Dan) Bittner, Mike (Traci) Wallen; grandchildren: Caleb, Cole, Alyvia, Austen, Seth, Destani, Ruthann, Hali, Brody, Chloe; and many brother and sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Jean Geuder; parents-in-law, Leo and Hazel Koeller; brother, Tom; brothers-in-law: Duane, Carson, Joe, and Charlie; sisters-in-law: Sandy, Pat and Barb.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and information is available at www.morrisfuneralhomes.com. Memorials may be sent to Morris Funeral Home (in care of the deceased) 207 South 1st St, Guttenberg, IA 52052.

Marianne Barton

Marianne Barton, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Sunday morning, January 5th, 2025. No services will be held at this time.

Marianne was born July 21, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois to Frederick and Beulah Trautman. Marianne graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and Occupational Therapy in 1952 from Colorado State University. She went on to pursue a career and passion for occupational therapy. She worked in Dubuque at Sunnycrest Manor, where everyone felt like a family.

On November 30, 1962, Marianne married Howard Barton in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They embarked on many trips around the world and had a passion for experiencing new things and creating memories for their family. Marianne loved spending time with her family and had a love for all things drawing and coloring. Marianne could often be found with a colored pencil in her hand and always loved making new drawings for friends and family.

Marianne can now rest peacefully with her loving husband Howard. She is survived by her daughter Christine Barton Jensen of Dubuque and son Vance Barton; 7 grandchildren, James (Melissa) Lehnen of Arkansas, Aaron Lehnen of East Dubuque, IL, Alyssa Lehnen of Iowa City, IA, Anders Jensen of Dubuque, IA, Portia Barton, Veda Barton, and Ezra Barton; 4 great grandchildren, Blake, Benson, Maxwell, and Baxter; her siblings Lynn and Jim of Colorado.

The family extends special thanks to Bethany Home of Dubuque and Mercy Hospital for taking such great care of Marianne.

Jon J. Marshall

Jon J. Marshall, 51, of Asbury, died Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jon will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque.

Jon was born March 16, 1973, in Bellevue, IA, the son of Robert “Joe” and Barbara (Manders) Marshall. On July 22, 2006, he married Mia J. Herrig at Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque.

Jon was a graduate of Marquette High School and the University of Iowa.

Jon didn’t want to die. He wanted to play basketball again. He wanted to go on vacation in February. He wanted to see his grandkids someday. He wanted to play euchre at his sisters card party. He wanted to grow old and retire and bask in the love of his family and enjoy the fruits of his labor. His labor was a living labor. He lived every day to show love to others and be there as a friend and someone everyone could count on. We called him the glue that brought everyone together. Everyone he met became a friend, there was no question about it. The centerpiece. But he was so much more than that. He was our touchstone. He was our rock. Truth and love were his essence. You never had to doubt what Jon was about. He was about you. He cared deeply for everyone and that wasn’t lip service. He was an amazing human.

He led people to Christ by his actions and love. He was touched by Christ and a genuine blessing of a human. He was never shy about the obvious fact that Christ is why we do things. Why we live like we do. Why we help. Why we show up in others lives. Why we humble ourselves. And because of who he was, this is now why we cry and miss him so. The world lost a piece of Christ and love that not everyone could give to the world, like he did. We are given the gift of days, and people to share our time with. The gift God gave us in Jon is beyond measure and price.

Please people, don’t forget the impact and beauty you can be on your short time here on earth. He was full of life and gave all of himself and was always so grateful and happy. He felt lucky to spend his days with all the people he loved. His daughters were everything to him and they along with the rest of his family never had to doubt his love. Because he lived in the spirit of truth. The biggest thing Jon left to this world is to love others and enjoy each other. Stay lighthearted and embrace all the blessings you have been given.

His wife Mia, and beloved daughters lost half of their hearts on the day God called him back home. There are no words to fix the pain that has now become a burden on our very heavy hearts. We just hope all those who knew him and were inspired by him, choose to honor him by living like a beacon of Christ. Like he did. He was the lighthouse in the storm. He was the shoulder you could rest your head upon and he was light and life. His imprint will be left far and wide. His gentle, quiet nature spoke volumes. He was amazing. How lucky on his short time on earth he made an unforgettable legacy.

Love never dies we can say, even through our flowing tears deep as the sea. What a blessing and what a loss. We love you Jon.

His energy and zest for the Iowa hawks was over the top! He loved golfing with his friends, playing euchre, and enjoying time with his family. He made everyone laugh and helped us to not take life to serious.

Survivors include his loving wife, Mia of Asbury; his three daughters, Alana (Austin) Cayro of Dubuque; Katlyn (Bennet Brosseau) Marshall-Ernst of Minneapolis, MN; and Ava Marshall of Dubuque; his mother, Barbara Marshall of Bellevue; six siblings, Lisa (Dale) Meyer of Bernard, IA; Lori (Doug) Clark of Bellevue; Paul (Deb) Dent of Bellevue; Cathy (Steve) Freiburger of Bernard, IA; Jim Marshall of Dubuque; and Carrie (Eric) Kilburg of Bellevue; parents-in-law, John (Sally) Herrig of Dubuque; sister-in-law, Jauna (Chris) Kerf of Dubuque; brother-in-law, Dutch (Bethany) Herrig of Fincastle, VA; and many nieces and nephews.

Jon was preceded in death by his father and two nephews, Tyler Freiburger, and Paxton Hummel.

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

Patricia Wernke

Patricia “Pat” Wernke, 91, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Sunday, January 12, 2025, surrounded by family, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:45 pm on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Pat will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 17, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant.

Pat was born on September 18, 1933, in North Buena Vista, IA, the daughter of Norman “Sam” and Genevieve (Wachendorf) Brimeyer. On September 10, 1955, she married Henry “Hank” Wernke at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Dubuque. He preceded her in death on April 20, 2013.

Pat graduated from Immaculate Conception High School. She worked at Sears in the catalog department and Tri-State Dialysis as a Nurse’s Aid. Pat was a very devout Catholic and prayed the rosary daily. She loved sports, especially ice skating, where she would often outshine others on the rink. She enjoyed playing euchre, going Christmas caroling, and watching Hank play softball. Above all, she enjoyed having her family around and attending her children’s and grandchildren’s events.

Survivors include five children, Ami (Tom) Wagner of Dubuque; Julie (Steve) Oswalt of Des Moines; Eric Wernke of Davenport; David (Laura) Wernke of Oswego, IL; and Tony (Nikki) Wernke of Dubuque; 14 grandchildren, Erin (Dino) Pagliai, T.J. (Melissa) Wagner, Brian (Heather) Wagner, Rachel Wernke, Nicholas Wernke, Nathan (Kelsey) Wernke, Noah Wernke, Credence Wernke, Maximilian Wernke, Osborne Wernke, Lori Warden and her three children,Tommy (Angie) Oswalt and their two children, Amber (Brian) Bird and their two children, and Sarah Jorges and her daughter; great-grandchildren, Aisling, Kane, Jace, Griffin, and Payton; three sisters-in-law, Joyce Brimeyer, Helen Wernke, and Barb Wernke; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Pat was preceded in death by one brother, William “Bill” Brimeyer, three brothers-in-law, John “Stretch” Wernke, Donald Wernke, and Fritz Wernke,and two sisters-in-law, Mary Root and Diane “Dee Dee” Hasken.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Pat’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the caregivers that became family at Hawkeye Care Center, especially Jolene, Sister Margaret Anne from St. Anthony Catholic church, Dr. Kumor for his kind and compassionate care and the all of the staff at the Finley ER and 5th floor for helping them through this difficult time.

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

Irene M. Dement

Irene M. Dement, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, at Bethany Home, surrounded by her loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday January 16, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service beginning at 3:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday January 17, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Steve Garner. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Irene was born on October 28, 1930, in Cascade, Iowa, daughter of Felix and Anna (Neyens) Felton. She was united in marriage to Harold L. Dement on March 22, 1975, in Dubuque, Iowa. Together they shared 39 years of love until Harold’s passing in 2014. Irene worked at Dubuque Stamp and Manufacturing. She was a faithful member of Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church. Irene enjoyed traveling and fishing with Harold, and later in life she enjoyed embroidery.

Irene is survived by her children Ruth Jurisic, Cindy (Masa) Iwasaki, Wendy (Ray) Schickel, Glenn Dement, and Terry (Laura) Dement, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Harold, children Rose Marie Soppe, John Soppe, and Bob Soppe, her parents, and eight siblings.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they gave to Irene.

Lyle A. Gassmann

Lyle A. Gassmann, 95, of Dubuque, died Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Lyle will be 10:30 am Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque with Father Edilberto Jarapa as the Celebrant. Full military honors will be rendered by East Dubuque American Legion Post #787. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington, Iowa.

Lyle was born October 9, 1929, in Holy Cross, IA, the son of Aloysius N. and Leonette T. Kluesner Gassmann.

He attended grade school at Sts. Peter and Paul in Petersburg, IA, and graduated from St. Paul High School in Worthington, IA. He furthered his education at the former Bayless Business College, Loras College, and Clarke College, all located in Dubuque.

He was a U.S. Marines Veteran, serving as a Corporal during the Korean War. During his service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, three battle stars, and the Medal for Mettle.

He worked in IT at John Deere Dubuque Works and retired in 1984.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque, the Knights of Columbus Council 510, where he served as Grand Knight, and a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Doubourg Assembly #1573, where he served as Faithful Navigator. He was also a member of American Legion Post #6, the Corporation of Retired Employees, and the Clarke College Heritage Club. He loved nature. He was an avid gardener, spending extra attention to his flowers, and enjoyed the birds that visited his yard.

Survivors include his seven children, Rebecca (Michael) McMahon of Dubuque, Jeffrey (Liz) Gassmann of Mesa, AZ, Elizabeth “Beth Ann” Tabor of Cedar Falls, Susan (Dennis) Doughtery of Orland Park, IL, Lynn (Tony) Hancock, of Dubuque, Michael (Julie) Gassmann of Lenexa, KS, Theresa (Brandon) Durrett of Henderson, TX; 19 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; one brother, Gerald Gassmann of Bettendorf, IA; one sister, Mary Agnes (Jim) Schnier of Bellevue, IA; and two sisters-in-law, Marge Gassmann of Asbury and Beverly Gassmann of Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Dr. Lyle A.J. Gassmann, former wife, Shirley Gassmann, five brothers, John (Gracie) (Betty) Gassmann, Marvin (Patricia) Gassmann, LeRoy Gassmann, Robert Gassmann, and Kenneth Gassmann, five sisters, Sylvia (Bob) Fitzgerald, Eileen (William) Besler, Connie (Merle) Luecke, Elizabeth (Sylvester) Gotto, and Gladys (Paul) Knepper.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for the compassionate care provided to Lyle.

A memorial has been established.

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

Dorothy M. Francois

Dorothy Mary Francois passed away peacefully in Coralville, Iowa on January 12, 2025.  Born on March 21, 1931, to John and Chloe (Hook) Holthaus in rural Greeley, Iowa. Dorothy was the tenth of thirteen children.  At a young age her family moved to Manchester, Iowa where Dorothy attended the Manchester schools.

In 1950, she married Joseph Behan in Manchester, Iowa until his passing in 1955. Dorothy and Joseph were blessed with two children, Joseph Jr. and Ann.  In 1956, Dorothy married the man whom with she would spend the rest her life, Raymond Francois, in Masonville, Iowa.  Ray and Dorothy were blessed with seven more children and experienced numerous moves during Ray’s career with Great Plains Supply, Co., including Bernard, Cascade, Denison, and Belle Plaine, Iowa, and Springfield, Missouri where they retired and resided for 38 years until they moved to Coralville, Iowa in 2022.

Although Dorothy worked various jobs during her life, her most important roles were as a homemaker, faithful and loving wife, and mother of her nine children.  As a product of the Depression, Dorothy knew the meaning of doing without and developed a great sense of selflessness and sacrifice for her family.  She was a woman of great faith and a devout Catholic.  Dorothy was also known for her homemade bread.  Despite her children’s many attempts to replicate, she reigned queen.

Along with her husband, she enjoyed their many travels including traveling to all 50 States, attending countless MLB games, following the Missouri State Lady Bears basketball team, and special times spent with her children, grandchildren, and many friends.

Dorothy is survived by her husband Ray of Coralville, Iowa, five daughters, Ann (Gary) Kluesner of Dubuque, Iowa, Patti (Steve) Speake of Denison, Iowa, Joyce Francois of Iowa City, Iowa, Rae Ellen (Terry) Denker of Omaha, Nebraska, Michele (David) Rothe of Denison, Iowa, three sons, Michael (Shannan) Francois of Galena, Ohio, Dr. Dennis (Teresa) Francois of Ellensburg, Washington, Dr. Scott (Amy) Francois of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and one daughter-in-law, Ann Wuertzer Behan of Dubuque, Iowa, 25 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband Joseph H. Behan, her son Joseph B. Behan, and her grandson Sage Francois, all twelve of her siblings, including brothers Stacy (Lucille) Batterton, Karl Holthaus, Walter (Florence) Holthaus, John (Hazel) Holthaus, Dale (Mary) Holthaus, Calvin Holthaus, sisters Minnie (Percy) McNeil, Bernice Holthaus, Emma Holthaus, Ida (Walter) Bender, Ethel (Chuck) Fairweather, and Ruth (Bill) Malone.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Stirlingshire of Coralville and to the many people at Iowa City Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.

Visitation for Dorothy will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2024, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services for Dorothy will be held at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Iowa City Hospice, 1526 Sycamore Street, Iowa City, IA 52240.