Obituaries Archive

Sister Dolores M. Kramer, BVM

Sister Dolores M. Kramer, BVM (Jeanne Michele), 91, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, July 26, 2020, at Caritas Center.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2020, followed by a virtual visitation from 10:25-10:40 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial in the Marian Hall Chapel at 10:45 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Dolores ministered as a pastoral associate at St. Edward in Waterloo, Iowa. She was secondary teacher in Clinton and Des Moines, Iowa; Chicago; Kansas City, Mo.; Wichita, Kans.; and Glendale, Calif.; and an elementary teacher in Fort Dodge, Iowa; Chicago; Grayslake, Ill.; and West Hempstead, N.Y. She served as an administrative assistant in Chicago and as a spiritual director in Chicago and Los Altos, Calif.

She was born on Aug. 20, 1928, in Alta Vista, Iowa, to Charles and Marguerite (Keniry) Kramer. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1948, from St. John Parish, Waterloo, Iowa. She professed first vows on March 19, 1951, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1956.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Patrick Kramer, a sister Joan Ford and a brother-in-law Jim Wegenknecht. She is survived by a sister Mary Lois Wegenknecht, Kimberly City, Mo.; a sister-in-law Rita Kramer, Waterloo, Iowa; a brother-in-law Richard Ford, Windsor Heights, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 71 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, Dubuque, Iowa 52002 is in charge of arrangements.

Carol A. Smith

Carol Ann (Bakey) Smith, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away the morning of July 26 at Finley Hospital due to underlying health conditions and recently contracting Covid-19.

Graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2020 at Holy Family New Melleray Cemetery. All family and friends are encouraged to attend. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Carol was born February 2, 1946, in Dubuque to James “Jimmy” Bakey and Bernice Cavanagh Bakey.  In 1953, she and her parents and siblings moved to the Cavanagh family farm just north of New Melleray Abbey in Peosta were she was raised.

Carol loved the farm life, and never shied away from getting her hands dirty.  She enjoyed doing the many chores around the family farm while her older brothers were away serving their country.  She often spoke of her love of her horse “Cindy” and their many adventures.

Carol graduated from Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa in 1964 and later from Capri Cosmetology and Northeast Iowa Community College.  Over the years, she evolved as a professional, but what truly drove her was a strong desire to help others.  Whether it was a haircut, working as a prevention specialist or just doing whatever felt good at the moment, she would always find a way to rise to the occasion and help others.  Carol loved throwing parties and was very involved in organizing her class reunions.  She also love playing cards, but was known to cheat often…

She met the love of her life, Gary J. Smith, four miles from home, up a gravel road.  Soon thereafter, they fell in love with one another and kissed for the first time at the fish pond at Eagle Point Park.  They were married June 27, 1964, at Holy Family Church, New Melleray.  Later in life, she and Gary loved traveling, smuggling cigars and spending time at their vacation home in Arizona.  Carol loved her Arizona friends and being able to harass her favorite brother “Mud” who once tied her to a chair and tried to set her on fire.  Her favorite trip was to Ireland with her sister Darlene, where the tour guide labeled the two of them as the “Twisted Sisters.”  She was passionate about her Irish lineage but didn’t care for corned beef.

She loved spending time with her family and friends, but most of all her grandchildren.  She would stop at nothing to organize anything silly for them to do.  She loved having fashion shows with her three granddaughters and watching her grandson play baseball.

Carol is survived by her husband of 56 years Gary, her son Dan (Jennifer) Smith and her daughter Dana (Brad) Holthaus and her four grandchildren, Cole and Gabbi Smith and Isabella and Sophia Holthaus, all of Dubuque.

She is survived by her siblings Richard (Keiko) Bakey, Gene “Mud” (Kay) Bakey and John (Ruth) Bakey.  She is also survived by her in laws, Leonard T. Smith JR, Mary Helen (Richard) Goss, Chris (Mary Beth) Smith, Grayson (Janet) Smith and Laura Smith.  She is also survived by her sister and brother in laws Mark Beckman, Mike Breen, Juanita Bakey and Don Hentges.  She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by both of her parents James and Bernice Bakey, her in-laws Leonard and Monica Smith and Innocence Ann Smith.  Also proceeding her passing were her brother Gerald Bakey, sisters Mary Breen and Darlene Beckman and sisters in law Diane Hentges and Karen Smith.

John H. Del Degan

John H. Del Degan, age 64 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on July 25, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor John’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving John’s family.

John was born on June 24, 1956 in Toronto, Canada, a son to Enrico and Wanda (Zamalo) Del Degan.  He earned his Bachelors of Science in Geology from the University of Waterloo in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada and did some prospecting and worked in an amethyst mine before moving to San Diego to begin the next chapter in his life.  It was there that he met his beautiful bride, Pamela Saylor, and the couple was united in marriage on September 28, 2002.  John has surely been called home much too early, but his years were thankfully abundantly full of all that is good in this world.  John was currently investing his working hours with John Deere Dubuque Works, but he had worked in IT for the majority of his working career, primarily with IBM, and PB & J Consulting.  But, anyone who knew John also understood that his heart always belonged in the field of Geology.  He was blessed to have had many adventures of being set free into the wilderness to scout for new formations with only the hope of weekly support being air dropped in along the way.  In earlier years he spent plenty of time in the dojo working on his martial arts and more recently was actively involved in supporting his daughter Rika, with her interest in English style horse riding and competitions.  Building computers brought some satisfaction to his days as well, and he gladly provided the entire family computer consulting and advice.  John lived his life to the fullest each and every day.  His commitment to his family was undeniable and playing the role of husband and father was not only what he was made to do, but truly where he shined the most.  John was a kind, gentle, genuine, and polished soul who understood that romance beat routine every day, and that sacrifice was as rewarding as facing any challenge which came his way.  The world is definitely a lesser place today without John’s effervescent energy connecting so effortlessly with everyone he encountered, and thankfully he has left us with an amazing collection of memories to treasure through the years ahead.  Thank you, John, for setting the bar so high and for continually role-modeling what a real man looks and acts like.  May peace from your earthly battles be yours now and may you be safely kept in the Lord’s loving arms until we meet again.  Job well done Thy good and faithful servant!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of John include,

his loving wife and partner of 20 years,
Pamela Del Degan, Dubuque, Iowa;

his adored daughter,
Rika Del Degan, Dubuque, Iowa;

his siblings,
Maureen Del Degan, Toronto, Canada,
and Dan (Colleen) Del Degan, Seminole, Florida;

his sisters-in-law,
Mary (Richard) Meyer,
and Marilyn (David) McDermott;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.

John was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and mother and father-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

John’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the University of Iowa, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Also, a very sincere thank you to Madonna Friedman, OSF, and all of our family and friends who have been so generous with their time, support, and endless efforts.  Your kindness has brought more peace into a difficult time than you could ever imagine.  May God bless you all for the parts you have played.

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

Peggy J. Shalabi

Peggy J. Shalabi, 75 of Sauk City, Wisconsin died unexpectedly, but peacefully at her new home in Dubuque, Iowa after spending a lovely summer evening with her family.

She was born Peggy Jean Goltz on November 5, 1944 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the third of four children born to her parents Lloyd and Lucille Goltz.

Peggy was an active child and was fond of sharing the fact that she was the fastest runner in her grade school.

This athletic streak led her to pursue physical education as her major in college (the first person in her immediate family to attend) first at Suomi College in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and then at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse.

It was while attending UW-LaCrosse that she met George Shalabi — the love of her life — whom she would eventually marry in 1967.

After marrying, Peggy and George both found jobs in the Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin area and moved there to begin their careers and start a family. And they were life-long residents until last year when they moved to Dubuque, Iowa to be closer to their eldest daughter.

Peggy and George had two, strong adventurous daughters — Leslie and Samia who are carrying on their parents’ legacy of warmth, hospitality and joy in their own unique ways.

Peggy worked in the Sauk-Prairie school district as a physical education teacher first at the Middle School, then Madison Street school and finally Spruce Street school where she taught hundreds of kids over her 30+ years as an educator. In 1997 Peggy went back to school for her master’s degree in counseling and reinvented herself as a guidance counselor for the final six years as a teacher.

She was very dedicated to her students and had a special place in her heart for little ones going through a hard time — whether that was something as commonplace as losing a grandparent or more complex and challenging like abuse and neglect.  For a short time, she volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate to help represent children involved in difficult custody or legal situations with their families.

As years went on, she never tired of running into her students or kids of her students or grandkids of her students while out and about in the community — the inevitable legacy of someone who teaches for so long in a small community.

She maintained very strong friendships with many women throughout her life that brought her meaning and great joy.

Peggy loved lots of things: colby cheese, supper club fish fries, reading, coffee with her girlfriends, travel, her “snow crown”, the cabin in Mountain, Wis., the Anna Maria Island gang, Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, Franzia Crisp White wine, sewing, Jeopardy, sitting on the porch, her foster cat, flowers, and her daughters and of course, her husband.

What she didn’t really love all that much were snakes and she was famously afraid of them, which was fodder for lots of funny family stories through her years living in rural Wisconsin.

Peggy had her fair share of health challenges over the years — breast cancer, double knee replacement and later in life COPD, which made breathing and getting around challenging and put a lot of strain on her heart.

And she lost her beloved husband George just six months ago in January 2020 — which also put a lot of strain on her heart, and it finally gave out, quickly and painlessly in the night.

Peggy is survived by her two daughters Leslie Shalabi (Mike Muench) of Dubuque, Iowa and Samia Shalabi (Jack Williams) of Madison, Wisconsin and Bali, Indonesia. As well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and many life-long friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Lucille and her siblings Kaylene, Helen and Bob, her niece Michelle and nephew Todd, as well as her husband of 52 years, George Shalabi.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hope House of South Central Wisconsin (720 Ash St., Baraboo, WI 53913), an organization providing support to victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

Because a traditional memorial service is challenging right now, the family is planning an outdoor reception with light refreshments at the east pavilion in Marion Park in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin on Saturday, August 15, from 2 pm to 5 pm. Friends are welcome to stop by to for a visit with masks and social distancing encouraged. Remembrances are being shared at 2:30 pm, please bring your memories of Peggy to share with us.

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

Berna L. Sagers

Berna L. Sagers, 83, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, July 25, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Berna Leah McCarty was born on July 1, 1937 in Canton, Iowa, to Bernie and Bernice (Kiester) McCarty. She grew up in Canton area and then moved to Maquoketa. She married Carlyle “Gabby” Clark on February 20, 1954 in Baldwin, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 15, 1982. She then married Ernie Scheeder on August 14, 1992 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. He preceded her in death on December 28, 1992. She lastly married Alan Lane Sagers on March 5, 1994 in Shell Knob, Missouri. He preceded her in death December 6, 2019.

Berna had first worked as a Certified Nurses Aide at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa for many years and following her marriage to Ernie she became a farmer.

She was a woman who could never sit still and was always staying busy. She enjoyed working outside and working hard, and spending time with her grandchildren and dogs.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Barbara (Dennis) Waugh of Dubuque, IA, and Sue (Randy) Weirup of Maquoketa, IA; 6 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Carlyle, husband Ernie and husband Lane, a daughter and son-in-law Mary and Richard Schulz, brother Marvin McCarty, sister Donna Arterberry and a grandson Joshua Schulz.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Kenneth G. Brown

Kenneth G. “Ken” Brown, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 5:28 p.m., on Sunday, July 26, 2020, at his home surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Ken’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Friday, July 31, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, the family asks that anyone attending please wear a mask.  To honor Ken’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:30 a.m., at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Ken was born on November 2, 1934, in Dubuque, son of King and Lena (Rubner) Brown.

Ken was a life long resident of Dubuque. At age 16, Ken went to work to help support his family, starting at Farley & Loetscher for 12 years until they closed the plant.  He then devoted 34 years to Flexsteel Industries, until his well earned retirement in 1997.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Valeta Wuertzer, on June 25, 1955, at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.  They were very excited to have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary earlier this year.  Ken was an excellent handyman, as well as a talented woodworker, who in his free time created several beautiful pieces for family and friends.  Ken enjoyed being outdoors, spending lots of time hunting, fishing and gardening.  He also enjoyed watching the squirrels, rabbits and birds that would frequent his yard.  Ken loved to travel out west where he could enjoy the Rocky Mountains, and also took the family on trips to Yellowstone National Park.  There was never a doubt that Ken’s family was the most important aspect of his life, spending time with Valeta, the kids and the grandkids, brought him great joy and happiness.  We are heartbroken at losing our wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa in our daily lives.  He was truly one of a kind and we will miss him deeply.

Those left to cherish Ken’s memory include

his loving wife of 65 years,
Valeta Brown, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Judy (John) Schroeder, Asbury, IA,
Cindy (Dave) Meyer, Bernard, IA
and Dennis Brown, Dubuque, IA;

his 7 grandchildren,
Terrence Schroeder, Tammy (Ed) Snook, Kimberly (John) Schroeder-Freund, Karina (Michael) Schroeder-Koh, Kristin (Josh) Thomas, Stacy (Randy) Dupont and Eric (Mandy) Meyer;

and his 10 great-grandchildren,
Gavin, Isaac, Hazel, Jake, Austin, Madilyn, Colton, Jaxon, Corbin and Gunner;

and a very special nephew,
Jeff Davis, St. Catherines, IA.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 sisters Lorraine (George) Davis and Ruth (Ed) Gerlach.

Ken’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jennifer and Amy, for all of their wonderful care of Ken, they truly are angels on Earth.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Kenneth Brown Family.

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

Steven A. Hefel

Steven A. “Steve” Hefel, age 68, of North Buena Vista, Iowa, was called home suddenly at 12:25 a.m., on Friday, July 24, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  To celebrate Steve’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista, Iowa.

Steve was born on May 10, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Albert and Dorothy (Curtis) Hefel Jr.

Steve attended grade school in North Buena Vista and went on to high school at Leo High School, West Dubuque High School, and finally graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  Steve was a jack of all trades, and was employed with the railroad, B&K Meats in Sherrill, Dubuque Stamp, John Deere Dubuque Works, ran his own business called Hefel’s Locker, FDL, Uelner Tool and Die, and Riley Construction, before going back to John Deere, from where he would eventually retire in May of 2015.

Steve met, and eventually married his soulmate, Judy Ploessl, on May 26, 1973, at St. Francis Church in Balltown, Iowa.  They were blessed to settle down and raise their 5 boys, and enjoy 47 years of wedded bliss together.  In his free time, Steve enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding and working on his motorcycle.  He loved landscaping and was extremely proud of his yard, strategically placing every rock.  Steve was an avid racing fan, he and Judy attended the Indy 500 every year for 30 years.  He also liked watching Westerns, and always had a bowl of popcorn on his lap, as he was a true popcorn aficionado.  Steve was also known for making his own homemade wine and brewing his own beer.  Steve was a very simple man who required nothing but friends, and could make a friend anywhere he went.  We are deeply saddened at losing Steve so unexpectedly in our daily lives, and our nightly bowl of popcorn will never be the same without him.  We miss you, love you, and look forward to the day we are all reunited again in Heaven.

Those left to cherish Steve’s memory include

his loving wife,
Judy Hefel, North Buena Vista, IA;

his 4 sons,
Craig Hefel, Davenport, IA,
Patrick (Amy) Hefel, Marion, IA,
Ricky (Christa) Hefel, Osterdock, IA
and Lucas Hefel, Dubuque, IA;

and his 16 grandchildren;
Olivia, Chloe, Allison, Peter, Alex, April, Kalkidan, Austin, Will, Sam, Kaleb, Eneasha, Brianna, Braden, Bryson and Aiden.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jeremy Hefel; and 2 brothers, Christopher Hefel and Clark Hefel.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Steve Hefel Family.

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

Roger M. Simon

Roger M. Simon, 67, of Farley, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2020, at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Private Visitation for Roger will be held on Friday, July 24, 2020 at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa. Anyone interested in sending memorials may send them to Reiff Funeral Home, Attention: Roger Simon Family at P.O. Box #99, Farley, Iowa, 52046.

A Private Mass of Christian burial for Roger will be held Saturday, July 25, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating and Rev. Tom McDermott concelebrating.   Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.  A Public Celebration of Life for Roger will be held following the burial at Noon, located at Simon’s Trucking at 920 Simon Dr. in Farley, Iowa.

He was born on November 28, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George M. and Mary (Hefel) Simon.  He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa.  Roger was a highly regarded businessman in Eastern Iowa having owned and operated Simon’s Trucking, Simon’s Cattle Company, BJ’s Truck Sales and Service, 300 Raceway, Simon’s Feed and Grain, Hopkinton Feed and Grain, Simon Sez Motorsports, and RJ Leasing Company.  Roger was a man who impacted many people because he dedicated his life to leaving a legacy. Not just in his business, but through his actions. He lived life to fulfill his family’s dreams and happiness. He set the bar for what a guy could do. He was always there to help out someone in need. Pay for your meal and help you on a rainy day. He was slow to judge and always there to listen. He will live on forever in the hearts of those he changed forever.  He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who will be greatly missed.

Roger was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish, in Farley.  He was a member of the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001.  He was a seven time National Two Wheel Drive Truck Champion.

Those left to cherish his memory are Darlene Simon of Dyersville; 4 children,  Nicole (Justin) Philipp, R.J. (Kayla) Simon, Melissa (Joe) Demmer, and Brandon (Jodi) Simon all of Farley; 13 grandchildren; nine siblings, Mary Kay Wolfe, of Clinton, Il., George (Dorann) Simon Jr., Jean Ann Neyen, Anna Mae (Glen) Hardin, Donna (Joe) Daly, Lois (Paul) Rauen, Connie Simon, and Sandy Simon, all of Farley, and Marty Simon, of Manchester; Mother-in-law, Shirley Connor of McGregor, IA; and brothers and sisters-in-law.

He also was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Thomas Simon, in 1941; a sister, Betty Simon in 2013; Father-in-law, Eugene Connor; two brothers-in-law, Robert Neyen and Richard Wolfe; two sisters-in-law, Judy Simon and Patricia Connor; a great nephew, Dylan Hoefer.

A Roger Simon Memorial Fund has been established.

“Work Hard, Play Harder” and “You’re Dreamin’ It, I’m Livin’ It”

If you would like to view video tribute or send online condolences to the family, please visit our website at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Kenneth J. McDermott

Kenneth John McDermott, 77, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 25 at his home in Cascade, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Kenneth will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. Social distancing will be followed, as recommended by federal and state guidelines. Face masks are required to attend the visitation.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Concelebrating will be Rev. Mark Ostgerhaus.  Lectors will be Anna McDermott, Becca McDermott, Nathan Freesmeier and Clkaire Freesmeier.  Eucharistic Minister will be Monica McDermott.  Placing of the pall will be done by Maureen McDermott, Jason McDermott, Kristi McDermott, Michele Freesmeier and Aaron McDermott.  Psalm #23 solo will be preformed by Rachel McDermott.  For anyone unable to attend mass it will be live streamed on the Reiff Funeral Home Facebook page.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Honorary pallbearers for Ken will be Bill Gehl, Bill Curoe, Ron Benke, Mike Beck, Dan Conrad and Larry O’Shea.

Casketbearers for Ken were Mike McDermott, John McDermott, Tom McDermott, Sam McDermott, Scott McDermott and Lisa Workman.

He was born April 8, 1943 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Raymond M. and Lenore R. (Dolphin) McDermott.  He was a graduate of St. Martin’s High School in 1961, and attended college at the DeVry Technical Institute. In 1965, he volunteered as a lay missionary with Divine Word Missionaries in Papua, New Guinea. This is where he met Maureen Trotter, his future wife of 52 years. On June 1, 1968 he was united in marriage to Maureen Trotter in Beechwood, New South Wales, Australia. Upon returning to Iowa, he fulfilled his draft obligation and spent 11 months in Vietnam. Kenneth and Maureen started their family business of McDermott Oil Company in 1972, which they operated for many years until their retirement.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed wintering in Mesa, AZ, where he could golf and relax with his friends and family. Kenneth was an avid golfer and sports fan, especially of the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Creighton Bluejays.

Kenneth was a veteran, having served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930, and the Cascade American Legion Post #528. He was also a former member of the Cascade Volunteer Fire Department and past Cascade City Council Member.

He is survived by his wife, Maureen McDermott of Cascade, IA; four children, Jason (Dede) McDermott of Cascade, IA, Kristi McDermott (Gerry Notara) of Charlotte, NC, Michele (Jon) Freesmeier of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Aaron McDermott of Marion, IA; six grandchildren, Sam, Rachel, Rebecca, and Anna McDermott, and Nathan and Claire Freesmeier; five brothers, Alan (Margie) McDermott of Cascade, IA, Bob (Barb) McDermott of Tempe, AZ, Earl (Mary) McDermott, Jerry (Shirley) McDermott, both of Cascade, IA, and Howard (Carol) McDermott of Monticello, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law all from Australia, Father Trevor Trotter of Melbourne, Irene (Owen) Wheatley of Toowoomba, Pat Trotter of Wauchope, Clare (Terry) Groom of Nerang, Barbara (Paul) Downie of Alexandria Hills, Kathy Trotter of Darwin, and Lesley (Mark) Linton of Cedar Creek.

He is preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Bob and Dorothy Trotter; his sister Betty (Jack) Vance, and three sisters in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials for Kenneth be given to Aquin Elementary in Cascade, or Divine Word Seminary in Epworth.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family would like to thank Bill and Kathy Gehl for all their help and support, and Hospice of Dubuque, Home Instead, and the Mayo Clinic doctors in Minnesota and Arizona. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes, support, and prayers.

Rita M. Hauger

Rita M. Hauger, age 86 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on July 23, 2020, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.  Rita was born on October 23, 1933, in Washington, Indiana, a daughter to James S. and Helen E. (Gootee) Mackey.

After graduating from St. Simon’s Catholic High School, she moved to Indianapolis to work for Bell Telephone. She eventually moved to Cicero, IL, where she lived for over 50 years, making many lifelong friends. In 2012, she came to Dubuque, IA to be closer to her family.

Rita was passionate about news, current events and sports. Being a fan of the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish football, she never failed to miss a game.  Rita loved family gatherings where her cooking skills were her real talent. She lived for her grandchildren as they were always the center of her universe.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rita include, her daughter, Kelley (Chris) Schrumpf, her grandchildren, Bradley Stryczek, Ashley (Kyle) Alexander, Kyle Schrumpf, Tyler Schrumpf, great granddaughter, Kayleigh Uppena, nieces, nephews, her extended family the Diverdes, and friends.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; brothers John Mackey, James Mackey, Thomas Mackey, step-brother William Francisco Drury CSC, Niece Debbie Long (Mackey), and close friends, Mary Diverde, Marcia Londo, sisters, Peggy, Ann, and Molly Nugent.

To honor Rita, a private family service and celebration of life is being held at a later date.  Burial will be in the St. John’s Cemetery in Washington, Indiana.

Rita’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Luther Manor for all their compassion, care, and concern for Rita and her family. They would also to thank the Tri-State Cremation Center for all their help through this difficult transition.

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

David J. Harry

David J. “Rudy” Harry 64 of Dubuque passed away Thursday July 23, 2020 at the University of Iowa Hospital.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday July 29, 2020 at Linwood Cemetery with Rev. Katrina Richardson officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Tuesday, July 28, 2020 with a prayer service at 6:30p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 10:00a.m. Wednesday July 29, 2020 at the funeral home until the procession leaves for the cemetery.  The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Rudy was born in Dubuque on October 12, 1955 the son of Lloyd and Harriet (Gerndt) Harry. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1973.

Rudy had a great love of Harley’s and took several trips out west, and attended many swap meets. He could be found playing euchre or cribbage any time if he wasn’t giving some little one a ride of “trot-trot to Boston”. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and camping, and feeding his backyard wildlife visitors and his dogs, Bear and Autumn. He was always busy but never to busy to stop and help a friend.  

He is survived by his long time companion of 25 years Myrna Howell a daughter Katie Harry, his grandchildren Jaylynn and Payton and their grandmother Connie Gerhard, his siblings Ted (Lynda) Harry, Jacqueline (Tony) Urbain, Valerie Harry, Brian (Kim) Harry and Barbara (Hal) Burns, many nieces and nephews, along with Myrna’s children Carlene (Lynn) Hillard, Michelle (Dean) Huseman, Amie (Billy) Dean, and Buddy (Kasey) Howell. He also had three God Children Dave Reinert, Rashene Womack, and Zach Donath.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Joshua Stevens,  infant siblings Katherine and Duane Harry, and Malcolm Grossheim, Karel & Joseph Reinert, Gary Harry (Connie Dement), and Lloyd Michael Harry.

Pamela Ostrander

Pamela Ostrander, 67, of Dubuque, died Saturday, July 25, 2020, at her home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Pam’s family.

The Funeral Service for Pam will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. 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.

Pam was born August 13, 1952, in Dubuque, the daughter of Warren and Betty Calloway Schmitt. On October 25, 1969, she married Lee “Tom” Ostrander in Dubuque.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed shopping, cooking, casinos, playing cards, especially poker. She especially cherished time with her family.

Survivors include husband, Tom; three children, Kelly (Todd) Day, Cheryl Ostrander, and Scott (Stacey) Ostrander all of Dubuque; 14 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth (Cathy) Schmitt of Guttenberg, and Michael (Chris) Schmitt of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she is preceded in death by one brother, Warren Schmitt; and one sister, April Schmitt.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Hermann, and his nurses.

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

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

Ralph L. Rolling

Ralph L. Rolling, 96, of 275 Princeton Place died Saturday, July 25, 2020, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM  followed by recitation of the rosary beginning at 7:00 PM on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road. On behalf of Ralph’s family masks will be required at the visitation and the mass. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Ralph’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ralph will be 10:00 AM Friday, July 31, 2020 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 2001 St. Joseph Street, with Rev. Father Jim Goerend as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

He was born July 24, 1924, in Dubuque, the son of Leo F. and Pearl C. (Chapman) Rolling and was baptized August 3, 1924 at the Church of the Nativity by Rev. H.P. Rohlman.

He attened Nativity School, Loras Academy and College, NW Missouri State University and received his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Ralph married Joan E. Saul on October 2, 1946 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. After 57 years of marriage, Joan died on Christmas Eve, 2003.

Ralph was in the U.S. Navy for 7 years and served as the Supply and Disbursing Officer on a destroyer, the USS Heywood L. Edwards, in the Pacific theater.

He was with Weber Paper Company when it was founded in 1951 where he was a Salesman, Office Manager, President and Chairman of the Board. He retired in 1994 and remained as a Chairman of the Board of the now Wepaco Management and Consulting Company.

He was a member of St. Joseph the Worker parish and was Past-President of the Parish Council, member of the men’s choir, and served in the first group of Lay Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers. He and his wife organized the parish’s first Christian Family Movement unit.

He was a member of the Serra Club, life member of the Council #510 Knights of Columbus, Past-President of the Downtown Kiwanis Club, Clarke College Development Council, Dubuque Ambassadors, Squires Club, and Past-President of Dubuque Shooting Society 330 Club.

Survivors include his three daughters, Constance (Peter) Bellaver of Dubuque, Kathy (Bill) Bartmann of Bixby, OK, and Christine (Greg) Sinkey of Iowa City, IA; six grandchildren, Noelle Bellaver of Grants, NM, Andrew (Sue) Bellaver of Fortville, IN, Jessica (Kory) Allsop of Bixby, OK, Meghan Barry of Bixby, OK, Sarah (Tony) Greazel of North Liberty, IA, and Michael (Ellen) Sinkey of Dubuque; and 11 great-grandchildren, Madeline and Ava Bellaver, Devin and Tatum Barry, Caleb and Emily Allsop, Issac, Sophia, Sammy, and Joey Greazel, and Emma Sinkey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; sister, Carol; and brothers, Ted and John.

Memorials may be given to St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Serra Club, or Hills and Dales.

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

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

Michael Wulfekuhle

Sister Marian Einck

Sister Marian (Raphael) Einck, OSF, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 9:10 p.m., Thursday, July 23, 2020 at the Clare House.

A private Rite of Final Commendation will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2020. A Memorial Mass will be held at Mount St. Francis Chapel at a later date. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born on August 23, 1929 in Ossian, IA the daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Miller) Einck.

Sister Marian entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1945 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1951. Sister received master’s degrees in mathematics at University of Santa Clara, CA and in theology at Aquinas Institute, St. Louis, MO. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Dyersville, Ionia, New Hampton, Holy Ghost and Wahlert, Dubuque, and in Oregon at Portland and Milwaukie. Sister also served as Pastoral Associate at St. Edward’s in Waterloo, IA and at Glencoe, MN. She later served in parish ministry at St. Francis, Dyersville, IA and directed the ministry for the Divorced/Bereaved in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her nieces, nephews, and Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her infant sisters Marie, Caroline, and Rita; her infant brothers Tony, William, and Frank; and brothers Emil (Florence) Einck, Rev. Gregory Einck, and Richard (June) Einck.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Leonard Funeral Home  & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.