Obituaries Archive

Sister Lou Ann (Aquilena) Kilburg, OSF

Sister Lou Ann (Aquilena) Kilburg, OSF, 76, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed Monday, July 13, 2020 at Mercy One Hospital, Dubuque

A private Rite of Final Commendation will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 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 September 12, 1943 in Bellevue, IA, the daughter of Nick and Frances (Clasen) Kilburg.

Sister Lou Ann entered the Sisters of St. Francis on September 3, 1961 and made final profession of vows on August 12, 1969. Sister received her master’s degree in Religious Studies at Mundelein College in Chicago, IL. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Monticello and Holy Ghost and St. Mary’s, Dubuque and in Illinois at Niles. Sister also served in pastoral ministry among the Lakota people in South Dakota at Mission, Parmelee, St. Francis, Okreek, and Lower Brule. In Clements, Minnesota and Sabula, Iowa she served as Pastoral Administrator. She was most recently a caregiver at Home Instead Senior Care in Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her sisters Norma (David) Sieverding and Judy Moran; brothers Arlin (Bernice) Kilburg and Donald (Viola) Kilburg; sister-in-law Mary Kilburg; nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Leon Kilburg; and her brother-in-law Michael Moran.

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

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Betty J. Van Zile

Betty Jane Van Zile, 94 of Bethany Home passed away on July 12, 2020 at Bethany Home.

Private family services were held at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial was in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Betty was born on November 18, 1925 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of William and Ruth (Jungwirth) Tindell. She married Herbert J. Van Zile on October 13, 1945 at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.

Betty enjoyed time with her family and was a loving homemaker. She also enjoyed fishing, music, playing cards, reading, traveling, baking and cheering on the Chicago Cubs.

She is survived by her children Joyce (Boo) Splinter, of Dubuque, Laura Blondell, of Ankeny, IA, Joan Plotner, of Johnston, IA, Becky Ernst, of Sioux Falls, SD, Jeff (Christine Sikula) Van Zile, of Dubuque, Mark (Lisa) Van Zile, of Oak Hills, CA, Marcia (Steve) Christ, of East Dubuque, IL, Christine (Fred) Scharff, of Cuba City, WI, Diane (Dave) Altfillisch, of Galena, IL. Twenty-four grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren; her brother Bill (Charlotte) Tindell and her sister Judy Gourley.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Herbert; daughter Pam Pfab and two sisters Ruth Feaker and Alta Mae Tindell.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Moore, Medical Associates, the staff and administration at Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque and to everyone who loved and cared for our mother.

Randall J. Brade

Randall Jay Brade, 61, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2020, at the Regional Medical Center in Manchester.

He was born on November 20, 1958, in Dubuque, the son of Leonard and Irene (Cook) Brade. Randy was raised in Dubuque and graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School.

On August 9, 1980, Randy was united in marriage to Anna Mastin in Dubuque. One daughter was born to this union. The family resided in Manchester. Randy worked at the Dubuque Historical Society until the time of his disability.

Randy liked going to the casinos and playing Bingo. He enjoyed fishing and camping. Randy had a green thumb when it came to raising plants. Most of all, Randy loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Anna Brade of Manchester; his daughter, Amanda (Eric) Hartke of Manchester; two grandchildren, Brady and Erica Hartke; three brothers, Ed (Penny) Brade of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Dennis Brade of Dubuque; and Michael (Grace) Brade of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; his sister, Robin (Michael Kluck) Goetzinger of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Irene Brade; his parents-in-law, William and Carol Mastin; one brother, Leonard in infancy; and a nephew, Josh Mastin.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Visitation is 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call after 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home on Thursday. Funeral Service is at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, July 16, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Interment: will take place at Oakland Cemetery in Manchester, Iowa.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, wearing a mask is strongly encouraged.

Robert L. Kennedy Jr.

Robert L. “Bob” Kennedy Jr., 55, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, July 11, 2020 at his home.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Robert Lee Kennedy Jr. was born on July 24, 1964 in Davenport, Iowa, to Robert Lee and Judith Rae (Stoner) Kennedy Sr. He was a 1982 graduate of Calamus High School and had attended Clinton Community College. He married Angela Jean Burkey on March 21, 1985 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

“Bob” was owner and operator for many years of Digital Concept in Maquoketa working as a software programmer and engineer. He then worked at Family Dollar in Maquoketa for 15 years.

“Bob” loved working with and collecting model trains. Additionally, he was an avid gun collector.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Angela Kennedy of Baldwin, IA; children, Staff Sergeant Robert Lee (Staff Sergeant Jordan) Kennedy III of Oahu, HI, Zachary John Kennedy of Maquoketa, IA, and Austin James Kennedy of Iowa City, IA; his mother, Judith Kennedy of Baldwin, IA; a sister Judie (Tom) Moore of Maquoketa, IA; and 2 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his father.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Robert L. “Bob” Kennedy memorial fund has been established.

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

Reverend Richard L. Schaefer

Reverend Richard Lee Schaefer moved onto his new heavenly priest assignment on July 9, 2020.

Father Richard Schaefer (or Father Dick, as he was fondly known) was born in Bellevue, Iowa on September 10, 1942, a son of Albert and Eileen (Schilling) Schaefer. Raised on an eastern Iowa farm, Fr. Richard regularly recounted those experiences.

Richard was a student and writer of many talents. After attending St. Joseph’s Elementary School, he graduated as valedictorian of his class at Marquette High School, while also lettering in basketball and baseball. He was also very successful in the State of Iowa Speech Contest. As an entrant in a literary essay contest sponsored by the Rural Electric Cooperative, he was awarded a trip to Washington, D.C. Fr. Richard wrote columns for the Marquette News portion of the Bellevue Herald, leading to a summer job at the newspaper covering sports.

A man for all seasons, while attending Loras College in Dubuque and graduating magna cum laude, he participated in Vested Choir, was on the debate team for three years, won the annual Loras College Essay Contest, wrote for The Spokesman, the college literary journal, and received a minor letter in track.

Fr. Richard studied for the priesthood at the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium receiving an M.A. and S.T.B. in Theology. There he served as historian and was the first literary editor of the International Technological Journal, Louvain Studies. His ordination to become a priest occurred July 13, 1968 when he was installed by Archbishop James J. Byrne at Dubuque’s St. Raphael Cathedral.

His first assignment in 1968 was at St. Anthony’s Parish in Dubuque, teaching elementary religion and leading the Catholic Schools of Dubuque junior high school athletic program. The position of responsibility for liturgical or worship music enabled him to introduce modern music into religious services. Father Richard also taught at Wahlert High School.
With a transfer to St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and Student Center at Iowa State University in Ames, his contributions were a part of the four-person team campus ministry. Assistance was also provided to Msgr. Daniel Tarrant, to write and develop liturgies used across the country.

Fr. Dick went from St. Thomas Aquinas parish to studying theology at Marquette University in Milwaukee where he lived and worked in an inner-city parish. Upon completion of the studies in Milwaukee, he returned to Loras College, to teach theology and religious studies. He also led a Catholic women’s book club. Rev. Richard served under five bishops as the Censor; or reviewer of whether a book’s publication would be certified with a “Nihil Obstat”, the confirmation there was no doctrinal objection.

Rev. Schaefer served for years as Medical Chaplain for Mercy Hospital, in Dubuque, on call 24 hours for counseling and tending to the needs of patients of all faiths. This was perhaps his most challenging and rewarding assignment. Counseling to those in critical medical need requires a special calling. Fr. Richard was blessed with this gift.
More recently, Fr. Richard celebrated Mass regularly at Hawkeye Care Center and Bethany Home, both Dubuque retirement homes. Fr. Schaefer served as a fill-in pastor for the retirement home in Galena, St. Mary’s parish in East Dubuque, St. Michael’s, St. Mary’s parishes in Galena, and Holy Trinity in Scales Mound.

One of his passions was the support of the Right to Life movement and thus he participated in many events to keep the public aware of this issue. Fr. Richard served for many years on the Board of the Dubuque Area Right to Life Committee and traveled to Washington D.C. for several January nationwide rallies.

Through his over 50 years as a Catholic priest, Fr. Richard performed countless religious services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and counseling sessions.

Fr. Richard loved sports, especially baseball. Father was a Dodger fan since he first saw “The Jackie Robinson Story” at the age of eight. He was a walking sports encyclopedia and frequently shared information regarding Dodger players, key baseball events and lore. Father had opposing view insight, provided deep thought to complex issues, and possessed a whimsical sense of humor. He loved to tell jokes including puns and especially those he made up. Fr. Richard was fond of inventing combinations of words, such as “gladitude.” His huge collection of every imaginable style of hat matched his quipped words; “the world does not have enough hats or puns.”

Rev. Richard Schaefer’s care, memory of people and events, his writings, dedication to the Catholic faith, love of family and support for others were outstanding.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts; Rosemary (Schaefer) Salm, Sister Julaine (Eleanor) Schaefer, Mary (Schilling) Kueter, Dorothy (Schilling) Meyer, and Bertha (Schilling) Hallahan, uncles Rev. Aidan (Orville) Schaefer, Floyd Schaefer, and Lawrence Schilling.

Father Schaefer faithfully fulfilled the devotion to his ministry and will be missed by his many friends, by his siblings Joe (Carol) Schaefer, Larry (Kay) Schaefer, Bob (Kathy) Schaefer, Tom (Margaret) Schaefer, Jim (Carol) Schaefer, and Mary (Ron) Grecco; nieces and nephews Amy (Ken) Akers, Sarah Schaefer and her husband Brian Pierce, Brian (Liz) Schaefer, Carrie (Patrick) Weston, Michael Schaefer, Katie (Brad) Stapleton, Megan (Matthew) Murphy, Katie (March) Hom, Mark (Lauren) Schaefer, Valerie (Jason) Lawler, Pam Schaefer, aunt Bernice (Kueter) Ehlers, uncles Russell (Joan) Schilling, and Lester Schilling, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grand-nephews.

A memorial service is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Father Richard often said, “There will be chili and brownies in heaven.” All know Rev. Richard L. Schaefer is now enjoying that heavenly feast.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Kandace K. Carr

Kandace K. “Kandy” Carr, 60, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Monday, July 20, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Monday, July 20, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Kandace Kae Witt was born on March 23, 1960 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Bernard Eugene “Bud” and Dorla (Harrington) Witt. She was a 1978 graduate of Andrew High School and later received her Certified Nurses Aid Certificate from Clinton Community College and her Certified Medication Aid Certificate from Scott Community College. She married Greg Carr and to this union two children were born, Anthony and Kayla.

“Kandy” had first worked at Rockwell Collins in Bellevue. She then worked as a CNA and CMA at area nursing homes including Briarwood Care Center, Maquoketa Care Center, Crestridge Nursing Home and Clover Ridge Place, all in Maquoketa. She had also worked as a cashier at Fareway in Maquoketa for several years.

“Kandy” had served as a Jackson County Fair Board member for many years. She loved horses and rodeos, driving around the countryside of Jackson County, was an avid bowler in Maquoketa and Bellevue, and especially enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Anthony “Tony” (Amanda) Carr of Maquoketa, IA, and Kayla (Justin) Hopson of Maquoketa, IA; 2 grandchildren, Isabel and Ethan Hopson; and brothers, Rick (Kathy) Witt of Peyton, CO, Dennis (Nancy) Witt of Clinton, IA, and Jeff Witt of Preston, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother Kevin Witt.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kandace K. “Kandy” Carr memorial fund has been established.

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

Sharon A. Cate

Sharon A. Cate, 74, of Asbury, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2020 following a sudden illness while at her home in Mesa, Arizona. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 10, 2020 at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, where due to the Covid-19 pandemic, masks will be kindly required. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating Sharon’s life at the Dubuque Shooting Society, 10380 US-52N in Dubuque immediately following the Interment. Sharon’s family will greet guests to share memories and stories from about 2 to 6 pm. The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. is entrusted with arrangements.

Sharon was born on May 30th, 1945 in Dubuque to William and Dolores (Crimmins) Hendricks.  She grew up in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1963.  She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Cate, on March 21, 1964; and died while holding his hand on their 56th wedding anniversary.  Her heart was always in Dubuque where she loved to spend time with her sisters and friends.  But a piece of it belonged to Arizona, as well, where she enjoyed her annual “five month vacation” with Bob at their home in Mesa.  She was forever grateful for the life she shared with Bob and frequently said they were having the best time of their lives over the last several years.

Sharon’s greatest treasure in life was spending time with her family.  She could not have been more proud of the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren.  Her faith was a pillar in her life and she was a longtime member of the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque.  Sharon was an avid card player who could often be found at a table with good friends playing Euchre or Hand and Foot.  She spent much of her time reflecting and meditating in her gardens and loved to plant flowers that attracted butterflies.  Her Wednesdays were reserved for Los Aztecas where she regularly met up with her lifelong friends for lunch; and usually stayed to reminisce about good memories over margaritas until dinner time.

People left to honor her memory include her devoted husband, Robert; three children, Jeff (Javier Pedraza) of Dubuque, Mike (Kari) of Blanco, TX, Tim (Shelly) of Argyle, TX; five grandchildren, Nikita, Michaela, Gabriella, Daniel, and Cooper; one great-granddaughter Khloe; three sisters, Janet (John) Young, Sheila (John) Walsh, and Mary Jo (Jerry) Klinkhammer, all of Dubuque; one brother, Bob (Kathy) Hendricks of Tama, IA; her brother-in-law, Jay (Dawn) Cate of Honey Creek, IA;  four sisters-in-law, Carol (Fritz) Boland of Boscobel, WI, Brenda Naser of Fort Calhoun, NE, Valerie Roll of Marion, IA, and Karen Scheckel of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; her father and mother-in-law, Mason and Florine (Roussel) Cate; her daughter, Danielle Cate; two brothers, Don Hendricks and Terry Hendricks; her brother and sister-in-law Ronald and Mary Cate; her sister and brother-in-law Nancy and Rollin Duensing; three nephews, David Hendricks, Chris Young, and Terry Hunt; and a niece, Anna Weitz.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Resources Unite of Dubuque or Earth Angels of Dubuque.  Sharon felt strongly about both of their missions to help others in our community in times of need.

Kathleen M. Stender

Kathleen M. “Kathy” Stender, 73, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Saturday morning, July 11, 2020, at Westwing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10 A.M., Thursday, July 16, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

Kathleen Marie Widel was born on March 13, 1947 in Van Nuys, California to Paul and Mary (Shultz) Widel. She graduated from Myrtle Creek High school in Myrtle Creek, Oregon. She married Ronald Dale Stender on April 9, 1966 in Monmouth, Iowa. People said they were too young and it wouldn’t work, but it did for 54 wonderful years. Three children were born to this union, Steven, John and Dianna.

Upon moving to Iowa, “Kathy” started working for Haye’s Café and the Green Mill Café. For over 30 years she had been employed with the Midland Community School District working as cook, teacher’s aide and custodian. She was a mentor to many staff and students and was loved by all.

“Kathy” was a member of the Monmouth Faith United Methodist Church. She enjoyed crocheting, baking and had decorated hundreds of cakes. She loved her family and grandchildren more than anything.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Ronald Stender of Monmouth, IA; children, Steve (Kathy) Stender of Washington, IA, John (Jennifer) Stender of Baldwin, IA, and Dianna (Jeremy) Dunlavey of Ankeny, IA; 8 grandchildren, Ty, Derek and Curtis Stender, Sydney and Lane Stender, Makenna, Emma and Michael Dunlavey; and siblings, Karen (Tom) Schwenker of Maquoketa, IA, Mary Smith of Atlanta, GA, Paul (Millie) Widel of Maquoketa, IA, Elizabeth (J.R.) Lind of Camanche, IA, and Janice (Paul) Russell of DeWitt, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her father-in-law and mother-in-law Carlyle and Nellie Stender.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kathleen M. “Kathy” Stender memorial fund has been established.

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

Joseph M. Rollinger

Joseph M. “Joe” Rollinger, 83, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday evening, July 10, 2020, at Westwing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating Joe’s life will be held at 2 P.M., Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. A private family visitation was held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place.

Joseph Michael Rollinger was born on September 5, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Henry and Martha (Foley) Rollinger. He was a 1954 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army receiving an honorable discharge. He married Janet L. Riley on February 14, 1956 in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union five children were born, Jane, Jill, Joel, Jay and John.

Upon returning home after serving his country, Joe worked as a licensed barber for ten years at Stuckel Barbershop in Maquoketa. He then went to college and received an Associate Degree from Clinton Community College which enabled him to receive his next job working for the Iowa Department of Public Safety as a dispatcher and station manager at Maquoketa, Atlantic and Cedar Rapids. He retired in 1989.

Joe was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club. He delivered Meals-On-Wheels in Maquoketa for many years, as well as participated in several Peace Pipe Players productions. He loved his family and attending his children and grandchildren’s events of all kinds. He logged many hours on the bleachers. He also liked motorcycles and enjoyed riding around town and to and from work when in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Janet Rollinger of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jane (John) Cook of Boone, IA, Jill (David) Files of Carmi, IL, Joel (Joni) Rollinger of Decorah, IA, Jay (Khristy) Rollinger of Bettendorf, IA, and John (Kim) Rollinger of Eldridge, IA; a sister, Joan McClimon of Dyersville, IA; 12 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren (with one on the way).

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Donald and Jerry Rollinger, and sisters Kay Keil and Teresa Welch.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Joseph M. “Joe” Rollinger memorial fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family. Please feel free to call or stop at the funeral home with notes of condolence or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Rita Bemis

Rita Bemis, 90, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, July 10, 2020, at Bethany Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 13,  at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home Facebook page. Rev. Phillip Gibbs will officiate.  Use of masks and social distancing are kindly requested by the church. Visitation will be private. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Rita was born April 27, 1930 in Dubuque, the daughter of Frank and Lorraine (Thomas) Wagner. Rita was educated at Immaculate Conception Academy and at St. Francis School of Nursing. She married Harry J. Bemis on July 15, 1950 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on January 9, 2009.

Rita was employed as a pediatric nurse at Xavier Hospital. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and Church of the Resurrection.  Rita served as class chairperson for the I.C. Alumnae, and as president, secretary, and newsletter editor. She was also a member of the Dubuque County Farm Bureau. Rita enjoyed sewing, baking chocolate chip and sugar cookies for her family, and playing cards with various card clubs.

Rita is survived by her children, Steve (Mary) Bemis, Mary (Bob) Eigenberger, Pam Baal, Rev. Terry (Justine) Bemis, Christine (Tom) Rogers, and Tim (Amy) Bemis, all of Dubuque, Theresa (Jay) Erschen of Apache Junction, AZ, Linda (Tyler) Dugan of Madison, WI,  Harry (Jenny) Bemis III, and Dan Bemis, both of Davenport, IA; 22 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren; her siblings, Sr. Mary Ann Wagner OSF of Dubuque, Patricia Billings of Peoria, AZ, Sr. Anthony Wagner OSF of Dubuque, David (Judy) Wagner, of Rubicon, WI, and Denis (Kathy) Wagner of Asbury; a brother in law, Bud Kass of New Lisbon, WI; and many extended family members.

In addition to her husband, Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Richard; her twin sisters Jeanan Mullen and Jean in infancy; her sister, Marilyn Kass; and her sister in law, Kathy Wagner.

Rita’s family would like to thank Bethany Home for their great care of Rita, and to Hospice of Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Marie M. Ambrosy

Marie M. Ambrosy, 86, of Dubuque, formerly of Otter Creek, died Friday, July 10, 2020, at the Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.

Visitation will be from 8:30 AM until 10:45 AM Saturday July 18, 2020 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1870 St. Ambrose Street, Dubuque. 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 Marie’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marie will be 11:00 AM Saturday, July 18, 2020, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Father Dave Ambrosy as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Lawrence Cemetery in Otter Creek. 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.

Marie was born April 27, 1934, in Garryowen, the daughter of Michael and Ruth Johnson Curtis. On May 10, 1955, she married Lavern S. Ambrosy in St. Patrick Catholic Church, North Garryowen. He died October 8, 2015.

She was a homemaker and farm wife, then after the kids were in school she enjoyed working at Maquoketa Care Center.  She made the best homemade bread, pies and cinnamon rolls.  She was a 4H leader for the Otter Creek Starlets Club for many years, member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church and the Rosary Society, and St. Anthony Catholic Church after they moved to Dubuque in 1998. They enjoyed their retirement years in Dubuque and loved traveling.  At 6:30 PM each night she could be found watching Wheel of Fortune. She also loved Molly B. Polka and Daniel O’Donnell shows. She cherished time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She loved visits from nieces and nephews as well.

Survivors include four daughters, Mary Jo (Erv) Felderman of Bellevue, Sharon Hansen of Clinton, Janet (Bill) Capesius of LaMotte, IA, and Joan (Jerome) Beckley of Otter Creek, IA; three sons, Father Dave Ambrosy of Bellevue, Bob (Robin) Ambrosy of Dubuque, and Mark (Mary) Ambrosy of Maquoketa; 11 grandchildren, Tim (Kristin) Felderman, Andrea (Jason) Boldt, Tabitha (Jon) Heiar, Jason (Tina) Marcus, Emily (Bob) Roth, Jacob (Megan Redmond) Capesius, Josh (Molly Murphy) Beckley, Mason Ambrosy, Stacia (Bram) Judge, Matt Ambrosy, Zach Beckley and Abby (Andy) Richmond; 11 great-grandchildren, Madison, Sydney, Spencer and Carson Felderman, Ava and Reese Boldt, Tristan Staver, Evelyn Roth and baby Roth due in January, Dawson and Kyler Judge, and Liam Richmond; and three sister-in-laws, Ruth Ambrosy, Pat Curtis, and Helen Curtis.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Diane Ambrosy who died on October 30, 1988, six brothers, James Curtis, John (Betty) Curtis, Ronnie (Harriet) Curtis, Alan Curtis., Larry Curtis, Gary (Mary Ellen) Curtis, three sisters, Charlene (Florian) Herrig, Bernadine (Ben) Manemann, and Eleanor Curtis, four brother-in-laws, Sylvester (Elizabeth), Ralph, Vince, Harold, and Merlin Ambrosy, and one sister-in-law, Bernice (Tony) Schiessl.

The family would like to thank the staff at Mill Valley Care Center and all the wonderful neighbors in Otter Creek and Dubuque.

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 Marie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kay F. Gansemer

Kay Frances (Mohr) Gansemer, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 4th, 2020.

No public visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Kay was born on January 10, 1936 in Dundee, Iowa the daughter of Leonard and Marjorie (Nelson) Mohr. She graduated from St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa. She married Joseph Gansemer on October 15, 1956.

Kay worked at Xavier Hospital – Mercy Hospital for 37 years, she loved her job.

She belonged to a card club with the girls, Red Hat Club and the Xavier Social Club. She always had a story when she came home. She loved all those girls!!

Family was everything to Kay, her pride and joy was her granddaughter Kaycee. She loved to cook and made the best potato salad around. All were welcome in her home and she loved to hear her daughters sing.

She is survived by her husband Joseph; daughters Barbara (Tom) Owen, of Tacoma, WA and Sherri Gansemer of Dubuque. Her granddaughter Kaycee Ploessl of Dubuque; son-in-law Ron Bunse of Brookfield, MI; her siblings Shirley (Harlan) Thillend, Bud Mohr, and Bev White along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Carmen Kay Bunse; her parents and her sister Mary Murphy.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to her family.

The family would like to thank Paramount EMT (my angels), and to their family and friends for all their love and support throughout this journey. Mom will be forever in our hearts.

Donald L. Torrey

Donald L. Torrey, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:45 a.m., on Thursday, July 9, 2020, at his home at the age of 86, with his family by his side.  To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, on Monday, July 13, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Don’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 12:00 noon on Monday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Don was born on October 11, 1933, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Henry and Lillian (Utzig) Torrey.

Don was a proud life long Dubuquer who graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1951.  He was a dedicated employee of Dubuque Stamp for 23 years, and then went to work at John Deere Dubuque Works, where he was a toolmaker for 23 years until his retirement in 1996.  Don was united in marriage to Shirley Duehr on June 21, 1952.  They were blessed with 3 children together before Shirley sadly passed away on July 4, 1993.  Don was fortunate enough to once again find love with Theresa Baumgartner Pregler, and they married on January 8, 1994.  When he wasn’t working, Don was a true sports fan, the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Cubs were by far his favorite teams, but he was known to occasionally root for the Bears.  He also enjoyed collecting model cars, watching Westerns and NCIS.  Don liked traveling and his some of his favorite adventures were on trips to Mexico.  He kept in touch with the “work buddies” he made over the last 35 years, and enjoyed going to “Smokers” with them.  Above all, Don’s family was the most important part of his life, he loved spending time with all of them whenever he could.  Our hearts are truly broken at losing Don, but we look forward to the day when we are all happily reunited for Eternity.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his loving wife,
Theresa Torrey, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Pam (Charles) Butcher
and Michael (Krista) Torrey, both of Dubuque, IA;

a son-in-law,
William Hallahan, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Aaron (Abigail) Butcher, Alicia (Alex) Ellerbeck, Chad (Angie) Hallahan, Corey (Jody) Hallahan and Nicholas Torrey;

his great-grandchildren,
Alice, Adeline, Zenner, Zealand, Cassie, Jenna, Jeremy, Cody and Jada;

a great great-grandchild,
Kai;

his siblings,
Carol (Bob) Brandel, Dubuque, IA
and Henry “Midge” (Lois) Torrey, St. Pauls, NC;

and his in-laws,
Margaret Koch,
Richard Baumgartner,
Ileane Deutsch,
Roger Shaw,
Marlene Baumgartner
and Shari (Doug) Ryder.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his 1st wife, Shirley Torrey; a daughter, Peggy Hallahan; 3 sisters, Virginia (Virtus) Kieffer, Alma “Amy” (Vincent “Jake”) Smith and Arletta “Sis” (Harlan) Knuth; 2 brothers, Ed (Sharon) and Merle “Bud” (Vera) Torrey; and his in-laws, Charles Koch, Mary Baumgartner, Wayne Deutsch Sr., Rita Shaw, Edward Baumgartner, Robert (Ruth) Baumgartner and John Baumgartner.

Don’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, and Don’s long time friend, Jim Dolan, for all of their kindness and care of Don.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and can be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Donald Torrey Family, and will be distributed among Don’s favorite charities.

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

Irene M. Blaser

Irene Marie Blaser, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 7, 2020.

Private family gathering and service will be at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Deacon Bill Biver officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Irene was born on October 5, 1948 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Joseph and Vernida (Klinkenberg) Wall. She married the love of her life, David Blaser Sr. on October 7, 1967.

Irene enjoyed playing cards, camping and sewing on different projects. Irene loved her children and grandchildren unconditionally and especially enjoyed spending time them and her friends.

She is survived by her children, Tammy (Jon) Sauser, of Farley, David (Trisha) Blaser Jr., and Tracy (Jasen) Otting both of Dubuque. Her grandchildren CJ, Cassie, Allison, Ashley, Jade, Bailey, Madisyn, Landon, and Ellie Kate; one great grandchild Roman. Her siblings Karen McClain, Jim (Kay) Wall, Judy (Joe) Daack, Steve Wall, Tom (Kathy) Wall, and Rita (Dave) Melssen. Sisters-in-law Connie Wall, Lisa Wall and Margaret Blaser. Family friend Jack Swenson and her canine companion Molly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Dave Blaser Sr.; a daughter Tina; brothers Joe and Jerry Wall and brother-in-law Ron Blaser.

An Irene Marie Blaser memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank all their friends and family members for all their support.

Alvina M. (Baikie) Mauer

Alvina May (Baikie) Mauer, 88, died Tuesday, July 7, 2020 at Finley Hospital, Dubuque.

A memorial service will be held at 11am, Saturday, July 18, 2020 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Alvina was born on August 4, 1931 on Mulligan Island in Labrador, Canada, the daughter of James and May Baikie. She lived in a log cabin, built by her father. They moved to North West River, Labrador, where she lived until she married Russell Mauer in 1954.

While in the Air Force, Russel was transferred back to the United States. They moved to Dubuque, Iowa. It was there that their daughter was born in 1956. Her husband, Russell preceded her in death in 1957. Alvina then spent a year in a Tuberculosis Hospital.

Alvina started working at Roshek’s Department Store part time, then full time at 1st National Bank. She was a long-time member of P.E.O. She was also involved with Grand View Avenue United Methodist Church and raising her daughter.

Alvina is survived by her daughter, Gayle Mauer and her husband, Ed Boop; sister, Hanna (Baikie) Massie; brother, Thomas Baike; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by parents, James and May Baikie; brothers, Stanley and Norman Baikie; sisters, Betty (Baikie) Lloyd, Ethel (Baikie) McClean and Fiona (Baikie) Massie; and nieces, Victoria McLean and Brenda Baikie.

An Alvina Mauer Memorial Fund has been established.

Special thank you to the staff at Stonehill Care Center and to the doctors and nurses at Finley Hospital for their compassionate care.