Obituaries Archive

Irene L. Engelken

Irene L. Engelken, 86, of Earlville, passed away Monday, January 25, 2021, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be held 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 28, 2021 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 28, 2021 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tony Nketiah will officiate.

Irene was born April 6, 1934 in Farley, Iowa the daughter of Joseph and Marcella (Kelchen) Greenwood.  She married Julius Engelken on November 8, 1956 in Farley.  Together they farmed in Oneida, Iowa until retiring in 1992 when they moved to Earlville.  Irene & Julius loved to polka dance and were members of Delaware County Pork Producers and grilling team.

Irene enjoyed gardening, baking, and spending time with her family and friends. She cherished her time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will also be greatly missed by her dog, Ginger.

Irene is survived by her 4 children: Steven “Oneida” (Denise) of Oneida, Jolene (Mark) Kaufman of Dubuque, Dale (Lisa) of Des Moines, Leann (Ed) McIntyre of Delhi;

10 grandchildren: Stephanie Cooksley, Joshua & Gabrielle Engelken, Kelsey, Cassandra & Madison McIntyre, Brigette (Nick) Price, Patrick (Rachel) Duffy and Megan (Bailey) Sherlin, Trey (Emily) Beck; 8 great grandchildren; a sister, Rita Heims of Coggon; in-laws: George (Sherry) Engelken of Atlanta, GA, Linda Greenwood of Farley, Verna Greenwood of Cascade.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Julius in 2015, siblings: Mary (Elmer) Weber, Raymond Greenwood, Eldon Greenwood; in-laws: Cletus (Arlene) Engelken, Edwin (Aletha) Engelken, Elmer (Mary Lou) Engelken, Charlie (Alma) Brehm, Elmer Heims.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Helping Hands for their wonderful care.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Cards may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, 750 – 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, Iowa  52040.

Patrick W. O’Rourke

Patrick W. O’Rourke 90 of Dubuque, IA passed away Monday morning, January 25, 2021 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 30, 2021 at Saint Joseph Key West Catholic Church with Msgr. Wilgenbusch officiating and Fr. Rod Allers as Homilist. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. at the church until time of mass.  Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Chapel Mausoleum. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to wear your facemask and if you are unable to attend a live stream of the mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Patrick was born on March 21, 1930 in Dubuque the son of Vincent and Theresa (Slattery) O’Rourke. He married Darlene J.  LeConte on September 12, 1953 at Saint Joseph Key West Church.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife Darlene and their thirteen children: Steve (Barb) O’Rourke; Patty O’Rourke; Jan Gibbs, Carol O’Rourke; Mary (Kevin) Zeimet; Michelle (Ed) Tehan; David O’Rourke; Mark (Robin) O’Rourke; Joe O’Rourke; Renee (Randy, deceased) Stillmunkes; Tonya (Brian) Bender; Sarah (Chris) Weaver; and Russ (Danielle) O’Rourke; 15 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and his brother Paul O’Rourke.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother Vincent De Paul, a sister Kate (Cecil) Hightower; a sister-in-law Mary Jane O’Rourke, and a great grandchild.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Camp Courageous, Monticello, IA or Camp Albrecht Acres, Sherrill, IA in Patrick’s honor.

Dad would often say…

“Do not cry because I died, smile because I Lived!

Remember folk’s as you pass by, as you are now so once was I.

As I am now you will be, remember folk’s, and pray for me.

I did it my way.”

Megan M. Sproule

Megan M. Sproule, 60 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, January 25, 2021, at home after a courageous battle with cancer. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, a private family service will be held on Friday, January 29, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Masks and social distancing will be required. Burial of the cremated remains will follow in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena.

She was born on October 22, 1960, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Dale “Chip” and Mona (Mooney) Chapman. Megan graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1978. She was united in marriage to Eugene R. “Geno” Sproule on August 11, 1979, and he survives.

Megan began working right out of high school at Stairs Bakery and Deli for two years. She then worked as a cook for the Market House Tavern. Megan had a daycare in her home for nine years and cleaned houses for seven of those nine years. She was a floral designer for ten years at the Galena Greenhouse. Megan then worked at Country Inn and Suites as a housekeeping manager for five years. In 2011, she began working at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community until 2019.

Megan enjoyed gardening, crafting, and spending time with her grandkids, and attending their many sporting events. She loved time with her friends and enjoyed all their talks, lunches, and walks.  It meant so much to her that they were always there when she needed them.

Megan is survived by her husband, Eugene “Geno”, her two sons, Nathan (Michelle) and Joshua (Danielle) Sproule, four grandchildren, five brothers, Rick (Mary) Chapman of Galena, Steve Chapman, of Dubuque, Rod (Debbie) Chapman, of Oak Creek, WI, Kevin (Julie) Chapman, of Dubuque and Paul Chapman of De Pere, WI, three sisters, Brigid “Bea” (Kenneth) Ellerbach, of Epworth, IA, Cara (Roger) Middendorf and Kristen Chapman, both of East Dubuque, seven nieces, ten nephews, twelve great-nieces, and 13 great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Hermann and his staff, Hospice of Dubuque especially, Jessica, Julie, Amy, Jennifer, and Dianne. Your care and compassion during this difficult time will never be forgotten. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com.

Donald E. Kruse

Donald E. Kruse, 80, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on January 24th, 2021 at Ennoble Manor. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Don was born in Dubuque on January 13th, 1941, the son of Edward and Lenore (Schwendinger) Kruse.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High school in 1959.

Don married Jeannie Breitbach on September 28th, 1963, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Dubuque.

Don was a carpenter for Richard’s Construction and Pusateri Construction. He also worked at John Deere Dubuque Works, Zephyr Aluminum Products, and retired from Portzen Construction. After retirement, he began working for Camp Little Cloud.

He was a member of Carpenters Union #678 and Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.

Before his stroke, Don enjoyed golfing and traveling all over the country with his wife by his side. Later in life, Don enjoyed watching nature, going out to eat, and visiting the local casinos.

He is survived by his wife, Jeannie; four children, Diane (Steve) Hefel of Peosta, IA., Kevin (Betsy) Kruse of Washington Crossing, PA., Brian (Melanie) Kruse of Wilton, IA., Todd (Robert O’Hara) Kruse of Oak Park, IL.; seven grandchildren, Kristal, Linsey (Daniel), Abbie, Caroline (Steve), Alison, Julianne, Aaron; two great grandchildren, Caleb and Alice; one brother, Gary (Ann) Kruse of Dubuque, IA.; and many relatives, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Edward Kruse; two children, William and Susan; and several In-laws.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established. Memorials in Don’s name may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque, IA, 52003.

The Family would like to thank the staff at Ennoble Manor for all their care and kindness for Don.

Edward H. Kiefer

Edward H. Kiefer, 89, formerly of Asbury, died Sunday, January 24, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Church of the Resurrection from 9:30 am until the time of mass at 10:30 am.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Edward will be 10:30 am Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.  Due to the statewide mask mandate, masks are required at the church.  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 Edward’s family. 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.

Ed was born at his grandparents’ house in Evansville, Indiana, by coal lamp during a power outage, Oct. 2, 1931, to Edward A. and Mona E. (Leinenbach) Kiefer. He graduated from Reitz Memorial High School in Evansville in 1949.

He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955 as a B-29 propeller mechanic. Before and after his military service, he worked with his father at Kiefer Amusement Co. in Henderson, Kentucky.

While stationed at Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois, Ed met Kathleen Currie at a USO dance; they were married on Nov. 26, 1955, at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Belleville. They were married for 62 years, until her death in 2018.

In January 1961, Ed received an associate of science degree in tool and gauge design from Lain Technical Institute, and he began his career at John Deere Dubuque Works that same month. He officially retired in 1994 as an advanced designer in product engineering, but he came out of retirement for a few stints after that. While working at John Deere, Ed co-invented two patented devices (a safety warning device and a backhoe cab window storage mechanism). He said he could have gotten other patents, but the paperwork was too much of a bother.

Ed was a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers; American Legion Post 0656; Resurrection Parish since 1967; and he was a past member of the Knights of Columbus.

Ed was a big Notre Dame fan, cheering them onward to victory many times for many years. He enjoyed woodworking and had a knack for fixing things, including cars, appliances, pinball machines, and jukeboxes. He was known for taking his time finishing projects, saying it gave him satisfaction.

He enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and other activities.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Katie; his brother-in-law, Patrick Currie; his brother-in-law, Donald Tepool; his son-in-law, Tom Hilby; and a niece, Chrissy Mennes.

He is survived by six children: Ann (Al) Kirschbaum of Bloomington, Wisconsin; Eddie P. Kiefer of Eagan, Minnesota; Karen (Frank) Kilcoyne of Lancaster, Wisconsin; Cheryl Hilby of Cuba City, Wisconsin; Janet Kiefer of Dubuque; and Mike (Wendy) Kiefer of Dubuque; 10 grandchildren: Andy (Charlotte) Kilcoyne, Amanda (Justin) Abing, Alyssa Kilcoyne; Adam (Elaine) Hilby, Katie Hilby, Emily (fiancé Austin Kilburg) Hilby, Jeremy (Brianna) Kirschbaum, Nathan Kirschbaum, Ella Kiefer, and Anthony Kiefer; and four great-grandchildren (Hunter, Haileigh, and Hannah Abing and Stella Kilcoyne); his sisters Andrea Tepool and Ramona (David) Paul of Evansville, and a brother, Roger “Podge” (Suzanne) Kiefer of Evansville; as well as other in-laws and nieces and nephews.

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

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

Thomas J. Gansen

Thomas Joseph Gansen, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 16, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona doing what he loved.

A public visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 29^th, 2021 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Please remember to wear your mask and social distance. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com.

Tom was born on May 22, 1953 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Louis and Phyllis (Schlosser) Gansen. He was a graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth. He worked for John Deere for 30 years and then became the owner and operator of Tom Gansen Trucking. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and traveling to many different places.

He is survived by his brother Bob Gansen, of East Dubuque, IL; brother-in-law Dale Sheehy, of Maquoketa , IA; many nieces and nephews including Michelle Gansen, of Eagan, MN, Chris (Shanon) Gansen, of Los Angeles, CA, Marcia (Mike) Ayres, of Denver, CO Rachel (Craig) Winders, of Avondale, AZ, Lindsay (Kory) Sandon, of Sunburst, MT, Carrie (Bob) Herrig, of Maquoketa, Jill (Ryan Barry) Fritz, of Brooklyn, WI, Craig (Anne) Sheehy, of Dubuque, IA and Matt Sheely of Plain, WI.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Nancy Sheely and a brother John Gansen.

The family would like to thank Mesa, Arizona ambulance crew along with the doctors and nurses at Bannon Desert Hospital.

In lieu of flower a Thomas Gansen memorial fund will be established.

Michael S. Horn

Michael S. Horn, age 53, of Guttenberg, Iowa, formerly of Dubuque, completed his earthly journey suddenly on January 16, 2021, after injuries sustained in an automobile accident.  To honor Mike’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 6, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Eagle’s Club, 1175 Century Drive in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on July 15, 1967, in Independence, Iowa, to his proud parents, Dennis and Marcia (Sherrets) Horn.  He spent his formative years in Independence, but the family eventually moved to the Guttenberg area where Mike made many lifelong friends which culminated into an abundance of lifelong memories.  He was a friend to all and was quite active in football, baseball, and basketball throughout his school years.  Mike was a graduate of the Guttenberg High School Class of ’85, and went on to UNI to work on a degree in business.  Mike spent the majority of his working years in auto sales and had many great accomplishments throughout his career. Through Mike’s eyes, his greatest legacies are his 2 sons, Brandon and Austin, whom he loved dearly. Moving next to being a “Papa”, Mike always enjoyed taking Leslee out for ice cream.  Mike continually maintained a devoted relationship with his mother, Marcia, and was always up to bringing a smile into his sister, Autumn’s day.  Mike even made it a priority to drop off his niece, Ryann, at school when time allowed.  Mike was a caring, fun-loving, charismatic man who was beloved by all. Mike enjoyed his rides with Cooper, his time on the river, and was a good storyteller. He was also an avid Cubs and Bears fan who thoroughly enjoyed going to the games with his crew. Family and friends are beyond heart-broken today with the sudden absence of Mike from our daily lives.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his 2 sons,
Brandon (Kim) Horn, Peosta, Iowa,
and Austin Horn, Fennimore, Wisconsin;

his granddaughter,
Leslee Horn;

his loving mother,
Marcia Horn, Elkader, Iowa;

his sister,
Autumn (Al) Hall, Guttenberg, Iowa;

his 2 nieces,
Bailee (Cody) and Ryann;

his great-niece,
Charlee;

his special friend,
Jessica Harbaugh, Guttenberg, Iowa,

his canine companion,
Cooper;

his special bond,
Jerry and Chelsie Skinner, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Horn; his step-father, Skip Hall; and his grandparents, Leonard (Joyce) Sherrets and William (Viola) Horn.

Mike’s family would like to thank all of our family and friends who have offered their compassionate concerns and sympathies during this difficult time.  Your kindnesses mean more than you could ever know.  Thank you!

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

James R. Sudmeier

James R. Sudmeier, 24, of New Vienna passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Sunday, January 24, 2021, at his home in New Vienna.

Visitation will be held from 12 – 1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 30, 2021, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 2 pm. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery.

James was born February 13, 1996, in Dyersville the son of Russell and Rosalie (Heim) Sudmeier. He graduated from Beckman Catholic High School in Dyersville with the Class of 2014. He was currently working as an equipment operator and truck driver for Steger Construction. While he loved his job, he had a real passion for farming.

James is survived by his parents, 1 son, Owen and his mother McKenzi Schmerbach of Millville, IA, his fiancé, Briana Althoff of Manchester, 2 siblings: Molly (Anthony) McAndrew of Dyersville and Robert Sudmeier of New Vienna; two nephews, Eli and Logan McAndrew; aunts and uncles: Ruth Heim of Roselle, IL, Thomas (Bev) Heim of New Albin, IA, Patricia (George) Penokie of Rochester, MN, Harold (Sherri) Heim of Manchester, IA, Alice (Dale) Roling of Dodgeville, WI, Brenda (Pat) Wessels of Dyersville, IA, Marvin (Laurie) Heim of Decorah, IA, George Heim of Dubuque, IA, Kenneth (Bonnie) Heim of Caledonia, MN, Frank (Michelle) Heim of Platteville, WI, Karen (Greg) Amadon of Seattle, WA, and David (Laurie) Heim of New Vienna, IA, Susanne (Moses) De Los Santos of Amana, IA, Jessica (Carlos) Garcia of San Diego, CA, John Sudmeier of Manchester, IA, Sara (Fred) Osborne of Wilmette, IL and Jayne Sudmeier of Dubuque; many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Bernice Heim, James and Helene Sudmeier, step-grandmother, Shirley Heim, an uncle, Robert Chabak and 3 cousins.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com. Cards may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, 750 – 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, Iowa 52040.

Sr. Francesca Koller, O.P.

Sister Francesca “Fran” Koller, O.P., died January 19, 2021 at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI.

Born as Marie Agnes August 10, 1931, to Joseph and Mary (Pimishern) Koller in Appleton,Wis. She was the 10th of 11 children.

She is survived by one brother and one sister and her beloved Dominican Sisters.

Sister Fran was a welcome presence in the classrooms and communities where she lived. She taught with energy and zest in Illinois, Minnesota, South Carolina, Indiana and Wisconsin. She loved adventure and brought her spiritual talents as pastoral minister, liturgist, administrator and chaplain to Iowa, Tennessee, Alaska, Trinidad and again to Wisconsin.

Services will be held Jan 27-28 at Sinsinawa. Miller Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Sister Fran now sings joyfully with the living God.

Ivanelle M. Winders

Ivanelle M. “Ivy” (Hauk) Winders, age 90, of Dubuque, passed away at 3:30 p.m., on Friday, January 22, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center.  To celebrate Ivy’s life, private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Ivy was born on December 6, 1930, in Cassville, Wisconsin, daughter of Joseph and Anna (Hass) Hauk.

Ivy was born and raised in Wisconsin where she graduated from Lancaster High School.  She was a hard worker and was employed in the housekeeping department with Medical Associates for several years until her retirement.  Her faith was an important part of her life, and was evidenced by her long time membership with St. Anthony’s Church.  In her free time, Ivy could be found soaking up some sunshine out tending to her lawn and flower gardens.  She liked to feed the wild birds that came to visit, and always had several houses available for them to take up residence in.  Ivy also enjoyed sitting down relaxing and watching game shows on tv.  She had a special love of animals, and everyone who knew her knew how much she loved her faithful dog, Lexi.  Ivy traveled extensively and has been all over the world.  Stops in Italy at Vatican City to see the Pope, and traveling Switzerland were at the top of her list of favorites.  Ivy’s family, no doubt, meant the world to her.  Ivy was a strong, generous, beautiful woman who lived a hard life, but still managed to raise four hell raising sons on her own.  She gave her all and asked little in return.  If you were lucky enough to be loved by Ivy, you were indeed a very fortunate person.  She will be sadly missed.

Those left to cherish Ivy’s memory include

her children,
James (Dianne) Winders,
Randy Winders,
Dan (Cindy) Winders
and Mitchell Winders, all of Dubuque, IA;

her 7 grandchildren,
Mickie, Jennifer, Jenny, Rob, Ryan, Keri and Eric;

and her 10 great-grandchildren.

Ivy was preceded in death by her parents; a great-grandson, Isaac Weires; and a sister, Eileen (Cletus) Simon.

Ivy’s family would like to thank her friends and neighbors, Pat & Darlene and Jane & Rick, for all of their help over the years.

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

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

Kathy L. Spear

Kathy L. Spear, age 64, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on January 22, 2021, at home, with her dear friends by her side.  To honor Kathy’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on June 12, 2021, with further details to be announced at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathy’s family.

Kathy was born on June 12, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, a daughter to Eugene C. and Kathleen M. (Schwendinger) Heeren.  She was born with a beautiful heart and soul and would share it so generously with the world around her throughout her entire 64 years among us.  Kathy’s passion in life was gardening through and through.  She eventually transformed her gifts in the garden into a viable business and became the proud owner of Kathy Spear Landscaping almost 20 years ago now.  Her vision and creations can be seen all over town and her last Parade of Ponds was the perfect culmination of all of the countless hours she had devoted to her dream.  Kathy was also known for her desire to live a natural and holistic lifestyle.  The wealth of knowledge she had gained over the years, especially when it came to essential oils, was simply amazing to everyone she helped.  Kathy viewed the world as a palate of positive potentials which only had to be explored, embraced, and embarked upon as each opportunity presented itself.  Kathy’s love for rocks and gems was also quite legendary and some of her fondest moments were found within her collection and attendance at the shows.  Kathy also enjoyed traveling, and wintering in Tucson with Jerry, always enjoying the time they had to simply relax and enjoy some quality time together.  We must not forget about Kathy’s love for cats as well. She had 2 cuddling companions around her at all times and never missed a chance to cast a little love into their days, just as they did for her.  It’s quite difficult to imagine that Kathy has been called home so soon, but she surely didn’t go without a fight.  The last two years have been faced head on and with relentless determination, no matter what the cancer would throw at her next.  We are beyond blessed to have known and loved such an amazing fighter and will treasure forever every single memory which Kathy leaves behind.  We pray now that our prayers for peace from her earthly struggles have been answered and may the healing and loving hands of her Lord and Savior hold her securely until we meet again.  Thank you, Kathy, for knowing how to turn the minutes into moments and for never letting your light dim…not even a little!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathy include,

her son,
Kevin J. Fox, Epworth, Iowa;

her parents,
Eugene “Gene” Heeren, Dubuque, Iowa;
and Kathleen Schwendinger, Saint George, South Carolina;

her sisters,
Barb (Gene) Buhr, Faribault, Minnesota;
Tina (Mark) Linden, Cuba City, Wisconsin;
and Gina (Dan Sr.) Bonnett, Goodyear, Arizona;

her special friends,
Jerry Volk, Cascade, Iowa;
and Chris (Desiree) Bibb, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kathy’s family would like to thank everyone who has helped Kathy throughout her courageous battle with cancer, especially the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional, compassionate, and tender care of Kathy during her most difficult days.

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

Rita M. Decker

Rita M. (Backes) Decker, age 90, of Dubuque, passed away at 3:52 a.m., on Friday, January 22, 2021, at home surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Rita’s life, private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  The service will be available for viewing on the Behr Funeral Home Facebook page Tuesday, January 26, 2021.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery Mausoleum.

Rita was born on December 5, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Leo and Mathilda (Pfohl) Backes.

Rita graduated from Visitation Academy and went on to L.P.N. Nursing school.  After finishing her training, Rita went to work as a nurse supervisor with Bethany Home for 11 years.  She also did in-home health care for several families.  Rita was never one to sit still.  She was a talented seamstress and made several beautiful embroidery pieces for her family and friends.  Rita enjoyed planting a big garden and would can her harvest to use in the kitchen throughout the year.  Much to her family’s delight Rita was an excellent chef and baker.  She was well known for her meticulous housekeeping and her love of reading and playing cards.  Rita enjoyed  traveling, and cruises to the Carribean quickly became her vacation of choice.  Rita was a very social person, and also had a great love of animals, especially her cats and little Pekingese dogs.  She was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Church and the Dominic Club for several years.  Her family was the most important aspect of Rita’s life.  She was always very interested in what everyone was up to and would check in with them daily.  Rita was truly one of a kind, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Rita’s memory include

her children,
Leonard (Libby) Decker, Dubuque, IA,
Janaan (Glenn) Anderson, Holland, MI,
Wayne (Penny) Decker, Waterloo, IA,
Nancy (Larry) Thompson, Portland, OR,
Judy (Bob) Ward, Marion, IA,
Debbie Kirby, Rifle, CO,
Barb (Jeremy) Kass, Bellevue, IA,
Tina (David) Ries, Monticello, IA
and Roger (Celia Bullington) Decker, Yuma, AZ;

her 12 grandchildren;

her 15 great-grandchildren;

and her brothers,
Raymond (Elaine) Backes, Dubuque, IA
and Lee (Nancy Gollmer) Backes Jr., Milwaukee, WI.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Karla Dolphin; a son-in-law, Donnie Kirby; and a sister-in-law, Mary Backes.

Rita’s family would like to thank Dr. Cao, the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, and all of the staff members of The Rose, for all of their kind, compassionate and loving care of Rita and her family.

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

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

Robert L. Schreiber

Robert L. Schreiber, age 94, of Dubuque, passed away Friday January 22, 2021.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, January 26, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Dubuque, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. Rev. Jim Goerend will officiate. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com, where a link to the live-stream is available.

Because our dad was adamant that the celebration of his life in the midst of a pandemic not risk the safety of his family, friends and colleagues, there will be no wake.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Jeanette, to whom he was married 64 years. He missed her every day following her death in 2014.

He is survived by three children: Maryellen (Glen) Thompson of Williamsburg, VA; Jim (Renee) Schreiber of Dubuque; and Dr. Ann Schreiber, also of Dubuque; four grandchildren Zachary (Jana) Schreiber of Orlando, FL;  Andrea (Dr. James) Quann of Des Moines, IA, LT.  Andrew Ferring of Norfolk, VA; and Martha (Jared) Levy of Dubuque who have among them 6 great-grandchildren:  Reagan and Hudson Schreiber, Brendan, Thomas, Audra Quann, and Calvin Levy.

He is also survived by his brother John (Mary Ann) Schreiber.

He was preceded in death by parents Carl & Emily, sisters Mary and Marita, brothers Fred and Charlie and all their spouses.

Robert was a veteran of WW II. After the war he graduated from Loras College and enjoyed a long career at Interstate Power Company (now Alliant Energy).

He retired at 62 and spent years exploring the country.

His children thank him for trying to instill common sense and real life practical skills.

He will be remembered for his endless stories, his constant supply of jokes and his dry sense of humor. He was a kind man, and a kind gentleman, who will live on in the hearts of many who knew him.

A very special thanks to the staff of Grand Meadows facility.

A memorial Fund is being established in lieu of flowers.

Mark J. Cook

Mark James Cook, 73, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 2:35 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Mercy One-Dubuque.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with Deacon Jamie Schilling officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Mark was born on April 30, 1947 in Dubuque, IA, the son of James D. and Lucille (Lange) Cook.  He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1965. On May 29, 1971 he was united in marriage to Debbie Arthofer at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Mark was formerly employed at International Harvester Trucks in Dubuque. He was a member of Teamsters Local # 120.  Mark was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving during the Vietnam War.

He enjoyed metal detecting, fishing, coin collecting, Nascar Racing and spoiling his grandchildren.

Surviving is his wife Debbie; two children, Rob (Carrie) Cook of Dubuque and Lisa (Ken) Brace of Mokena, IL; 11-grandchildren, Wade (Christina), Matt (Paige), Brandon, Derek, Nolan (Ashlyn), Jordan, Devon, Addison, Mason, Harley and Quinn; two siblings, Patricia (Bob) Kaesbauer and Phillip (Cindy) Cook both of Dubuque; his in-laws, Jim Reilly, Diane Cook, Marlene Cook, John (Shari) Arthofer, Rhonda (Craig) Williams, Pete (Julie) Arthofer, Trudy Arthofer, Toby (Sharon) Arthofer and Sue (Ed) Egloff; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lucille; siblings, Kathleen Reilly, Margaret Wood and Robert and Gerald Cook.

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

Velma A. Martens

Velma A. Martens, 93,  of Oak Park Place, passed away Friday, January 22, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 26, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where a service will be held at 11 a.m., and will be live-streamed on the funeral home Facebook page. Sr. Margaret Ann Kramer will officiate. Masks and social distancing are required. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Velma was born February 10, 1927 in Epworth, IA, the daughter of Fred and Lucy (Oberfoell) Osterhaus. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy. Velma married William “Red” Martens on May 30, 1949 at Church of the Nativity, Dubuque.  He preceded her in death on July 2, 1997.

Prior to her marriage, Velma worked in the office at Sears. She was a long-time member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, where she volunteered in the rectory.

Velma always made sure to keep busy. While her children were young, she served as a Girl Scout Leader and a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts. Velma was a member of the Lacoma Ladies Golf League. In her later years, she volunteered at the Red Cross Blood Center and the Finley Hospital Sunshine Circle.

Velma and Red enjoyed socializing at the North End Gun Club, and after the death of her husband, she continued to go out with the North End Gun Club Widows. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society.

She loved to play board games and travel, and greatly enjoyed spending time with her family and her “adopted” family, the Mettilles.

Velma is survived by her son, Bob Martens, of Dubuque; her daughter, Sue (Joe) Mettille, of Dubuque; triplet grandsons Jeffrey Mettille, of Washington, DC, Matthew Mettille, of San Francisco, CA, and Nathan (Rachel) Mettille, of Eagan, MN;  three great-grandchildren, Lucy, Emmy, and Max Mettille;  her sister-in-law, Nancy Osterhaus of Davenport, IA; and her nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband;  her son, William J. Martens; and her brothers, Merlin (Dolores), John (Arlien), and Donald Osterhaus.

Velma’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the family of Don and Margaret Mettille for their years of friendship; and to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center, and Oak Park Place for their care of Velma.

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