Obituaries Archive

Thomas W. Spear, Jr.

Thomas W. Spear, Jr, 56, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Thursday December 10, 2020 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Des Moines, IA.

Funeral services will be 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday December 16, 2020 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dubuque, with Pastor Jonathan Crawford officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League. The funeral will be live streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page.

Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday at the Church. Due to the Coronavirus, masks, social distancing, and occupancy restrictions will be observed.

Tom was born August 27, 1964 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Wilma (Wehrspann) & Thomas W. Spear, Sr.  He graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School, class of 1982. Stationed in San Diego, CA, Tom proudly served our country with the U. S. Marine Corps from August 1982 – August 1986. His military involvement led him to see and live in other parts of the world, such as Korea, Taiwan and Japan.

He had a strong drive and work ethic, spending most of his career in sales, and was a very successful businessman. Most recently, Tom owned and operated Fire Safety Technologies, of which he poured his heart into.

On September 22, 2007, Tom married the love of his life, Debra (Adams) Weber. Together, they enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and friends, and shared their love of music. Tom loved to give Deb a hard time and certainly knew how to make her laugh.

The center of his world was his family. He was blessed with two sons and gained three more. Together, Tom & Deb blended a family of “his, hers and ours.” In Tom’s eyes, family wasn’t defined by blood and he treated all five of their sons as his own. He was also blessed with five beautiful daughters in law and was the proud Papa of 14 grandchildren whom he loved with all his heart. He was fondly given the name “Uncle Big Shot” by many of his nieces and nephews for his big heart and constant generosity and support.

A lifetime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tom was a man of strong faith. He found his love for music by singing with his family in church at a young age. This is one of the many places he shared his amazing and beautiful musical talents which he will be remembered for.

In social gatherings, Tom was the life of the party. He was known to sing and play his guitar, share funny jokes, and always had the best dish to pass. He loved the outdoors and was an avid sports fan. In his free time, Tom enjoyed a good game of golf or cheering on his favorite teams including the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears and Cubs.  He could also be found in the stands supporting his grandchildren, nieces and nephews with pure love and pride.

Tom will be missed immensely by all who knew him. His big smile and mischievous laughter will never be forgotten. Our hearts are breaking but we know Heaven’s choir gained a good one.

Surviving is his wife, Debra; five sons, Ryan (Michelle) Spear, Jeff (Shelley) Spear, Doug (Dawn) Weber, Matt (Sarah) Weber all of Dubuque, and Christopher (Jennifer) Weber of Galena, IL; 14-grandchildren, Kaylee, Harper, Bella, Jordin, Jasmine, Jaxon, Brennan, Genevieve, Brooklynn, Brayden, Matilyn, Evalyn, Cassidee and Mason, and one on the way; his sisters, Kris Kunkel, Deb Husemann and Ellen (Jeff) Hermanson; his brothers-in-law, Dave (Tina) Adams and Don (Kim) Adams; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Wilma; siblings, Jackie (Jim) Shireman, Rick Spear, and an infant sister Kathy, his brother-in-law, Rudy Husemann.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the V. A. Clinics and Hospitals in Dubuque, Iowa City and Des Moines for the wonderful care given to Tom throughout his recent health complications.

In lieu of flowers, a Thomas W. Spear, Jr Memorial has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Wayne E. Adrian

Wayne E. Adrian, 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, December 12, 2020, at his home surrounded by family.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 A.M. on Thursday, December 17, 2020, at the Elwood United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 P.M. on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery with military honors. It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Wayne Edward Adrian was born on January 20, 1933 in Elwood, Iowa, to August Edward and Alma Bernice (Ruggeberg) Adrian. He was a 1950 graduate of Elwood High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War earning an honorable discharge. He married Twyla Lee Sculley on March 18, 1961 at the Elwood United Methodist Church, and together they farmed and raised their family southeast of Elwood for many years until moving to Maquoketa.

Wayne was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, Zealous Masonic Lodge #435 of Oxford Junction, and the American Legion Menzo Widel Post #381 of Lost Nation.

As a proud veteran, one of his most memorable experiences was attending the Quad Cities Honor Flight in 2013. Wayne was dedicated to his family and attended all of their events. He enjoyed his winters in Florida and was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs fan. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time with friends, especially going to McDonald’s every morning with the “coffee club”.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Twyla Adrian of Maquoketa, IA; children, Dean (Tammy) Adrian of Maquoketa, IA, Rachel (Todd) Till of Delmar, IA, and Laura (Craig) Levien of Davenport, IA; 9 grandchildren, Chelsea (Brock) Bowman, Tyler (Demi) Adrian, Michael (Kelsey) Till, Chad (Ashley) Till, Stephanie (Bobby) Rinzel, Luke Seyfert, Justin Seyfert, Martha Levien, and Mark Levien; 9 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Kathryn Jebsen of Chetek, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Elinor Kleinsmith, and a brother Ronald Adrian.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or the Quad Cities Honor Flight.

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

Madelyn M. Connolly

Madelyn M. Connolly, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 12, 2020 at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, MN.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 17, 2020 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Placid Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church until time of mass. Please remember to wear your mask and if you are unable to attend a live stream will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Madelyn was born on September 2, 1927 in Bernard, Iowa the daughter of Ray and Marguerite (Hawks) Hutchins. She married Delbert Connolly on May 14, 1960 at St. Patrick’s Church, North Garryowen.

Madelyn was a homemaker most of her life. She was a proud Irish girl and loved going to parties and dances with Del and their many friends. She also enjoyed going to garage sales with her sister and watching television mysteries. Madelyn loved living in Dubuque and did not enjoy traveling too much because she always said no place she visited was ever as beautiful as Dubuque. Most of all, Madelyn loved spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her 3 children: Kathy (Tim) Schwanz, Waterloo, IA; Pat (Paula) Connolly, Anoka, MN; Lisa Brandenburger, Fridley, MN; 9 grandchildren, Jeremy (Lyndsey) Schwanz, Kevin (Irna) Schwanz, Ryan Schwanz, Chelley Chorn, Michaela Chorn, Sarah Chorn, Alicia (Matt) Llewellyn, Alan Peterson, Faith Hook; 14 great-grandchildren; her brother Robert (Carol) Hutchins; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her sister Dorothy (Leo) Cox, and her brother William (Martha) Hutchins.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Dubuque.

Mary A. Lange

Mary Agnes Lange, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 12, 2020 at Bethany Home with her daughters by her side.

Private family services will be held at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Sr. Margaret Ann Kramer officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page. A celebration of Mary’s life will be at a later date.

Mary was born on October 15, 1935 in Dubuque, IA the daughter of John and Veronica (Lex) Regan. She grew up on a farm in Rickardsville, IA and attended Flanagan School, a one room schoolhouse. She graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1953 and on August 29, 1959 she was united in marriage to Carl Lange at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville.

Mary was a devoted wife and mother. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and enjoyed baking, gardening and bird watching. She was best known for her prize-winning fruit pies and apple cakes. She was a volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum for 35 years. She received the governors award for her volunteerism. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose Lodge and worked for Bishops Buffet for many years.

She enjoyed camping and traveling and had a permanent site for 41 years at Paradise Valley in Garnavillo, Iowa where she hosted many fish frys. Mary’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.

Mary is survived by her husband of 61 years Carl; children Mike Lange, Mark Lange, Ron Lange, Rose (Steve) Schulz, Donna (Dave) Wolter, and Doug (Chris) Lange. Her siblings John (Maureen) Regan, Margaret Kurth, Jim (Sandy) Regan, Katie (Perly) Reeg, Jeanne (Leroy) Reeg, and Alice Rhomberg, her sisters-in-law Betty Knabel, and Phyllis Blichman, brothers-in-law Marty Lange and John Lange.

Grandchildren: Kevin (Taylor) Wolter, Kyle (Lacey) Wolter, Stephanie Schulz, Jared (Meghan Silbernagel) Schulz, Grace Lange & Rahne McIntire. Great Grandchildern Holden Wolter & Vivian Wolter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother Tom Regan; a sister Irene Hauber and granddaughter Molly O’Regan Wolter.

Memorials may be mailed to the funeral home and will be distributed by the family between Dubuque Arboretum, Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home for all their compassionate care and support they gave Mary and her family

Leo W. Werner

Leo W. Werner, 67, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away at 12:02 a.m. Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Midwest Medical Center in Galena, IL, from an apparent heart attack.

Private family services will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound, with Rev. James Meltretter officiating. A public graveside service will be at Holy Trinity Cemetery, Scales Mound, IL, at 11:00 AM. Where military honors will be accorded by Illinois National Guard-HONOR GUARD.

Leo was born on June 19, 1953 at Hazel Green, WI, the son of James C. and Sarah R. (Winter) Werner. He was a graduate of Scales Mound High School, class of 1971.
Leo served in the U. S. Army from 1972 – 1974. He was united in marriage to Janet Redfearn in 1974 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church at Schapville, IL. He was a member of the Scales Mound Volunteer Fire Dept. for 46 years, presently serving as Captain.

Leo was employed at Kelly-Springfield Tire Co. in Freeport for 30 years until his retirement. Following retirement he enjoyed driving his dump truck, driving for RT&T Trucking and lastly as a bus driver for the Scales Mound School District.

He was an avid history buff, loved his old western movies, Youtube videos, he was known for his knowledge of guns, enjoyed recreational shooting, and his passion for sports, especially the sports his grandkids participated in. Leo was a # 1 Hornet fan and a BSM Zephyr/Knights fan. He was a proud U. S. Soldier and proud of his Green Bay Packers.

Surviving are his wife of 46 years Janet; three children, Brad (Keri) Werner, Hiedi (Neal) Edelson, and Adam Werner; his four favorite grandchildren, Benjamin, Anniston, Landon and Max; two grand dogs, Asher & Rodgers; two brothers, Dennis Werner and Larry (Brenda) Werner; his father-in-law, Vernon Redfearn of Galena; many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James & Sarah, and his mother-in-law, Ruth (Dotzel) Redfearn.

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

John B. Drexler

John B. Drexler, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 10, 2020 at Grand Meadows Assisting Living Facilities.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 14^th, 2020 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of service. Please remember to wear your mask, if you are unable to attend a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

John was born on November 17, 1930 in Farley, Iowa the son of Ben and Lida Drexler. He attended St. Joseph School in Farley, Iowa. He served in the US Army during the Korean War from 1953 ~ 1955.

He attended Loras College and graduated from Marquette University in 1956. He taught at the Farley High School, then worked for Prudential Insurance for 17 years. He lastly was working for Dubuque Packing Co in quality control and retired after 17 years.

He married Lois Marie Link on July 20, 1957 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church and celebrated 63 years of marriage this past July. He was a member of St. Columbkille Church where he served as usher for 23 years at 4:15pm mass.

John was an avid golfer and long-time member at Lacoma Golf Club, where he had a hole-in-one playing with his grandson Derrek. He enjoyed his winters in Florida and spending time with his family. He was a Dodger fanatic and also enjoyed cheering on the Indianapolis Colts and Iowa Hawkeyes. He enjoyed all kinds of music and was always up for a good game of Euchre.

He is survived by his loving wife Lois; his son David (Mary Esmann) Drexler; brother-in-law Joe (Connie) Link; sisters-in-law Mary Virginia (Dick) Meyers, Barbara Link, Mary Link, and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Wayne (Mary) Drexler, his grandson Derrek Drexler; and brothers-in-law Jack Link, Richard (Mary) Link and Phil Link.

A John Drexler memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, the staff at Grand Meadows especially the Conlon House nurses for the outstanding care of John.

Kevin T. McDermott

Kevin T. McDermott, 63, of Monticello, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at St. Luke’s Unity Point Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Mass will be live streamed on Sacred Heart Monticello Facebook page. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.  Masks are mandatory and social distancing will be followed.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.  Kramer Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Kevin was born December 9, 1957 in Scranton, PA the son of Dr. Anthony L. and Myrna (Graham) McDermott.  He graduated from Monticello High School with the class of 1976.  After High School he continued his education at Coe College and graduated in 1990 with a double major in chemistry and computer science.  He married Shellie Kvale in 1991 and they later divorced.  He worked at Terex in Cedar Rapids as a senior engineer.  Kevin loved his Catholic faith, his family, golf, sci-fi, working on vehicles, inventing things and playing his guitar.

He is survived by his children, Tony McDermott, Katelyn (Austin) Cuesta, Erin McDermott, three grandchildren; Andrew, Aurora, and Wylan Cuesta, siblings; Maureen (Troy) Dawson, Sean McDermott, Patrick (Susan) McDermott, Kelley (Ronald) Jankowski, Shannon (Michael) Smearman, Mary (Jimmy) Dooney, special friend and fiancé, Deborah Thompson, mother of his three children, Shellie Kvale, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Cards, letters and memorials may be mailed to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 791 Monticello, IA 52040. Please include first and last name Kevin McDermott on the outside of the envelope.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com

James H. Thurman

James H. “Jim” Thurman, 77, of rural Galena, IL, passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 at Mercy One Dubuque, from complications due to Covid-19.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a family prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m. with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Due to State and CDC guidelines, facemasks, social distancing and occupancy restrictions will be observed.

A Catholic Mass and Burial will be held at a later date at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bismarck, MO, with Fr. Mark Ebert officiating.  The burial will be at St. John the Apostle Cemetery, Bismarck, MO.

Jim was born on November 3, 1943 at Bonne Terre, MO, the son of Anthony J. and Cecelia M. (Paul) Thurman.  He was united in marriage to Rhonda Kay Clark on August 16, 1969 in Park Hills, MO.

Jim was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U. S. Navy. He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works as a mechanical engineer, retiring in 2002. Jim was a former member of VFW Post #2426 of Desloge, MO.

Jim is survived by his wife Rhonda; three children, Stephanie Mahaffy of Westminster, MD, Carol Lee Thurman and Anthony (Amanda) Thurman both of Dubuque, IA; four grandchildren; his siblings, John W. (Helen) Thurman of Farmington, MO, Paul J. (Shirley) Thurman of Monroe, LA, David G. (Sheila) Thurman of Atlanta, GA, Thomas J. (Sarah) Thurman of Rocky Mount, NC, and Judy L. (Gerald) Heitman of Patton, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.

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

Kathy A. Stahr

Kathy A. Stahr, 58, of Sherrill, died Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, following a year-long battle with cancer that she fought with courage and integrity.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd. 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 Kathy’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kathy will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant and Kathy’s uncle, Father Don Lange as Concelebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. 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.

Kathy was born November 11, 1962, in Dubuque, the daughter of Thomas and Donna Lange Bonz. On October 18, 1986 she married Doug Stahr in Dubuque.

Kathy graduated from Hempstead High School in Dubuque in 1981. She went on to work as a Certified Pharmacy Tech at Mercy Family Pharmacy for 27 years.

She was presented with many awards over her 35 years of volunteer work with the North East Iowa Council and Boy Scout Troop 94. She loved traveling, crafting, and especially crocheting. She cherished her time with her nieces and nephews, her friends, and her friends’ children. She was a kind, giving, welcoming woman, she donated her time to anyone in need.  Everybody felt that they were her best friend.

Survivors include her husband, Doug Stahr of Sherrill; one brother, Mike Bonz of Des Moines; two sisters, Lori Bonz of Des Moines, and Jamie Bonz of Dubuque; nephew, Scott (Julie) Bonz, niece, Cristen (fiance’ Victor) Bonz, nephew, Michael Bonz, nephew, Blaine Stahr, nephew, Sam Costa, nephew, Owen Stahr; great-nieces, Hailie, Hope, and Bentley; father and mother-in-law, Doug and Mary Stahr; brothers- in-law, Jeff Stahr, and Chris Stahr and sister-in-law, Jenny (Will) Stahr.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother Pat Bonz; and one niece Caitlyn Bonz.

A special thank you to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for their care and concern.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Stahr Trust.

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 Kathy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Margaret Cloos-Mueller

Margaret “Peg” Cloos-Mueller, 69, formerly of Springbrook, passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook.  Family will greet friends 9:00 am until Mass time also on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at the Church.  Burial will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Springbrook.

It is required to utilize masks and to observe social distancing during the visitation and during the funeral mass due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the St. Joseph Bellevue – Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook page, on their You Tube Channel.

Margaret was born April 6, 1951, the daughter of James and Kathleen (Gonner) Cloos.  She married Donald Mueller on May 22, 1971, then a tragic head injury changed her life almost 50 years ago.  Margaret always brought joy to the people who cared for her over the years.  She enjoyed playing cards, listening to music, an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan and you knew never to interrupt her when watching the Price is Right or Let’s Make A Deal.  Peg was dealt lemons, but always made lemonade with what life dealt her.

Survivors include her father, James Cloos; siblings, Tom (Lois) Cloos, Steven (Colleen) Cloos, Mark (Marlene) Cloos , Patrick (Shirley) Cloos, Fr. Robert Cloos, Barbara (Kenny) Lundin, and Richard Cloos; numerous nieces and nephews; and extended relatives.

Margaret was preceded in death by her mother, Kathleen; paternal grandparents, Peter and Viola Cloos; and her maternal grandparents, George and Alverda Gonner.

A memorial fund has been established in Margaret’s memory, memorials and condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service  100 N. 6^th St. Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Margaret Cloos-Mueller Family.

The Family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Dr. Angela Kelley and Staff, and Finley Hospital for your care and concern all these years.

Margaret’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com.

Sarah A. Frees

Sarah A. Frees, age 34 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on December 9, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving friends and caretakers.  To honor Sarah’s life, a private remembrance memorial will be held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sarah’s family.

Sarah was born on April 23, 1986, in Des Moines, Iowa, a beautiful daughter to Rita Carr.  Her arrival into this world, and divine purpose were immediately obvious to all who knew and loved her.  Sometimes the Lord sends souls here to impact the world in magnificent ways, and sometimes He graciously sends us angels who are here merely to allow others to share their love and missions with and upon them.  Sarah would spend her time among us relying on others to care for her daily needs, but in return she would provide abundant blessings to all who came in contact with her.  Her quiet joy and relentless determination were undeniably contagious and the love which she would both give and take became a constant source of all that is good in this world.  We will surely miss our dear Sarah moving forward, but we also know and trust that she is now residing comfortably in her eternal estate in absolute perfection.  Thank you, Sarah, for reminding us all that this life is only a temporary state of being and that one day we can all find peace after courageously bearing our crosses here.  God Bless and God Speed Sweet Sarah and we thank you immensely for the opportunity to serve!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sarah include,

her mother,
Rita A. (Gifford) Carr, Winterset, Iowa;

her siblings,
Travis Frees, Winterset, Iowa,
and Alysia Frees, Winterset, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, Hills & Dales Caretakers, friends, and neighbors.

Sarah was preceded in death by her grandparents, William and Marcia Gifford, and Donna May Sheets and Edward A. Frees.

Sarah’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Hills & Dales for all of their care and devotion to Sarah.

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

Glenn G. Miller

Glenn G. Miller, 93, of Clinton, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 10, 2020, at his home.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating Glenn’s life will be held on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Glenn Gerald Miller was born on March 20, 1927 in Andrew, Iowa, to John and Mary (Hose) Miller. He grew up in Andrew and then served his country in the U.S. Army during both World War II and the Korean War. He married LaVonne Louise Bahnsen on February 4, 1953 in Clinton, Iowa.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, Glenn worked for over 30 years at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa as the Union Steward and as a Foreman on the Block Line. He retired in 1985.

Glenn was a member of the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75 and Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew. He loved going to the casino, mowing lawns and playing cards.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife LaVonne Miller of Clinton, IA; 8 children, Gerald (Melody) Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Brenda (David) Gombert of Maquoketa, IA, Connie Rowan of Maquoketa, IA, Richard Miller of Clinton, IA, Danny Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Gary Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Gloria (Mike) Johnson of Clinton, IA, and Peggy (Pat) Owen of Des Moines, IA; 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, son-in-law Donnie Rowan, daughter-in-law Molly Miller, 3 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Glenn G. Miller Family.

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 support or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Colleen M. (Parker) Grant

Colleen M. (Parker) Grant, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:24 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation. Due to COVID-19 concerns there will be a private family service to celebrate Colleen’s life. The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery following cremation at a later date. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is helping the family with arrangements.

Colleen was born on April 18, 1927, in Guttenberg, Iowa, daughter of Arthur and Flossie (Busch) Parker.

Colleen graduated from Guttenberg High School where she played basketball and softball. She was united in marriage to Norbert Grant, on October 7, 1948, in Guttenberg. They raised their family, and celebrated 58 wonderful years of matrimony, before sadly Norb passed away on July 31, 2007. Colleen was a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker who was thrilled to be able to also babysit her grandchildren when they were born. Colleen was definitely devoted to her family. When the grandchildren were born she and Norb never missed an opportunity to spend time with them, attending every sporting and academic event the kids were a part of. She especially enjoyed stopping at Culvers afterwards for a “victory” treat. When she did make some time for herself, Colleen liked to going out to eat and jumping in the car to take a ride to her native Guttenberg to see what was new in the big city. She was a talented seamstress who made her own clothes as well as outfits for the kids and their dolls. She was also a long time sports fan who rooted for the Hawkeyes and both the Chicago Cubs and Bulls. Colleen will no doubt be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Colleen’s memory include

her 2 sons,
Michael (Denise) Grant, Peosta, IA
and Terrence Grant, Dubuque, IA;

her beloved grandchildren,
Benjamin (Ennea) Grant, Greeley, CO,
Zachary (Jade Flansburg) Grant, Iowa City, IA
and Kara (Jesse) Lawler, Peosta, IA;

her great-grandson,
Carter Lawler;

her sister,
JoAnne “Annie” (Don) Dondelinger, Cuba City, WI;

and 2 sisters-in-law,
Jean Parker, Garnavillo, IA
and Adele Parker, Guttenberg, IA.

Colleen was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Norbert Grant; and her siblings, Helen (Paul) Barton, Willie (LaVonne) Parker, Bob (Jean) Parker, Don (Agnella) Parker, Gary Parker and Clyde Parker.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and compassionate care of Colleen.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Colleen Grant Family.

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

Harold Hilliard

Harold Hilliard, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 3, 2020, at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 12th at 10:30 AM at Grand View United Methodist Church with Pastor Tom Shinkle officiating. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens with Military Honors accorded by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Family and friends may visit with the family between 9:30 AM and the time of services at Grand View Methodist Church. The funeral will be live-streamed on Grand View United Methodist Church’s and Leonard Funeral Home’s Facebook page.

Harold was born March 25, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois, to Jeraldine (Spann) and David Hilliard Jr. He is a graduate of Hyde Park High School in Chicago. He had completed a welder’s certificate and was studying mechanical engineering before he was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War as a member of the Army Corps of Engineers. After returning to civilian life, Harold worked for Eastman Kodak, WVON, and other family-owned businesses.

Harold was passionate about fixing things, always tinkering and returning items to good working condition. Both of his parents came from farming families, he had nine aunts and uncles, numerous cousins, and he was very proud of his family’s entrepreneurship and successes. He loved his family, spending time with grandchildren, found joy in gardening, and he had a major sweet tooth for Pepsi, chocolate donuts, and ice cream. He was known for his intelligence, kindness and helpfulness.

Harold was preceded in death by his mother and father, Jereldine and David, and his sister Valerie.

He is survived by his daughter, Pauline (Brian), sister Jacqueline, brothers Clarence and Kenneth (Beverly), grandchildren Jamal, Alexandria, Madeline, and David.

A special thank you to Stonehill Communities, Unity Point Health Finley Hospital, the Dubuque Fire Department, Leonard Funeral Home and the many doctors, nurses, and staff who provided exceptional care for Harold. Condolences sent to the family care of Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory.

Sister Virginia McCaffrey, BVM (Justinian)

Sister Virginia McCaffrey, BVM (Justinian), 95, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Natural burial Rite of Committal was Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. Burial was in the Mount Carmel cemetery. Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, from 9:30-10:15 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:45 a.m.

Sister Virginia was an elementary teacher in Riverside, Iowa; Chicago; Santa Ana, Calif.; Burbank, Calif.; and Oklahoma City, where she also served as principal. She was director of religious education and parish office manager in Huntington Park, Calif.; parish visitor in Santa Ana, Calif.; and school office staff member and assistant librarian in Pasadena, Calif.

She was born on Feb. 11, 1925, in Seneca, Kans., to Ralph and Mary (Baker) McCaffrey. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1942, from St. Boniface Parish, Fort Smith, Ark. She professed first vows on March 19, 1945, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1950.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Keith.

She is survived by five nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 78 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.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2605 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is in charge of arrangements.