Obituaries Archive
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Larry Bullock
Following his second battle with cancer, Larry “Joe” Bullock, 78, of Maquoketa, IA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at his home with his family by his side. His abiding faith and courage was a lesson for all of us.
Joe was born on March 11, 1946, in Maquoketa. He was the eighth of ten children born to Dwight and Pauline (Hardin) Bullock. He grew up in a small house on Matteson Street, in a neighborhood full of children, many of them becoming his lifelong friends.
Joe attended First Ward and Briggs elementary schools. He was a proud member of the Maquoketa High School class of 1964, where he held leadership roles, excelled in sports, and was named Homecoming King. He often reminisced that growing up in the 50’s and 60’s shaped his life.
Following the example set by his parents, Joe’s unwavering work ethic was established at a very young age. He began driving truck in High School, and following graduation, he joined his dad and brothers in the family trucking business, which began humbly in 1938 with one truck. The business became known as Bullocks Inc. after incorporating in 1970. It eventually expanded into grain marketing and storage. He worked tirelessly to help grow the business over his lifetime. “Retirement” was never in his vocabulary.
On December 17, 1965, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda Riley, at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. The Reverend Harold C. Kumpf officiated the ceremony. Together, they created a life full of cherished memories. They were blessed with two children, Joseph Michael and Kristine Kathryn. They built a house on a small acreage north of Maquoketa, where they have resided for over fifty years.
Their shared love of antiques allowed for many years of collecting as a common goal. But Joe’s passion was classic and antique cars, and he possessed several over his lifetime. However, one of his proudest purchases was his first new automobile at the age of nineteen – a ’65 Pontiac Bonneville, replacing his trusty old ’51 Plymouth.
For many years, Joe was an avid golfer, once scoring the elusive hole-in-one. Many competitive rounds were played with his golfing companions. However, his time on the course faded following a major wrist injury and surgeries. And, very soon, grandchildren came along and took precedence over the game.
He devoted the rest of his life to making those grandchildren the center of his attention. Life shined brighter when he gained the title of “Papa”, and more recently, “Great Papa”. He was a constant source of encouragement in their achievements. He took much pride and joy in attending their many activities and events, and cherished every opportunity to spend time with each of them.
Visits to Papa and Grammy’s house were always made extra special. Joe transformed the machine shed into a temporary gymnasium that provided countless hours of fun and friendly “cousin competition”. He loved being the “chauffeur” during their visits, with a grandchild or two on his lap in the tractor; or perched behind him on a four-wheeler; or being pulled in a wagon or on a sled, all providing hours of fun and laughter. Katie, Mason, Sam, Adam and Lexi will miss him dearly; his presence, his generosity, his love and gentle guidance. Precious memories of their beloved Papa will remain in their hearts forever, and his legacy will live on through each of them.
Joe was a man of faith and an active member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa where, over the years, he served on numerous committees, as well as two different terms as president of the congregation. He was recently named Honorary Co-Chair of the congregation’s current 100th Anniversary Committee. His time and commitment became limited due to his declining health.
For years he voluntarily drove for the Maquoketa Community Cupboard, and occasionally helped with their snow removal. Before his cancer diagnosis, he was a long-time blood donor. He enjoyed many years of bellringing for the Salvation Army during the holidays.
Joe earned the respect and gratitude of many. His knowledge of the grain business was well known, and his marketing advice was often requested. He and Linda acquired full ownership of Bullocks Inc. in 2002. The fleet and transportation portion of the business was expanded. In 2015, they received the annual Friends of Agriculture Agri-Business Award, presented by the Maquoketa Chamber of Commerce and the Maquoketa Rotary Club. Together, they continued to grow the company, which now includes their son, proudly paving the way for future generations to carry on its respected place in the Ag Community.
Joe will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of nearly 59 years, Linda; His children, Joseph (Jennifer) Bullock of Bettendorf, IA, Kristine (A.J.) Loss of Bettendorf, IA, His five grandchildren; Katie (Logan Boeh) Bullock, Adam (MacKenzie Clark) Bullock, Mason (Emma Pease) Loss, Sam (Maddie Baltazor) Loss, and Lexi Loss; one great granddaughter, June Loss; His siblings; Bonnie Maxey of Chesterfield, MO, Bill (Darlene Gleason) Bullock of Bellevue, IA, Connie (Bill) Caven of Highlands Ranch, CO, Jerry (Dot) Bullock of Maquoketa, IA , Linda Lahann of Long Grove, IA, Nancy Longwell of Arvada, CO, Barb (Steve) Wright of Davenport, IA, and Mary Lundeen of Highlands Ranch, CO; His in-laws John Stein of Hartland, MI, Janet Rollinger of Maquoketa, IA, Sheryle Riley of Dubuque, IA, Phyllis Riley of Bloomington, IN, Sharon Bullock of Des Moines, IA and Dianna and Eugene Block of Maquoketa, IA, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dwight and Pauline Bullock, sister Judy Stein, brothers-in-law Don Maxey, Gary Lundeen, Barry Lahann, Warren Longwell, Lawrence Riley, Herbert Riley and Joseph Rollinger; two nieces, Lori Riley and Kelly Block-Davidson.
A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, December 7, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, December 6, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Burial will be at East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.
The family would like to extend gratitude to the medical team at the MercyOne Cancer Center and the MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque, as well as to Hospice of Jackson County for the amazing care and concern shown to Joe.
Memorials may be made to the First Lutheran Church of Maquoketa, Hospice of Jackson County, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.
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William J. Wentworth
William Jacob Wentworth was born on May 8, 1936, to Blair and Edna (Beck) Wentworth on the family farm, in a house that was built by his great-great-grandfather. He was named after his two grandfathers.
Starting when he was a very young boy, he would wander the countryside as much as possible, exploring it in all its facets. Even though he listed his religion as Lutheran, it was in nature where he found true and everlasting spiritualism. All of his life, he worshiped at the altar of Mother Nature.
Wm. had a quick, inquiring mind. At a very early age his paternal grandmother, who had been a teacher, instilled in him the love of books and learning, which continued the rest of his life. He would very often be seen haunting the public libraries and Goodwill store, enjoying the books and purchasing what he was interested in. During his life, he amassed an enormous collection of books and other reading materials. Literally enough to fill an entire grain bin and more.
He attended Fairfield #1 rural school, as did his parents, and was not allowed to go out for his 1st school recess due to getting in an argument with a much older girl, before school began that day. He always said that he was done with school right then and there. He mentioned how unfair he thought that was often, up to 5 days before his death. Even so, he always deeply cared about his country school friends, and was excited to see them the rest of his life. It is very fortunate that he got to re-connect with so many of them the last months of his life.
After graduating from the rural school, he attended Maquoketa High School, where he met two people who would become very significant in his life. Haven Schmidt became his best friend almost immediately, and, as he often said, if it wasn’t for Haven introducing him to football, he would have dropped out of school as soon as he could. Also, it was with Haven that he met his future wife, at school. He said it was, “Love at first sight.”
After graduating from Maquoketa High School in 1953 he worked on the farm and hired out to neighboring farmers when they needed help. On October 11, 1959, he married Joan Marsha Stoll, his high school sweetheart, at the old Methodist church in Maquoketa. They are said to be the last couple to get married there before it closed. They had three children together, LuAnn, Don and Carolyn. Joan died on July 24, 2024. Bill had a fatal stroke on the 4-month anniversary of her death and died on November 26, 2024, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center.
During the early to mid-1960s, he worked for the State of Iowa DNR. His job mainly was to haul fish (usually trout) and stock them around the state. One time he was assigned to transport beds to the Anamosa Penitentiary. After leaving the DNR, he worked on the family farm, making numerous improvements. In 1987 he sold his herd of cattle, and about 10 years later he stopped raising hogs. Shortly after he began renting out the land, although he made it clear that he was not retired. To his mind, he never retired.
William is survived by his children, LuAnn (Jim) Goeke of Maquoketa; Don (Carol) of rural Preston, and Carolyn Wehr, of Olathe, Kansas, 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, as well a brother-in-law, Raymond “Rusty” Hayes of Maquoketa, and a 1st cousin he grew up with, Jack Marlowe, of Maquoketa. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joan, his parents, 2 sisters, 1 brother.
Memorials can be made to the family.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.
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Victoria Jaster
Victoria “Vickie” Dee (Jenkins) Jaster, 78, of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024 following a long illness. Private Burial Services will be at Clark Family Cemetery on Big Spring Road in rural Clayton County (Elkader, Iowa).
Local arrangements are pending at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.
Vickie was born October 1, 1946 in Nebraska, the daughter of Glenn and Norma (Swihart) Jenkins. She married Lawrence Milo Jaster on April 7, 1965 in Papillion, Nebraska, he passed away on July 3, 2022. Lawrence’s military services took Vickie and their family all around the world, but they eventually settled back to Bellevue. She worked as an Executive Assistant for Commerce Bank for many years. Vickie enjoyed playing the Tenor Sax and traveling. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include her children, Eric (Alisha) Jaster, Darren Jaster, and Litza Ritter; grandchildren, Garrett Jaster and Maverick Ritter; sisters and brothers in-law, James (Donna) Jaster, and Beverly (Anthony) Habeger.
Vickie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Lawrence Milo Jaster; siblings, Russell (Dolores) Jenkins, Richard (Margaret) Jenkins, and Brenda (Hank) Jenkins Maass.
Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Victoria Jaster Family at 100 N. 6th Street Bellevue, IA 52031.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com
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Gerard P. Connolly
Gerard “Jerry” P. Connolly, 67, of Farley, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on November 29, 2024, at his home.
The gathering for Jerry will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m. The gathering will also be held after 9 a.m. on Thursday.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
Jerry was born on February 1, 1957, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Paul and Mary “Toni” (Driscoll) Connolly. He was a 1975 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa. He went on to receive his degree in Nursing from Northeast Iowa Community College. He began his nursing career as a Nurse for Mercy in Dubuque and later at the Iowa Department of Corrections. In 2013 he retired from the Anamosa State Penitentiary, as the Nursing Service Director.
He was united in marriage to Judy Spoden on November 11, 1978, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. Jerry was very proud of his Irish Heritage and had the opportunity to travel to Ireland. He enjoyed fishing with his family, playing guitar, a good cup of coffee, and cruising the streets of Farley.
He was an avid Hawkeyes, Steelers and Yankees fan.
He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.
Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory are his wife, Judy Connolly of Farley, IA; one daughter, Amber Connolly; a daughter-in-law, Lori McDermott; two grandchildren, Aidan and Addison all of Cedar Rapids, IA; six sibling, Janann (Gerald) Weber of Dyersville, IA, Diann (Rodney) Mozena of Dubuque, IA, Mary Eileen (Mark) Smith of Cedar Rapids, IA, Lyle (Bonnie) Connolly of Davenport, and Keith (Kris) Connolly of Colorado; In-laws, Joan (Wayne) Marxen of Epworth, IA, James Spoden of Cedar Rapids, IA, Joseph (Karen) Spoden of Robins, IA, and Jerry (Margie) Spoden of Marion, IA.
He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard Connolly on June 12, 1996; his father and mother-in-law, John E. “Jack” and Jane E. (Losey) Spoden.
An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com
The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, the Farley Volunteer Ambulance personnel.
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Janice M. Wagner
Janice M. Wagner, 85, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Ellen Kennedy Living Center, Dyersville, Iowa.
Visitation will be held from 4 – 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross, Iowa. Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church with burial immediately following in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.
Janice was born on April 24, 1939 in Holy Cross, IA, daughter of Alphonse and Armella (Schieltz) Clemen. She married Willis Wagner on November 19, 1960 in Holy Cross, Iowa. Together they lived in Holy Cross for 55 years, where they raised their children. While raising her own children, she also had a daycare in her home because taking care of children was her passion.
Some of her joys in life were taking care of her garden, canning, growing beautiful flowers, quilting, and crafts. Together with her husband Willie, they loved to go to dances, playing cards with family and friends, and they were active members of the Guttenberg car club “River Park Cruisers.” Janice and Willie loved taking their convertible out to visit family and going for ice cream.
Survivors include her children: Sharon (Dan) Faber of Cascade, Thomas (Tammy) Wagner of Cedar Rapids, Linda (Gary) Ellerbach of Ely, Lisa (Clyde) Hefel of North Buena Vista, Laurie (Dave) Baliff of Potosi, WI and Deb (Greg) McMahon of East Dubuque, IL; grandchildren: Josh, Zach and Matt Faber, Danielle and Olivia Wagner, Dalton (Nikki) and Skylar (Miranda) Ellerbach, Alyssa Hefel, Connor and Chase McMahon, Jenna and Luke Baliff; great grandchildren: Harper and Hayden Ellerbach; siblings: Loras Clemen of Dubuque, Cathy (Don) Keppler of Manchester, and Dale (Carol) Clemen of Dubuque; in-laws: Patricia Clemen of Holy Cross, Linda Clemen of Colesburg, Rosemary (Roland) Hoeger of St. Olaf, Kay (Earl) Kluesner of Luxemburg and John (Donna) Wagner of Luxemburg.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Willis in 2023; siblings: Vernon Clemen, Germaine (Marvin) Gaul, Jerome Clemen and Francis Clemen, and a sister-in-law, Darlene Clemen.
The family would like to thank the staff of Ellen Kennedy Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Don and Dianne Kramer for taking incredible care of Janice.
Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family. Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.
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David R. Hantelman
David R. Hantelman, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque on November 26, 2024.
To honor David’s life, friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday December 4, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service at 3:45 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday December 5, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. The burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.
David was born on July 8, 1957, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Frederick William Hantelman and Mary Jane Eckstein. David was a graduate of Wahlert Catholic High School and New Horizons Computer Learning Center in Hiawatha, Iowa. He was a Certified I.T. professional working on desktop applications. David also worked for Thermo-Fisher Scientific. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his high school friends. He was especially fond of his backyard flock of wild turkeys that he would feed under his deck. David often spent holidays with his three nieces Carisa Nardelli, Sara White and Heather Hantelman.
David is survived by his brother Stephen John (Rosemary) Hantelman of Littleton, Colorada, and nieces Carisa Nardelli, Sara White, Heather Hantelman, Kathryn Einbu, Anne Hasten, and Grace Hasten.
He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Mary Jane, and siblings Jay Frederick Hantelman and Carol Ann Hantelman.
The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, cards, flowers, text messages, and visits.
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Steve T. Luster
Steve Talbert Luster, 64, of Peosta, died Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Harmony Dubuque.
There will be no services. Military honors will be held at a later date.
Steve was born March 1, 1960, in Norfolk, VA, the son of James Gaddis and Lorene Morgan Davenport Luster.
He was a graduate of Luverne High School in Luverne, AL.
He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving as an airplane mechanic during his time in the military. After his discharge, Steve worked as a semi-truck driver. When we was not working he loved to hunt, and fish.
Survivors include one daughter, Kelly (Jason Kringle) Luster of Peosta, IA and two grandsons, Aidan Thompson of Peosta, and Brandon Kringle of Dubuque.
He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Craig.
Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.
Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Steve’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.
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Russell E. Kieffer
Russell E. “Russ” Kieffer, 77, of Galena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Unity Pointe Health Center in Dubuque, IA, surrounded by his loving family. A funeral mass will be held at noon on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may gather at 11:30 AM until the time of the mass. Friends can also call from 4 to 7 PM on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where the parish rosary will begin at 3:30 PM. Following the mass, military honors will be presented by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Burial will take place at a later date, and cremation rites have been accorded.
Russ was born on July 26, 1947, in Hazel Green, WI, to Nicholas and Helen (Splinter) Kieffer. He graduated from Galena High School in the Class of 1965. During the Vietnam War, Russ enlisted in the United States Army on September 12, 1966, and was honorably discharged as a sergeant on September 11, 1969. He served our country, following in the footsteps of his father, Nicholas, as did his son Jacob and grandson Zachary. Russ married his wife of fifty-five years, Judith Meyer, on November 27, 1969, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena. He worked for many years as a cable installer with Mediacom Cable. After retirement, he drove vehicles for the Jo Daviess County Transit system. Russ enjoyed hunting and loved fishing with his wife, children, and grandchildren. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed fantasy football and cheered for the Chicago Cubs and the Minnesota Vikings. Most importantly, he loved to watch his grandchildren in all their extracurricular activities. Russ loved playing games with his family, including poker, pool, and quarters. Known for his jokes and culinary skills, he was a wonderful host and ensured guests never left his home hungry. He also enjoyed taking daily car rides with his wife to view and count the local deer and wildlife.
Russ is survived by his wife, Judith; six children; and sixteen grandchildren: Matthew Kieffer of Dubuque and his children Lucas, Eric, and Emily; Nathan (Cortney) Kieffer of Dubuque and their children Jackson and Colin; Justin (Jennifer) Kieffer of East Dubuque, IL, and their children Joshua, William, and Andrew; Jacob Kieffer of Galena and his children Zachary (deceased) and Nicholas; Ben (Lindsay) Kieffer of Pace, FL, and their children Madeline and Isabelle; and Amanda (Tim) DuHack of Galena and their children Samantha, Grace, Sebastian, and Tucker. He is also survived by two sisters, Carol Spurr of Rochester, MN, and Madonna Hilliard of Pocatello, ID; two brothers, Jerry Kieffer of Galena and Robert Kieffer of Tupelo, MS; two sisters-in-law, Barbara Meyer and Constance Meyer and two brothers-in-law John (Mary) Meyer and Richard Baumgartner; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, his mother and father-in-law, Elwyn and Rosemary Meyer, two brothers, James and Nicholas Kieffer, and two sisters, Barbara and Mary Kieffer.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the doctors and staff at Midwest Medical Center in Galena, Unity Pointe Health Center in Dubuque, and Monroe Clinic in Monroe, WI. Your care and kindness will never be forgotten.
Donations may be made to the American Red Cross or American Cancer Society in memory of Russ.
Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com
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Herbert J. Bisping
Herbert J. Bisping, 83, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 2921 Central Ave, Dubuque, Iowa. Family will greet friends from 9:30 am – 11:00 am, prior to Mass at the church. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Herbert was born March 22, 1941, the son of Herbert F. “Dinah” Bisping and Mary J. “Betty” (Kemp) Grutz. Herbert married Rita Frey on May 18, 1963. He owned and operated Bisping Realty in Dubuque for nearly 50 years, where he made many friends and touched so many lives. Herbert was a kind man with strong integrity, deeply loved his family, had an excellent sense of humor, and would greet everyone with a warm smile. He enjoyed spending time with family, playing bridge and euchre, playing the guitar and harmonica, and playing sports in his younger years.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Rita; children, Michael (Kim Havey) Bisping, Ann (Jim) Wachtel, Robert (Jennifer Wardle) Bisping, and Debra Bisping; 13 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; siblings, Norman Bisping, Ronald Bisping, Leo Bisping, Bruce Bisping, Lynn (Roger) Robinson, Donna (William) Doctor, Susan (Pat) Moore, George E. Herman, Janis Groh, and Betty (Bob Rapp) Frick.
Herbert was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert F. “Dinah” Bisping (Isabelle Bisping) and Mary J. “Betty” Grutz; sister, Georgia (Tom) Glab; grandson, Colten Bisping; brother-in-law, Robert “Bud” Groh; sister-in-law, Lori Bisping.
In lieu of flowers, a Herbert J. Bisping memorial fund has been established in his memory.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com
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Laura M. Schemmel
The loving, generous, and passionate life of Laura M. Schemmel, 77, of Dubuque, came to an end with her passing on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family.
Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm Sunday, December 1, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Laura will be 10:30 am Monday, December 2, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary in Dubuque.
Laura was born April 12, 1947, in Dyersville, IA, the daughter of Alfred and Madonna Juran Roling. On November 27, 1965, she married Anthony J. Schemmel at St. Joseph’s Parish in Rickardsville
Laura was retired from Jeld-Wen and Medical Associates Clinic.
She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She was a loving daughter, a loyal friend, and an amazing wife and grandmother. Laura enjoyed playing dominoes and caring for her beautiful flower garden. She was always deeply interested in the lives and concerns of her children and grandchildren. Above all, Laura cherished spending time with her family in the warmth of her home. Her greatest legacy lives on in her three children, six grandchildren and three great grandchildren, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.
Survivors include her husband, Tony; one son, Michael (Julie) Schemmel of Epworth, IA; two daughters, Jennifer (Brian) Schultz and Robin Schemmel, both of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Alec (Josie) Schemmel, Rachel (Nixon) Schemmel, Matthew (Haley) Schemmel, Megan Schultz, Carter (Faith) Schultz, and Austin (Mina) Schemmel; three great-grandchildren, Adelyn, Madden, and Tage; two brothers, Tom (Linda) Roling of Durango, IA, and Dennis (Debbie) Roling of Rickardsville, IA; one sister, Diane (Joe) Schemmel of Dubuque; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Steve Kress of Sherrill, IA, Elsie Payton of Tipton, IA, Donald (Diane) Schemmel of Sherrill, IA, Marge Schemmel of Durango, IA, Coralee (Fred) Schaumburg of Durango, IA, Chuck (Sharon) Schemmel of Dubuque, Joyce (Don) Tigges of Dubuque, and Bob (Cindy) Schemmel of Dubuque and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Sharon Kress, her father- and mother-in-law, Anthony and Ida Schemmel, and her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Wayne and Millie Schemmel, Bob and Lois Gruel, Jim Payton, Jim Schemmel, Pete and Del Rose O’Meara, and Rick (Carol) Schemmel.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Kristina, Amy, and Jamie, for the compassionate care and support you provided to Laura.
Until we meet again, thank you, Mom, for leading by example. May the loving arms of the Lord hold you safely and securely as we seek healing for our broken hearts.
A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Laura’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.
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Niculae Schimbeski
Niculae Schimbeski, 90, of Dubuque, died on Monday, November 25, 2024, at his home in Dubuque.
Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.
Niculae was born on September 17, 1934, in Sulina, Romania, the son of Gheorghe and Sevastia (Manolatos) Schimbeski. On December 19, 1955, he married Epistimia Braileanu in Sulina, Romania.
Niculae was a 1952 graduate of Military Academy in Romania, and 1956 graduate of Military Academy in Bucharest, Romania. He served in the Romanian Air Force for 35 years as an Aircraft Mechanical Engineer, retiring in 1989 with the rank of Colonel.
Niculae was a member of St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Dubuque. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing with cats and dogs, and photography.
Survivors include his wife, Epistimia Schimbeski of Dubuque; two daughters, Camelia Rehus and Luiza Lidia (Nicolae) ILIE both of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Michael C. Rehus, Dan Adrian ILIE, Gabriel Matthew ILIE; and two great-grandchildren, Emmy Rose Rehus and Danny Matthew Rehus.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Ion, one sister, Nina, and one son-law, Adalbert Rehus.
Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Niculae’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.
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Frances A. Wessels
Frances A. Wessels, 94, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.
Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue Wednesday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa with burial in Holy Cross Cemetery. Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.
Frances was born July 20, 1930, daughter of George and Mayme (Ricken) Menke. She married Robert W. Wessels on September 18, 1951 in Dyersville, Iowa. Together they farmed for 25 years. Frances, devoted countless hours of love and guidance to her family and enjoyed giving of herself by volunteering for her community in countless ways.
Survivors include her children: Michael (Joyce) Wessels of Rickardsville, IA, Beverly (John) Lucas of Sherrill, IA, Debra (Charles) Klein of Farmingdale, NY, Thomas (Terry) Wessels of Marquette, MI, Jeffrey (Amy) Wessels of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, and Amy (Tim) Koehn of Holy Cross, IA, and a son-in-law, John Oberbroeckling of East Dubuque, IL; 18 grandchildren: Jenny (Justin), Lynn (Chad), Jay (Kathy), Brian (Amanda), Wendy (Kyle), Anne (Matt), Amber (Nate), Steve (Katie), Jonathan, Jeremy (Sharon), Alison (Aaron), Johanna (John), Emily (Kevin), Dan (Ashley), Olivia, Heather (Nick), Megan (Max) and Sam (Lillian); 37 great grandchildren; siblings: Wilma Lake; in-laws: Gladys Wessels and Cheri Wessels all of Dyersville.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob in 2008, parents, parents-in-laws, Edward and Dorothy Wessels, a daughter, Shirley Oberbroeckling, grandchildren: Mary Frances and Kelly Marie (both in infancy), siblings: George (Grace) Menke; in-laws: James Lake, Ernest Wessels, Ida Rose (Lavern) Sabers, Francis “Hank” Wessels and Richard “Breeze” Wessels.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation for the staff at Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Ellen Kennedy Center for taking incredible care of their mother.
Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family. Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.
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Alvina M. Murphy
Alvina M. Murphy, 93, of Farley, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.
Visitation for Alvina will be held from 2 to 6 p.m., on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m., and a CDA Rosary at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, December 2, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with the Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Burial will be held in the St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.
Alvina was born February 20, 1931, in Lore, Iowa, daughter of Clement and Matilda (Behnke) Steil. On May 10, 1952, she was united in marriage to Virgil Murphy at St. Philomena’s Catholic Church in Asbury, Iowa. He preceded her in death on January 9, 2018.
The couple farmed south of Farley for several years. Alvina was a devoted farm wife, mother, and grandmother who was constantly working on the farm, feeding the calves, milking the cows, and gardening. She was very frugal and canned everything she possibly could. She was a wonderful baker and cook, baking the most wonderful bread and pies. Alvina enjoyed many forms of needle point. The couple enjoyed hosting a lot of family picnics at the farm.
She was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa. Alvina was also a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Presentation Court #1460
She is survived by four children, Debra Jarding of Dubuque, IA, Kathryn (Jon) Berkley of Dubuque, James Murphy of Farley, and Daniel (Christine) Murphy of Farley; 11 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; her siblings and their spouses, James (Jean) Steil of Asbury, LaVern (Elaine) Steil of Dubuque, Jude Steil of Bettendorf; and sister-in-law, Betty Murphy of Dubuque.
She is also preceded in death by her parents; one son-in-law, Paul Jarding; two grandsons, Zachary Pust and James C. Murphy; her siblings and their spouses, Gerald (Gloria) Steil, Leonard Steil, Norman (Mary Ann) Steil, Mary Ann (Donald) Derouin, Evelyn (Albert) Beecher, Eleanor (Donald) Lombardi; in-laws, Eileen (Duane) Bruening; and Louis Murphy.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com
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Jeanette K. Russell
Jeanette “Jen” Katherine Russell, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday December 1, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a wake service beginning at 4:45 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday December 2, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Maquoketa, Iowa.
Jeanette was born on May 29, 1934, in St. Donatus, Iowa, daughter of Vincent and Lucille (Lynch) Kingsley. She was united in marriage to her husband, Robert E. Russell, on October 29, 1955, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in La Motte, Iowa. Jen worked as a bookkeeper at Interstate Finance, was a restaurant owner, as well as a stay-at-home mom. She was an active member of the St. Joseph the Worker Parish.
Jeanette is survived by her children Paul (Jan) Russell, Barbara Frandsen, Brenda (Harold) Caves, Mark (Pam) Russell, Michael (Tina) Russell, Tom Russell, Roger (Peggy) Russell, Bonnie (Jim) Beardsworth, and Kathy (Bob) Torrey. Three generations of grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bob Russell, son Dale Russell, her parents, and family members Alecia and Shots Konrardy, Joe (Merl) and Anna Mae Kingsley, Jerry and Rosie Kingsley, Thelma and Arnie Herrig, Chuck Kingsley, Dena and Tom Schliesman, and four nephews Mike Kingsley, Jude Herrig, Dan Herrig, and Wayne Konrardy.
Memorials may be given in Jeanette’s memory to St. Jude Hospital and St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque-especially Amanda, Peggy, and Hilary, as well as Dr. Christopher Stille and Dr. Rahm, and all of the wonderful caregivers who helped take care of Jen.
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Susan Funke
Susan (Sinn) Funke, 62, of Bellevue, Iowa, passed away peacefully in the presence of her devoted husband, Kevin Funke, on November 25, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center. She was born on June 16, 1962 to M. George and Delta (Rankin) Sinn.
Susan was raised on a family farm in Boyton Center, Illinois. She graduated from Bradley with a double major in biology and psychology and a masters degree in psychology. She was a counselor, devoted wife, loving mother, loyal friend, and enthusiastic grandma.
There was music wherever Susan went, from singing nursery rhymes to her children, to rocking out to Meatloaf, to singing the perfect snippet of song for any conversation. She brought sparkle, wit, and laughter to every gathering. She took immense joy in her family and making every family event one to remember.
She is survived by her loving husband, Kevin Funke, 62, as well as her children Katherine, Scott (Amy), and Claire (Ashwin), as well as her granddaughter, Emma.
The visitation for Susan will take place at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL on Friday, November 29th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with a memorial service at Saint Luke’s UMC in Dubuque on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at a later date in the East Dubuque Cemetery.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©
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