Obituaries Archive

Donald A. Frank

Donald A. Frank, 80, of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque surrounded by his family. Visitation will be 11:00am – 2:00pm, Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Graveside service with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 following the visitation at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Don was born August 30, 1944, the son of Aloysius “Pete” and Mildred (Kueter) Frank. He graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1962. Don then served his country in the US Navy. He married Nancy Mae Baldwin on November 4, 1967. Don worked at John Deere in Dubuque until retiring in 2004. He enjoyed being surrounded by his entire family for any occasion. He loved and adored his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren more than anything. He also enjoyed bowling, casual strolls and Friday night dates with the love of his life, Nancy. Don was an avid fisherman and golfer. Don was a member of the Bellevue Golf Club and enjoyed golfing with his wife, kids and best cronies. He also coached youth baseball and softball and loved to participate in fastpitch himself. His sense of humor was one of his best qualities. He was a member of the Bellevue American Legion Post #273 and served on the Legion Honor Guard for many years. He loved being in the company of his beloved dog, Sandy, who preceded him in death. He will be missed by all who truly knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy; children, Marty (Jane) Frank, Angie (Steve) Squire, and Tony Frank; grandchildren, Warren Frank, Sara (Carter) Meyer, Sloan (Alec) Bowling, Cameron Squire, Rochelle (Shawn) Thomas; great-grandchildren, Oliver, Liam, Jace, and one due this May; a brother, Wayne Frank; a sister in-law, Julaine Frank; and a brother in-law, Tom Mottet. Also surviving to honor his memory, his bonus family, that he loved as his own, Alycia Heneke-Benischek and her husband Steve along with their children Hadley, Brinley, Kennedy and Kingston.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Louann Mottet; a brother, Richard Frank; and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

The Frank family would also like to extend a special thank you to the Bellevue Ambulance Service, Finley Hospital in Dubuque, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics CVICU and Heart and Vascular Center. A special thank you to Kevin and Karla Meier, Jack and Sally Grutz and Russ and Diane Kettmann.

“And the beat goes on”

Condolences and cards may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home ℅ onald Frank at 100 N. 6th Street, Bellevue, Iowa 52031. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed to local organizations by the family.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Sarah I. Easterly

Sarah I. Easterly, 71, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa.

Sarah Irene Starks was born on February 18, 1953 in Monticello, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Kathleen (Conter) Starks. Her early years were spent in Monticello, where she also received her education. Sarah’s heart found its match in Jerrold “Jerry” Easterly, and the two were wed on September 6, 1969, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello. Their loving partnership was blessed with six wonderful children.

Sarah’s life was a testament to her dedication to her family. As a homemaker, she was the cornerstone of the Easterly household, ensuring that her family was cared for with unwavering commitment and love. Her presence made their home in Maquoketa, Iowa, a sanctuary of warmth and happiness.

Sarah’s zest for life was evident in her passions. She was an avid shopper, finding joy in the thrill of discovering treasures at secondhand stores and on QVC. Her collection of items was more than a hobby; it was a way of sharing her love, as she often gifted these finds to her children. Sarah’s enthusiasm for shopping was matched by her love for western television shows, which she enjoyed in her leisure time.

Above all, Sarah’s greatest joy was found in the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The time she spent with them was precious, filled with laughter, stories, and the creation of lasting memories. Her unwavering support and unconditional love shaped their lives and will continue to guide them.

Those left to honor her memory include her devoted husband, Jerry Easterly of Maquoketa, IA; her children, Theresa (Russell) Williamson of Baldwin, IA, Jeremy (Jane) Easterly of Maquoketa, IA, Rhonda (Lynn) Huebbe of Maquoketa, IA, Lisa Neofotist of Monticello, IA, and Joshua (Heather) Easterly of Forsyth, MO. Sarah’s legacy also lives on through her 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is survived by her loving siblings, Mike (Connie) Starks of Monticello, IA, Kenny Starks of Cedar Rapids, IA, Mary (Mark) Lawrence of Marion, IA, Margaret Nelson of Anamosa, IA, and Carol Starks of Monticello, IA. Sarah was preceded in death by her parents, her son Jonathan, and her siblings William, Rick, Bob, Janet, Joyce, and Sandy.

A private family service and burial will be held at a later date at Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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

Phyllis A. Rockwell

Phyllis Ann Rockwell, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, February 6, 2025, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

Phyllis Ann Snyder was born on August 2, 1935, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Philip Wesley and Camilla Ruth (Stowers) Snyder.  She was a 1954 graduate of Onslow High School.  Her passion for education led her to UNI Teacher’s College in Cedar Falls, Iowa, where she earned her Teacher’s Associate degree. On February 14, 1958, she married the love of her life, Gerald Leroy Rockwell, at the Presbyterian Church in Onslow. Their union was blessed with over six decades of love and companionship until Gerald’s passing on January 6, 2019.

Phyllis dedicated her early career to teaching elementary students, shaping young minds with patience and care for six years. She then served the community as a dispatcher at the Maquoketa Police Department for five years. Phyllis’s commitment to others continued as she greeted and assisted countless individuals during her 23 years as a receptionist at Medical Associates in Maquoketa, from which she retired.

Her involvement in the community was extensive and heartfelt. Phyllis was a devout member of the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa. She was also an active member of the Maquoketa American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Town and Country Quilters.

Traveling with Gerald brought Phyllis great joy, as they explored new places and created lasting memories together. However, it was her family that truly captured her heart. Those left to honor her memory include her three children, Loren (Patty) Rockwell, LeAnn (John) Widel, and Stacey (Darcie) Rockwell, all of Maquoketa, IA; seven grandchildren, Abby Widel, Lexi Widel, Blake Rockwell, Aubrey (Caleb) Davison, Evan Rockwell, Jordan (Meghan) Rockwell, and Logan (Kiley) Rockwell; 1 great-grandchild, Campbell Rockwell; three step-grandchildren, Kelly Taylor, Trish (Hickory) Schnaithmann, and Jill Clark; and several grand fur babies that she adored.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gerald, and brothers Marvin, Robert and Stewart Snyder.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the United Church of Christ or Hospice of Jackson County.

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

David J. Parker

David John Parker, 66, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on February 4, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday February 15, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery, next to his mom and dad.

David was born on April 5, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Daniel Young and Mary Lucille (Malone) Parker. David had a heart of gold—kind, generous, and always willing to give to others. Nothing made him happier than bringing joy through a thoughtful gift. His love for music was undeniable, especially his admiration for Elvis Presley. The moment a song played, you could count on him tapping his toes to the rhythm. He also found joy in playing cards, games, and bingo, always ready for a little friendly competition. Though he never had the chance to ride, David was a devoted Harley fan, drawn to the spirit of the open road. We take comfort in knowing that in Heaven, he’s finally riding his Harley, surrounded by loved ones, and enjoying every moment.

David is survived by his sisters Rose (Steve) Husemann and Jane (Ron) Francois, his niece and caregiver Kristie (Travis) Pfiffner, his in-laws Donna Parker and LR Gnade, and several other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Daniel and Mary, his brothers Robert “Bob” Parker and William “Billy” Parker, sisters Elizabeth Parker, Sally Perry, Theresa Adams, Joan Streets, Aggie Gnade, and his nephews James “Jim” Parker, Jacob Adams, and Cory Parker.

The family would like to thank David’s care team at Hillcrest RCF and also to Imagine the Possibilities for the years of great care they provided. Both were compassionate in taking good care of him.

Jay A. Edelnant

Jay Alan Edelnant, Ph.D., 76, of Cedar Falls died Saturday, February 1, 2025. He was buried at Casper Creek Natural Cemetery outside of Galena, IL.

Despite living nearly all his adult life in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Jay was a city guy.  Born March 5, 1948 to Nathan and Eleanore (Fishman) Edelnant and reared in Chicago and Skokie, IL, he craved Jewish deli food and rooted for the Chicago Cubs his whole life.  His wardrobe reflected his loyalty to Chicago teams, especially his joy when the Cubs won the 2016 World Series. At 18, Jay ventured to Jacksonville, IL to earn his B.A. at MacMurray College, but returned to Chicagoland to complete his M.A. and Ph.D. at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.  His first (and last) teaching job brought him to the University of Northern Iowa, where, for 47 years before his 2018 retirement as an emeritus Professor of Theatre, he impacted countless lives by teaching and directing plays and musicals. Those lucky enough to have been his students and colleagues describe him as a brilliant educator, an inspiring, supportive, and influential professor and mentor who opened doors for them.  His simple, yet effective directives, (“Read the damn play!”) shaped others’ careers. More than one said they never worked harder than in Jay’s classes and productions. He was renowned for his wit and humor.  He was committed to creatively crafting theatrical experiences to enable actors and audiences to see connections between playwrights’ messages and their own daily experiences.  As a theatre critic he lauded quality and provided constructive suggestions when productions needed work.  His abilities were recognized nationally through his work for the Kennedy Center’s American College Theatre Festival (ACTF). He was honored to have served as the National Chair, and he treasured his connections with other theatre professionals across the US, in the UK, Poland, and Uzbekistan.  He has earned a standing ovation.

Jay and his wife of 51 years Vicki were avid travelers, visiting all 50 states, several Canadian provinces, and dozens of countries on four continents.

At home, Jay was a voracious reader, an insightful film buff, a graduate of the New Orleans School of Cooking, and adventurous cook.  When his daughter was small, she would check to see whether Dad was cooking before inviting a friend to share a meal as Jay was known to experiment with many herbs and spices, and sometimes the results were too bold for young palates. 

Jay was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and cousin to his surviving family: wife Vicki (Van Vark) Edelnant, son Noah S. Edelnant, of Grimes, IA, daughter Julia E. (Nicholas) Nenow of Cedar Falls, grandchildren Eleanor J. and Steven J. Nenow of Cedar Falls; and brothers Jeffrey J. (Marguerite) Edelnant of Coatesville, PA; Jerrold S. (Theresa) Edelnant of Northridge, CA; and Michael (Courtney) Edelnant of Casselberry, FL; and special cousins Elyse (Randy) Frapart of Houston, TX; Eliot (Lynn) Slovin of Arlington, TX; and Susan (Buck) Lindgren of Ingelside, IL.  He also was a treasured friend.  Family and friends agree they wouldn’t be who they are if Jay hadn’t been part of their stories. 

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles, and cousin Ronnie Slovin. 

A celebration of Jay’s life has been tentatively scheduled for Saturday afternoon, May 3, 2025 in Cedar Falls. 

Memorial donations may be made to the UNI (University of Northern Iowa) Foundation and directed to The Edelnant Theatre Enhancement Quasi-Endowed Fund. The project # is 223908.

Donations may be made online using this link: UNI Foundation | UNI Foundation .  Donors will need to select “Other designation” from the “Select a Designation” dropdown menu, and then type in the project name and number.  Checks should be made out to the UNI Foundation, with the designation name and number included in the memo field and mailed to:

University of Northern Iowa Foundation

121 Commons
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0282

Jay’s family wishes to thank the staffs at the Mayo Clinic and St. Mary’s hospital, Rochester, MN; Cedar Valley Digestive Health Center; Cedar Valley Hospice; the Western Home Communities’ Deery Suites, Dr. Parag Sampat, Tammy Miller, RN, and all the medical professionals who provided kind care during Jay’s illness. 

Frances M. Ploessl

Frances Mary Ploessl, age 79, passed away peacefully at her home in East Dubuque, IL on February 5, 2025.  While living with Dementia, her strength and spirit, even in the face of such a cruel illness, were truly inspiring. She was surrounded by her family, who stood by her side until the very end.

Family and friends may call from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Thomas Srenn officiating. Burial will follow at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Fran was born on January 13, 1946 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Nick and Frances (Horch) Slaats, Jr.

A common theme that started early in Fran Ploessl’s life was resilience. That resilience began the first year of her life in 1946, after her mother, Frances Matilda, passed away, and she was split up from her five siblings, Shirley, Joe, Bob, Diane, and Evie, and father, Nick, while she lived with her aunt, Dolly. Three years later, when her father remarried, the family was reunited. Fran was able to spend the rest of her childhood with her brothers and sisters, along with new additions of Carol, Eddie, and stepmother, Rita.

Fran began her own family in 1964 with the birth of her first child, Lori. In the coming years she had two more children, Donna and Mark. As a mother, Fran was convinced that her children’s futures’ lay in education. As a young mother, Fran would read to all three of her kids and would trade buying them candy in favor of Little Golden Books from whatever store they went to.

Fran’s love for children was clear. While her kids were in school, she began working as a Lunch Lady at East Dubuque Public School, where she was known as the Cookie Lady for giving kids extra cookies. She worked in the lunchroom for 38 years, building strong connections with students every day. Years after she retired, kids would continue to come up to her in public, letting her know that they missed her in the cafeteria, and that lunch was not the same without her.

As a parent, aunt, and friend, Fran always put others before herself. Whether that came from sitting in less than ideal weather while watching Lori cheerlead, driving all around the tristate area to see Donna play in one of her several sports, taking Mark to a karate tournament, babysitting nieces and nephews, or just cooking a meal for someone who needed it, you could count on Fran.  She was the perpetual rock that was always there when someone needed her, and never once ever considered asking for anything in return.

Fran’s caring and loving ways set her up perfectly for her favorite role in life, which was being a grandma. She had four grandchildren: Luke, Tori, Cole, and Joey. With all four of them, she paid special attention to their interests, becoming a quasi-expert in whatever they were into at the time, making spending time with Grandma even more fun. The love she showed the four of them was immeasurable and cannot be adequately described.

When she was not putting a smile on other people’s faces, Fran was an avid crafter. Her love for creativity and art took the form in several projects, ranging from basketry, crochet, weaving, coloring, beading, knitting, and many more. She would then give these crafts to others. To put it lightly, there are most likely several hundred Fran Ploessl creations floating around the tristate area, furthering her legacy, and showing what kind of person, she was.

Fran touched the lives of everyone she met and constantly worked to make the world a better place. Although she will be dearly missed, her legacy of kindness will live on, and continue making people smile.

She is survived by her daughters, Lori (Joe) Pickel of Arlington, VA, and Donna of Montevallo, AL, her son, Mark (Lisa) of Dubuque, IA; four grandchildren; sister, Evie (Ben) Brady: and brother, Bob (Linda) Slaats. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Shirley Slaats, Diane (Jack) Mellott, Carol (Don) Larson, her brothers, Joe and Eddie (Kathy) Slaats and good friend Glenn Hockman.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their care of Fran and her family.  In lieu of flowers please consider donating at Hospice of Dubuque serving Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

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

Jennifer A. Torres-Briscoe

Jennifer A. Torres-Briscoe, 55, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at home on Thursday, January 30, 2025. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Jennifer was born on September 10, 1969, in San Diego, CA, to Julieus and Yvonne (Webster) Torres. She attended Monte Vista High School in Spring Valley, CA. She worked at K-Mart in Dubuque for ten years. A devoted caregiver, Jennifer, spent her time caring for her mother until her passing. Despite having limited resources, she was always willing to help anyone in need. Jennifer loved her dog Scrappy and enjoyed visiting the casino.

She is survived by her two sons, David Keeton and Cody (Morgan) Dawson; a granddaughter, Emma; a soon-to-be-born grandchild; three brothers, Richard (Andrea) Babcock, Julieus (Colleen) Torres and Oscar Torres; three sisters, Mary Jane (Bobby) Duncan, Julie (Bob) Everson, and Jeanette Taylor; a favorite nephew, Curtis Taylor; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

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

Timothy J. Sheehan

Timothy Joseph Sheehan, 40, of Cuba City, WI, formerly of Menominee, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 2, 2025 in Cuba City, WI.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 7, 2025 at Nativity BVM Church in Menominee, with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, where the parish rosary will be recited at 2:30 p.m.

Tim was born on August 10, 1984 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Daniel E. and Donna J. (Rojemann) Sheehan. He attended Nativity BVM School and was a graduate of Wahlert High School, the class of 2003.

Tim went right into the workforce and worked for his family business, Sheehan Auto Electric, for 18 years, and later worked at Prairie Farms in Dubuque, IA for two years.

Tim was a hard worker and was always willing to help others. Tim was quiet, but once you got to know him, he had a lot to say. Tim was witty and loved to make others laugh. Tim was the life of the party, and he lived life to the fullest. He had a love for hunting and fishing that started at a young age. He loved to be on the Mississippi River on his boat.  He was an outdoorsman who loved to camp. He was an avid and loyal Dallas Cowboys fan.

Surviving is his son Caleb Sheehan; his parents, Dan and Donna Sheehan of Menominee, IL; his four sisters, Tina (Scott) Dierks, Bellevue, IA, Terri (Steve) Ludwig, Elizabeth, IL, Tonia (Jamie) Sieverding, Bellevue, IA, and Tracy (Adam) Lange of Menominee, IL; three brothers, Tom (Lynn) Sheehan, Hazel Green, WI, Tony (Stacy) Sheehan, Menominee, IL, and Troy (Kayla Ring) Sheehan of Dubuque, IA; nieces and nephews; godmother, Debbie Hoppman, and godfather Glenn Rojemann; aunts and uncles; former brother-in-law, Greg (Jessica) Weiland of Kieler, WI, and his good friend, Dan Smith.

He was preceded in death by two siblings in infancy, Todd and Tiffany, his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Viola Rojemann and paternal grandparents, Tom and Mary Sheehan; a nephew in infancy, Joseph Sheehan; aunts, Denise Sheehan, and Marty Rojemann, cousin, Rob Sheehan and cousin-in-law, Brian Gockel.

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

Patricia C. Donath

Patricia Catherine Donath, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at the funeral home with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Pat was born on July 3, 1945, in Dubuque, daughter of Thomas E. and Hilda V. (Altman) Smith. She married the love of her life, Harlan Wayne Donath, on July 1, 1961.

Pat grew up in the Point area of Dubuque where she was sometimes known as “Johnny” to her siblings. She was a young wife and mother. After all her children were in school, she began working in the convenience store industry. For many years she made that first pot of coffee for the day. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and had many long-time friends. She enjoyed the cruises they went on, and the games they played, like cards, bingo, slots, and bowling. She enjoyed playing spoons with the grandchildren. She was always there to help and was a caring person who put others before herself.

We already miss her deeply but we are comforted to know she is no longer suffering and is reunited with Wayne.

Survivors include her children Deb (Greg) Molzof, Barb (Russ) Lau, Don (Michelle) Donath and Brian Donath, grandchildren Nick, Adam (Elizabeth), Alex Molzof, Josh (Laura), John (Aimee) Lau, Aaron, Jeffrey, Katie, Carson and Samantha Donath, and Brandon Adams, 15 great-grandchildren Tysen, Lauren, Ryan, Logan, Weston, Evan, Finley, Callahan, Rhett, Evalynn, Joseph, Tanner, Skylus, Sophie and Zoey, sisters Mary Shireman and Sandy (Harold) Millman, brother Dave (Mary) Smith, in-laws Don (Marolyn) Donath, Diane (Harvey) Duve, Terry (Sharon) Donath, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2022, her parents, her sisters Gloria Wiederhold and Carol Shireman, and her brothers Tom and Bill Smith.

Pat’s family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the compassionate care given to Mom.

Jane M. Anthony

Jane M. Anthony, 92, of Altoona (long time Dyersville resident), passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Taylor House Hospice, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Funeral services will follow at 12 p.m. at the funeral home with a private burial after services.

Jane was born at home in Hopkinton, IA on October 10, 1932, to Charles and Theresa (Hennen) Kramer. She grew up on farms near Worthington, Dyersville and Peosta. She met her husband, Charlie Anthony, at the Melody Mill in Dubuque and they married on January 14, 1956, at Holy Family New Melleray Church near Peosta.

Together they raised their 3 children and in 1967 moved to Dyersville to help open the Theisen’s store. Jane spent many years working at the store and at the corporate office as a buyer for the organization; she loved her work. She spoke often about family and friends, the many stories of a lifetime that lasted 92 years and her gratitude for the love and care she received from her children.

Jane is survived by her children: Tom Anthony, Lynn Anthony (Michael Lazere) and Carol Kline-Caldwell (Scott Caldwell); grandchildren: Zoey Lazere (Tim Sandwick) and Garrison (Jae) Kline; great grandchildren: Lyra and Aurelia Kline; sisters-in-law: Hilda Kramer, Geri Anthony, Carolyn Anthony and numerous Kramer and Anthony nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jane is preceded in death by her husband, Charlie, her parents, Charlie and Theresa Kramer, a brother, Gerald Kramer, a nephew, Gerald Kramer Jr., a niece, Marla Pitz and a son-in-law, Mark Kline, in-laws: Charles and Josephine (Nauman) Anthony, Bill Anthony, Herb Anthony, Jack and Doris Anthony, Mel Anthony, Doris Anthony Pitz and Wally Pitz, Jim and Mary Jane Anthony and Merlin Anthony.

Memorials can be directed to: Taylor House Hospice:https://give.unitypoint.org/campaign/620632/donate

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Dean A. Jensen

Dean A. Jensen, 74, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Unity Point Finley Hospital.

Visitation will be on Saturday, February 8, from 3 pm. until the 6 p.m. funeral service at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where military honors will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard and the American Legion Post #6. Rev. Dianne Grace will officiate.

Dean was born May 30, 1950 in Lancaster, WI, the son of James and Lois (Kemper) Jensen.

He attended high school in Lancaster, where he played on the football team. After graduation, Dean enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the Special Forces as a Green Beret during Vietnam. After his honorable discharge, Dean was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works, until his retirement.

Dean married Lori Leu on June 1, 1989. He enjoyed working in the yard, gardening, and horticulture. He was a firearm enthusiast, enjoyed target shooting, and was a member of the Izaak Walton League. Dean built and flew model airplanes, and was an all around handyman. He always had a woodworking project going, and his son spent many years enjoying the fort Dean built for him. Dean also enjoyed cross country skiing, kayaking, chess, and backgammon. He loved animals, especially dogs.

Dean is survived by his wife, Lori Jensen, of Dubuque; his son, Adam (Kamber) Jensen, of Mount Horeb, WI; two sisters, Barbara (Dwayne) Holliday, and Laura (Larry) Salopek; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Donald (Josefa) Jensen.

Dean’s family would like to thank Dr. Zhengjin Cao for his care of Dean.

Izac J. Aldrich

Izac James Aldrich, 11, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa. Born on October 5, 2013, in Iowa City, Iowa, Izac was a cherished son, brother, grandson, nephew, and cousin. His indomitable spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

From the moment Izac entered the world, he defied expectations. Doctors predicted he would not live beyond the age of five, but he proved them wrong. He was a beloved student at Eisenhower Elementary School in Davenport, where he was known for his eagerness to engage with the world around him.  He was captivated by the world of light and sound. His favorite toys were those that lit up and played music, providing him with endless entertainment. Izac’s curiosity and desire to explore were evident in the way he reached out to the world around him, always eager to bring people and objects closer for discovery. A fan of television, he particularly enjoyed episodes of Spongebob and Paw Patrol, however, his distaste for commercials was well-known, as they interrupted his viewing and listening pleasure.

Izac is survived by his loving mother, Amber (Goepfert) Aldrich of Davenport, IA; his father, Kody Aldrich of Ft. Dodge, IA; his siblings, Dakota Goepfert of Davenport, IA, Natan Arnold of Sabula, IA, Zander Aldrich of Davenport, IA, and Lucas Aldrich of Davenport, IA. His maternal grandparents, Annette and Keith Grimm of Delmar, IA, and paternal grandparents, Brenda and Todd Aldrich of Monticello, IA.  Izac’s special aunt, Dani (Jens Barten) Goepfert of Maquoketa, IA, along with numerous great aunts, great uncles, and cousins, who will also hold him dear in their hearts.

Izac was a precious child who, in his 11 years, taught us more about the preciousness of life than we could have ever imagined. Though he has left us too soon, his spirit will continue to shine brightly in the memories of those who loved him.

Izac was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal great-grandparents, his twin siblings, Great Aunt Karen, Aunt Nicole, and his Great Uncle Vernon Mangler, who passed on the same day as Izac. Their reunion in eternity is a comforting thought to those who grieve their loss.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There are no public services planned at this time.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Izac James Aldrich family, c/o Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.

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

Ruth B. Henry

Ruth Bernice Henry, 91, of Galena, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Midwest Medical Center in Galena. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends are welcome to gather from 10 AM until the time of the mass. A parish rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM, Catholic Daughters prayer service will follow. The burial will occur in the church cemetery.

Ruth was born on December 2, 1933, in Chicago, IL, to Elmer and Sophie (Krystyniak) Trimpler. She married James Joseph Henry in Chicago on April 16, 1955, and he preceded her in death on November 17, 2022. A devoted homemaker, Ruth later held various professional positions after raising her family. She was a talented seamstress, cook, and baker, with her cookies being a favorite at the Galena Country Fair for many years. Ruth enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, and sailing and was an avid reader, particularly fond of history. Ruth was active in many capacities with St. Michael’s Church and a member of its choir. She also served as Treasurer, and Vice Regent for the Catholic Daughters of America.

She is survived by her daughter, Theresa Severin, and four grandchildren: Jim Severin, Andy (Nicole) Severin, Nikki Severin, and Jonathon Henry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter, Patty Henry, her grandson, Patrick Henry, and two sisters, Evelyn Smidl and Elaine Hebel.

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

JoAnn C. Fries

JoAnn C. Fries, 87 of Dubuque, IA passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025, at her home with her loving family by her side.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 10:30 with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

JoAnn was born on August 18, 1937, in Dubuque, the daughter of Paul and Vivian (Sullivan) Kieffer. She married Cyril Fries on September 3, 1955, at the Church of the Nativity, he preceded her in death on Oct. 25, 2016. She worked at Stonehill Care Center and enjoyed reading, flowers and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her son Jeffrey (Linda) Fries; her daughter Danielle (Kevin) Kerkenbush; two grandsons Jason (Emily) Fuller, and Cody (Cortney) Fuller, along with four great grandchildren Olive Mae Fuller, Paxton Fuller, Cy Fuller, and Colson Fuller.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, four brothers and two sisters.

JoAnn requests no flowers and would prefer memorials in her name directed to Saint Raphael Cathedral or Hospice of Dubuque.

Sr. Katherine E. Heffernan, BVM