Obituaries Archive

Diana J. Fettkether

Diana Jean (Edmonds) Fettkether, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa died peacefully at home on Monday, May 19th, 2025 surrounded by her family. A brief time of sharing will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, May 23rd, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 24th, 2025 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Jason Davis officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Diana was born on December 30, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Everett W. and Elsie J. (Halverson) Edmonds. Diana was united in marriage to Keith D. Fettkether on May 4, 1963 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa. They were blessed with three children, Michael Scott, Lisa Ann, and Kristine Marie. They celebrated 53 years of marriage prior to Keith’s death in 2016.

Diana attended Lincoln Elementary School, Washington Junior High, and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1962. Diana then gave her whole self to the care of her children, being a mom was her top priority. Some of the ways she did so was through teaching her kids how to fish, being “Mom Taxi”, volunteering with Troop 11 Boy Scouts, and serving as PTA President at Bryant School. Diana was a loyal and proud mutual clerk at Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino for 33 years, finishing her service alongside the final race in 2022.

Diana was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and could always be seen with a can of Coca Cola with light ice. She enjoyed spending her time playing blackjack and euchre, bowling, fishing, watching the Hallmark channel, and betting on the puppy races. Celebrating holidays was something she loved, every inch of her home was always meticulously decorated. She baked the best Valentine’s Day cookies and hand-delivered taffy apples in the fall. Throughout the year, and especially at Christmastime, Diana showered her kids, grandkids, family, and beyond with never-ending gifts. Giving to others brought her so much joy.

What defined her most was her selflessness and generosity she showed to those she loved. Her greatest sources of pride were her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. “Grandma Di” was their biggest cheerleader – she never missed a single moment. She showed us, through her unwavering love, that family always comes first. Whatever we needed, she was there without hesitation. Whatever we dreamed, she worked to make it come true.

Those left to honor her memory and carry on her legacy, include her children Michael (Georgiann) Fettkether, Lisa (Chris) Vogt, and Kristine (Patrick) Fair, all of Dubuque; grandchildren, Lily Fettkether, Benjamin (Court Schueller) Pfab, Samantha (Tyler) Hospodarsky, Courtney (Keegan) Gebke, McKenzie (Payton) Klinefelter, Ryan (Taylor) Fair, and Dylan Fair; great grandson “my big boy” Finnegan Fair and great granddaughter Elsie Gebke due in June; step grandchildren Colton and Landon Ender and Tiffany, Will, and Olivia (Kyle Miller) Vogt; step great grandson Wiley Miller; siblings Shirley (Jack) Sibley, Carole Delaney, and John Edmonds; along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband Keith, Diana was preceded in death by her parents Elsie and Eddie Edmonds, mother and father in law Dorothy and Delbert Fettkether, and nephew Jason Delaney.

Whenever you see a yellow rose, we hope you’ll think of our beloved Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma Di – it was her signature gesture of love.

In lieu of flowers, a Diana J. Fettkether Memorial Fund has been established.

Diana’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tom and Judy Edmonds for their love, Dr. Ryan Stille, Dr. Ringold, and Kari K. (lab tech) for their care, and Kristina, Karla, and Angela from Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and support.

Donald W. Leik

Donald Wray Leik, 81, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at University of Iowa Hospital.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, May 25, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Interment will take place immediately following the visitation at Mount Calvary Cemetery, with the procession leaving at 2 p.m.

Donald was born June 28, 1943 in Dubuque at Mercy Hospital, the only child of Herman William and Marie Theresa (Huber) Leik. His first home was on lower Kaufmann Ave. He then moved to Edith St. on Dubuque’s north end. He went to grade school at Sacred Heart Catholic School, graduating in 1957. He went on to Wahlert High School, graduating in 1961. His first job was painting houses in his neighborhood at age 14. He then got a job at White Bear Typewriter Exchange repairing typewriters. When he turned 18 he got a job with Illinois Central Railroad. He worked there for 9 years. He served in the Iowa National Guard from 1965 to 1970. He also worked part time at Marty’s Service Station on 5th and Locust from 1966 until about 1990. In the fall of 1969 he started at Dubuque John Deere Works, where he worked until his retirement in 2000.

Donald married Diane Gassman on April 16, 1966. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Donald (Amy) Leik Jr., and Tina (Bob) Connolly, both of Dubuque, and Kevin (Suzanne Highet, of Portland, OR; grandchildren, David (Jelena) Leik, Maria (Zach) Grissom, Kellie (Fiancé Braden Daniels) Connolly, Benjamin Leik, Miranda McCaffery, Aaron Connolly, Robert Kaiser, Zoe Leik, and Jackie Kaiser; great-grandchildren Jude and Blair Grissom; many sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Clint P. Tarnutzer

Clint P. Tarnutzer, age 64, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home on May 20, 2025, with family by his side.  To celebrate Clint’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held following visitation at 11:30 a.m., on Friday at the Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Clint was born on August 11, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Donald Paul and Lois Marie (Ott) Tarnutzer.

Clint was hard working, loved his garden, his family and being outside.  He loved to cook for friends and family, making sure no one ever left hungry.  He always smiled when little kids were around, he loved watching them laugh and play.  Clint worked at Rite Hite for 25 years, The Pit Stop Bar and Grill, and worked at other places bartending and cooking over the years.  He will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Clint’s memory include

his fiancé,
Venita Ward, Dubuque, IA;

Venita’s children,
Daniel Lawrence Hess, James Arthur Hess and Stacy Marie Hess-Marcov, along with several kids and grandkids;

a brother,
Craig (Sherrie) Tarnutzer, Denver, CO;

a niece and nephew,
Taryn (Ryan) Bates Sr. and Nicholas (Tiffany) Tarnutzer Sr.;

and his great nephews,
Ryan Jr., T.J. and Nicholas Jr.

Clint was preceded in death by his parents and an Uncle Lyle Ott.

Clint’s family would like to thank Dr. Cheryl Morgan, the staff and nurses of the Mercy Cancer Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding care and support.

Cards and memorials in Clint’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Clint Tarnutzer Family.

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

Delray J. Johnson

Delray J. “Del” Johnson, 87, of Peosta died Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Stonehill Care Center.  Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 24 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church 2145 John F. Kennedy Road, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m.   Military Rites will be accorded.  Burial will be on the Sunday, May 25, in Rush Lake Cemetery, in Mallard, Iowa.

Del was born April 25, 1938 in Mallard, Iowa, son of John Richard “J.R.” and Margaret “Greta” (Cagann) Johnson.

After Graduating from Mallard High School in 1956, Del served in the US Air Force. He was honorably discharged on October 12, 1961.

While attending the University of Iowa, he met Joyce Nielsen while singing in the University Old Gold Singers.  They wed on June 19, 1965 in Harlan, Iowa.

Del worked in sales, both in insurance and real estate. He worked at Sheppley Realty and was co-owner of VIP Realty. He was a former member and President of the Dubuque Board of Realtors.

Del was also a past member of the board of the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra.  He sang with the Dubuque Chorale for over 35 years with his wife, Joyce.  They went on six international tours with the Chorale, and sang at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sydney Opera House.

Del was a long time member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church where he served as an elder for many years.  In his retirement, he worked as an associate at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce of Peosta; two sons, Mike (Jane) of Alexandria, Kentucky and Curt (fiancé Michelle) of Frederick, Maryland; six grandchildren, Kim (Chris), Kate, Olivia; and Sophia, Nick and Ava.

He is also survived by his sister in law, Janell and three nephews, Klint, Keven and Richard.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Karl.

Memorials may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra or the Dubuque Chorale.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at MercyOne 4 west, Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care.

Sandra Lieb

Sandra Lieb, 69 years old of Dubuque, Iowa passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2025.

Visitation will be from 10:00a.m.-1:00p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1:00p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Sandy was born on February 13, 1956, to Ralph and Peggy Trowbridge in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sandy attended Dubuque Hempstead High School. Sandy married Dave Lieb in 1973, and celebrated 50 years together.

Sandy retired from Dubuque Stamping and Manufacturing after 40 years. She enjoyed spending her free time with her family and friends. To Sandy, there was no stranger. She talked with anyone and everyone and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it no matter the cost.

Sandy was preceded in death by her husband, David Lieb; her parents, Ralph and Peggy Trowbridge; and her in-laws, David and Gloria (Pat) Lieb; Her sister in-laws, Cheryl Lieb, Cynthia Lieb (Trine), and Sue Lieb Schmitz.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy Lieb (Lawson) and fiancé Jason Adams. Stepdaughter, Sherri Houser (Mark). Grandchildren Haley Seippel, Rylee Lawson, Mark Houser, Matthew Houser and Great granddaughter Rory Jo Emden. Brother Jerry Trowbridge (Nancy) and sisters Barb Saunier (Mark), Dawn Udelhofen (Ron), Bev Steuer (Tom) and Robin Breiner (Randy). And Willy Trowbridge (nephew that was the son she never had) along with several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers a Sandy Lieb Memorial Fund has been established.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Wilma R. Hilby

Wilma R. (Loeffelholz) Hilby, 80, of Menominee, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at home.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 – 11:15 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Nativity BVM Catholic Church in Menominee, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m., with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Members of St. Ann’s Society will recite the rosary at 9:15 a.m. on Friday at the church.

Wilma was born on May 10, 1945, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Raymond J. and Germaine (Wiederholt) Loeffelholz.  She was united in marriage to Richard J. Hilby on December 2, 1967, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Kieler, WI.  He preceded her in death on January 23, 2006.

Wilma and Richard were life-long farmers. She was a member of Nativity BVM Church and it’s St. Ann’s Society. Wilma was a graduate of Hazel Green High School. She enjoyed gardening, crafts, spoiling her grandchildren and great grandchildren, playing softball, volleyball and attending the Loeffelholz family picnics and reading.

Surviving are five children, Laura (Lyle) Brincks, Ossian, IA, Debbie (Pat Wolter) Miller, Hazel Green, WI, Becky (Greg) Schuckert, Durango, IA, Glenn (Nici) Hilby, Menominee and Carolyn (Christian) Brenke, Holy Cross, IA; 16 grandchildren, Nathan, Christopher (Abby), Amber (Ryan), Josh (Kelsey), Katie (Mark), Zach, Cory, Bella, and Nick, Abby, Matt, Gracie, Charlie, Lily (Anthony), Magen, and Edward; four great grandchildren, Emma and Mya, and Cooper and Kaden; her siblings, Serena (Melvin) Manders, Mary Jane (Jim) Glasker, James (Doris) Loeffelholz and Isidore (Janet) Loeffelholz; her in-laws, Arlene (Jim) Budden, Jane (Tony) Middendorf and Mae (Jerry) Kuhl; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond & Germaine, her husband, Richard, two brothers, Cletus and Bernard Loeffelholz, and in-laws, Earl Hilby, Mary Ethel Martin, Helen Roth, Lillian Tranel and Voletta Pluym.

Wilma’s family wishes to thank the Menominee-Dunleith Fire Dept., Galena EMS, Galena Police Dept., the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Dept. and Vicky Middendorf for their quick response and compassion.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

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

Donald N. Welter

Donald N. Welter, 77, of Bankston, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at his home.

Visitation for Don will be held from 2 to 7 p.m., on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Don will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth with full military honors by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Don was born September 22, 1947, in Farley, Iowa, son of Carl and Mary (Griffin) Welter.  He was a 1965 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  He was a veteran, having served as a Sergeant in the Air Force from 1965 to 1968.  On August 11, 1973, he was united in marriage to Alice Hammerand at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth and a member of the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

He lived as a country boy at heart all of his life.  He loved being outdoors.  Simple things in life gave him pleasure.  He especially enjoyed time with family, farming, fishing, gardening, and basking in the sunshine or just relaxing with his beloved wife of nearly 52 years.  He took pride in his family and relished being able to quietly rejoice in his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory are his wife Alice Welter, of Bankston; four children, Donna (Steve) Schwers of Luxemburg, Karla (Mark) Digmann of Farley, Brian (Nicolette) Welter of Holy Cross, and Dawn (Luke) Knipper of Earlville; 11 grandchildren, Leah, Ryan, Ella and Anna Digmann, Emma, Owen, Cora, Claire and Grant Welter, and Blake and Trent Knipper; three siblings, Rita (Ken) Kiefer of Rochester, MN, Jean (Terry) Theisen of Topeka, KS, and Jim (Jackie) Welter of Dubuque; sisters and brothers-in-law, Pamela Graham of New Hampton, David (Carol) Hammerand, Arlan (Midge) Hammerand, both of Sherrill, Joan Waller of Key West, Walter Hammerand of Fennimore, WI, and Gloria Lenhart of Zwingle.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a son, Eric Welter in 2007; a grandson, Reece Knipper; a sister, Sr. Nora Welter PBVM; a brother, Clete Welter; father and mother-in-law, John and Velma (Hartbeck) Hammerand; brothers and sisters in-law, Martin (Norma Jean) Hammerand, Raymond “Blackie” Waller, Dorothy Hammerand, and Doug Lenhart.

A Video Tribute may be viewed, and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Rex J. Beck

Rex J. Beck, 89, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

Rex Joseph Beck was born on May 7, 1936, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Cyril Rudolph and Pauline Marie (Eads) Beck.  He was a 1954 graduate of Delmar High School.  He married Gail Caroline Bruse on August 19, 1955, in Maquoketa, Iowa.  To this union five children were born, Linda, Deb, Mike, Tom, and Jeff.

Rex served in the Korean conflict with an honorable discharge.  He was a lifetime farmer. Rex loved spending time with his family and enjoyed many hobbies.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Linda (Rodger) Hull of Maquoketa, IA, Deb (Mark) White of Delmar, IA, Tom (Susan) Beck of Delmar, IA, and Jeff (Jennie) Beck of Delmar, IA; 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren with one on the way.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Gail and a son Mike Beck.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating Rex’s life will be held at the Miles, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the City of Delmar Beck Memorial.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Barbara A. Jaeger

Barbara A. Jaeger, 76, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025, at MercyOne in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 9 – 10:30 a.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Worthington, Iowa, with burial following in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Barb was born on June 25, 1948, in Epworth, Iowa, daughter of Otto and Mary (Shaw) O’Dell.  She married Eldon Jaeger on November 25, 1970, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa.

Barb held in-home daycare for 25 years with the opportunity to care for her own grandkids. She cherished the holidays and the family gatherings. She took great pride in her yard and flower garden along with her wooden crafts. She loved attending her grandchildren’s events. She enjoyed fishing with her sister, Joan, and playing cards with friends and family. She assisted Eldon with the trucking business, and Midwest Pride In Your Ride. She was a 17-year Cancer Survivor.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Eldon; children: Rod (Jennie) Jaeger and Kathy (Mark) Massey all of Worthington; son-in-law, Mike Heiderscheit of Worthington; grandchildren: Tyler (Amber) Jaeger, Austin (Karlyn) Jaeger, Logan and Leah Massey, step-grandson, Luke (Chyanne) Soppe; siblings: Joan (Jim) Walters of Guttenberg, David (Judy) O’Dell of Bernard, Norene Dole of Dubuque, Elaine O’Dell of Dubuque, Robert (Shirley) O’Dell of Epworth, Brian (DeeDee) O’Dell of Epworth, Cheryl (Tom) Rauch of Monticello; and a sister-in-law, Sue (Jim) Guthrie of Hopkinton.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Brenda Heiderscheit; siblings: Sam O’Dell, Clarence O’Dell, Kaye (Frank) Kamp, Allan O’Dell, Karen (Jim) Beau, and parents-in-law, Urban and Irene Jaeger.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneral.com.

Beverly J. McDermott

Beverly J. (Merz) McDermott, 84, of Dubuque, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, surrounded by her family following a brief illness.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Friday, May 23, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Bev will be 1:30 pm Friday, May 23, 2025, at Linwood Cemetery with Mr. Mike Lightfoot officiating.

Beverly was born on January 7, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Oliver and Mary F. (Garrett) Merz.

Bev spent most of her working career at ServPro of Dubuque.

She had a special love for Elvis and Coca-Cola and was always on the lookout for memorabilia.

Survivors include her eight children: Teresa (Tom) Theisen, Sandy Neuhaus (Terry Fortmann), Joe (Kerri) McDermott, Jackie Seikola (Tom Friederick), Tom (Sheonna) McDermott, Bill (Colleen) McDermott, Dan (Melissa) McDermott, and Edward McDermott; 32 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and seven siblings: Diane Bradbery, Donny Merz, Janice Peil, Sue (Vince) Lopez, Terry (Carol) Merz, Nancy (Dennis) Hermsen, and Dennis Merz.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Mary Ernzen; one son, Jimmy McDermott; three sons-in-law, Axel Seikola, Jim Ernzen, and Dean Neuhaus; and six siblings: Gloria Cockrell, Oliver Merz Jr., Joe Merz, Betty Vogt, Carol Henkel, and Bob Kirkpatrick.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and the doctors and nurses at MercyOne Dubuque for the compassionate care they provided to Bev.

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

Don J. Luchsinger

Don J. Luchsinger, 71, of Dubuque, died on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at his home in Dubuque.

Per Don’s wishes, there will be no formal services.

Don was born on July 23, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the son of George and Marlene (Schrobilgen) Luchsinger. On September 22, 1978, he married Sheila Krause at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA.

Don was a lifelong Cubs and Bears fan. He always loved a good game of euchre at family gatherings.

Survivors include his wife, Sheila Luchsinger of Dubuque; one son, Dan (Jen) Luchsinger of Rosemont, MN; one grandson, Hayden Luchsinger; his mother, Marlene Luchsinger of Dubuque; six siblings, Connie (Doug) Dirks of Richmond, KY, Greg (Jane) Luchsinger of Dubuque, Chris (Mike) Shaffer of Dubuque, Tam (Tom) Westhoff of Delhi, IA, Dave (Sue) Luchsinger of Dubuque, and Joe (Kari) Luchsinger of Sherwood, OR; one brother-in-law, Mike Krause of Dubuque; 12 nieces and nephews; and 18 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his father; one brother, John, in infancy; and one great-nephew, Aiden Dirks.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Don’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Shirley D. Ehlinger

Shirley D. Ehlinger, age 81, of Burleson, Texas and formerly of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Huguley Hospital in Fort Worth.  To celebrate Shirley’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  At 11:30 a.m., there will be a time for sharing memories, followed by burial at Dubuque Memorial Gardens and a luncheon at the Eagle’s Club in Maquoketa from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Shirley was born on February 6, 1944, in Bremerton, Washington, the daughter of George P. and Katherine A. (Heribach) Rohwein.

Shirley married Kenneth Ehlinger on May 11, 1963, in Bremerton, Washington.  They had 3 wonderful children together.  She worked as a CNA for 25 years.  Shirley worked at Mt. Carmel, Maquoketa Care, the Jackson County Hospital and lastly with Hospice of Maquoketa.  Even after her retirement Shirley continued to volunteer with Hospice.  She and Ken also owned and operated Quarter Deck in Baldwin for 18 years.  In her free time she enjoyed traveling, crocheting, reading and visiting with friends.  Shirley loved her family and cherished spending time with her grandchildren.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Shirley’s memory include

her children,
LaCinda (Ricky) Carr, Burleson, TX,
Deborah (Mark) Uthe, Manchester, IA
and Kevin Ehlinger, Maquoketa, IA;

14 grandchildren,
Shawna (Jeff) Busker, Kristen (Nick) Carr, Brandon (Jonathan) Mills, Chad (Heather) Mills, Nathan (Cheryl) Carr, Ashley (Tailor) Mills, Jenna Carr, Jared (Deb) Carr, Dakota (Jimmy) Potter, Jennifer Uthe, Skye (Al) Uthe, Nickolas Uthe, Kaitlyn Uthe and Bryce Ehlinger;

29 great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Mary Smith, Bremerton, WA
and Ray (Darleen) Rohwein, Silverdale, WA;

and a brother-in-law,
Mike Johnston, Wasilla, AK.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth Ehlinger; her siblings, Christina (Chuck) Bojarski, Ted (Sandra) Rohwein, Charles Rohwein, Dorothy (Forrest) Gross and Rosemarie Johnston; and a brother-in-law, Tom Smith.

Cards and memorials in Shirley’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Shirley Ehlinger Family.

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

EC Braem

EC Braem, age 48, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at home.  In keeping with his family’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or services.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

EC was born on October, 20, 1976, in Dubuque, the son of Thomas and Sharon (McElmeel) Braem.

He attended school in Dubuque and graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School Class of 1995.  EC then attended University of Iowa and earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree.

He was employed with Copyworks in Dubuque for 25 years.  EC was an avid reader and particularly enjoyed reading graphic novels since he was 5 years old.  He also enjoyed going to the movies and liked all types of films.

Those left to cherish EC’s memory include

his mother,
Sharon Braem, Dubuque, IA;

and his aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

EC was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Braem on May 5, 2021.

Cards and memorials in EC’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. EC Braem Family.

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

Lois A. Kramer

Lois A. Kramer, 85, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa, with burial following in the church cemetery. Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Lois was born on November 17th, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Alphonse and Anastasia (Klocker) Koopmann. She received her education at St. Joseph’s in Farley and later went on to Cosmetology school. She married Jerome Kramer on June 22nd, 1963, at St. John’s Placid Catholic Church. She was an active member of St. Francis Xavier parish, enjoying bingo and circle events. Lois was quick to help those in need, volunteering time for prayer chains, parish fundraisers, and served as a Dyersville Girl Scout leader.

Lois was a cosmetologist throughout her life. Lois and Jerome took over the family farm where she raised goats and provided the pasteurized milk to many local infants suffering from allergies. Lois came from a long line of gardeners and loved to provide home-grown food to family and friends.  Her many flower beds and berry patches were her “Happy Place” and she was able to see her garden planted this spring.  Throughout these gardens there were many birdhouses and feeders which provided entertainment throughout the year. Lois also enjoyed knitting, and crocheting with a local group, working on puzzles, and sewing for her family.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Jerome; children: Cheryl (Bill) Kluesner of New Vienna, Chris (Jill) Kramer and Lynne (Doug) Knipper of Dyersville, and Nicole (Brad) Murty of Conrad, Iowa. She was so proud of, and loved time spent with her grandchildren: Kaitlyn (Jacob) Baumhover, Sean Kluesner, Kyle (Ashley Baumler) Kramer, Caden Kramer, Kaylee Knipper, Collin Knipper, Libby (Spencer Rea) Knipper, Allison Knipper, Megan Murty, and Paul Murty along with great grandchild, Kip Baumhover.

She is survived by siblings: Kathy Kean, Pat (Deanna) Koopmann, Gerald (Joann) Koopmann, Ambrose (Marlene) Koopmann, Tom (Helen) Koopmann, Fred Koopmann and Steve Koopmann; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two infant children; her grandson, Nick Kramer; brother, Dan Koopmann; sister, Sr. Shawn Marie Koopmann PBVM; brother-in-law, James Kean, sister-in-law, Nancy Koopmann; and parents-in-law, Ray and Lucille Kramer.

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

Patricia A. Kurt

Patricia A. Kurt, 79, of Cascade, Iowa, formerly of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Accura Health Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for Patricia will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 6 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 for Patricia at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

Patricia was born July 25, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, daughter of Hillary Willis and Cecelia (Cooper) Willis-Rehak and step father, Edward Rehak. She was a graduate of Mercy School of Nursing in Iowa City, Iowa.  She worked as a Registered Nurse at John McDonald Hospital, Camp Courageous, and Advance Services all in Monticello, Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, and Ertl’s in Dyersville.  Patricia was a hard-working Registered Nurse with lots of patients for patients, she had a big heart, and lots of empathy and worked tirelessly alongside addicts to give them the support and help they needed to recover.

On February 8, 1969, Patricia was united in marriage to Ronald Kurt at Ludmila’s Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area. Ron preceded her in death on December 7, 2020.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade.  Patricia was also a member of the Mother’s Club, Aquin PTA, both in Cascade and she was a volunteer for the American Red Cross

Patricia is survived by her three sons, Jeff (Ann) Kurt of Fairmont, MN, Doug Kurt of Cascade and Mark Kurt (partner, Jon Donesa) of Chapel Hill, NC; three grandchildren, Tyler, Avery and Alayna Kurt; Brian’s former Fiancé and special family friend, Dawn Schueller; one sister, Marilyn (Tom) Turner of West Des Moines; two step brothers Dale (Susan) Rehak of Manassas, VA, and Adrian (Mary) Rehak of Marion; two a sister-in-law, Sheila Rehak of Cedar Rapids and Larita Kurt of Monticello.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Brian Kurt on May 4, 1997; one step brother, Donald Rehak; father and mother-in-law, George and Barbara (Weber) Kurt; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ralph (Lorraine) Kurt, Sr. Lucy Kurt, Rev. Allan J. Kurt, Wilma (Clifford) Priebe, Karl “Butch” Kurt and Steve Kurt in infancy.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Nurses and staff at Jones County Regional Hospital and the Infusion Center, Dr. Schwendinger, and her Palliative Care Nurse, Linda Oberbroeckling.

In lieu of flowers a Patricia A. Kurt memorial fund has been established.

A Video tribute may be viewed, or send online condolences to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com