Obituaries Archive

Kathleen F. Heim

Kathleen F. “Kathy” Heim, age 67 of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2020, after battling light chain myeloma and amyloid heart disease. Kathy was joyful and thankful to be able to spend her final few days at home with family and friends.

To honor Kathy, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2020, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Steeple Square, 101 E. 15th Street in Dubuque.  Her memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Matt Collins officiating. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathy’s family.

Kathy was born July 7, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, to the late Mathias J. “Mat” and Elizabeth M. “Betty” (Kretz) Ginter. She is 1 of 11 children.

Kathy was born and raised in Dubuque, IA. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic grade school and later graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1970. She met the love of her life and soul-mate, Benjamin “Ben” Heim when she was 14 years old. They were married 49 years ago, on July 18, 1970 at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque, IA.

Kathy was a devoted wife and homemaker. She cared deeply for her family and friends. In her younger days she enjoyed holidays, traveling, and camping. As she grew older, she also enjoyed spending quality time with her husband, dog, siblings, children and grandchildren; shopping for the perfect deal (even if she left empty handed); and watching flowers grow and bloom.

Kathy was a beautiful woman full of grace and love. She instilled a strong sense of family values in her children and was proud of them. She also showed compassion for those who struggled and went out of her way to make them feel special. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathy include,

her loving husband of 49 years,
Benjamin J. “Ben” Heim, Dubuque, Iowa;

her children,
Benjamin C. “Ben” Heim, Dubuque, Iowa,
Sherry L. (Dennis) Leeser, Dubuque, Iowa,
Amy M. (Tracy) Landry, Deer Park, Texas;

her 7 grandchildren,
Marissa Heim, Madison Heim, Dylan Leeser, Kayla Leeser, Seth Harris, Brennan Landry and Tyler Landry;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Laci, Bradley, Ryker, Luna;

her dog,
Bella;

her 7 siblings,
Ann E. Ginter, Dubuque, Iowa,
Margie M. Hoffmann, Dubuque, Iowa,
Christine A. (Doug) Schueller, Camanche, Iowa,
Jackie J. (Jeff) Damask, Oak Creek, Wisconsin,
Carolyn L. (Dan) Drish, Anamosa, Iowa,
John M. (Linda) Ginter, Dubuque, Iowa, and
Gary T. (Becky) Ginter, Walcott, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, Richard “Rick” Ginter and Charles “Chuck” Ginter; 1 sister, Mary Rogers; and 2 brothers-in-law, Barry Landolt and Donald “Bear” Hoffmann.

Kathy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Cardiac Intensive Care unit, for their compassionate care and support during her three-week stay. They also thank those who brought flowers, food and gifts; and who helped clean and plant flowers…Kathy felt truly blessed to have so much love in her life!  Thank you.

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

Sharon Hinz

Sharon “Sherry” Hinz, 69, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 26, 2020, surrounded by her family.

Public visitation will be held at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 from 3pm – 7pm. A funeral mass will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Dubuque, IA on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at 10:00 am, with Fr. Steven Rosonke officiating.

Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.  Social distancing guidelines will be followed.  Family requests masks be worn.  A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date.

The funeral will be live-streamed on the Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.

Sherry was born February 26, 1951, daughter to Robert and Mary Lou (Beitzel) Schauer of Dubuque. She attended St. Anthony’s School through 8th grade.  She was a graduate of Wahlert High School in 1969.  Sherry went on to study at Columbia Hospital School of Radiologic Technology, graduating in 1972.  She was a radiographer for 40 years, beginning at Jackson County Hospital in Maquoketa, IA.  She retired from Great Plains Orthopaedic, Peoria, IL, where she made many friends.

On July 14, 1973, she was united in marriage to Gil Hinz at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA.  They began their family in DeWitt, IA where they lived until 1988.  Later, living in Morton, IL for 22 years. In both locations, she made life-long friends she treated like family.  She was known for her hugs, faithfulness, support, and knowing just the right thing to say to ease your spirit.  In retirement, she and Gil moved back to be near family in Dubuque, IA.

Sherry enjoyed life; seeing a blessing in every aspect. Some of her cherished moments were when she was spending time with her children and grandchildren, playing Uno with them, teaching them to bake cookies, doing art projects, and watching Star Wars and Avengers movies. She also enjoyed flower gardening, golfing, painting, drawing, sewing (she was an expert costume designer!), playing cards, and traveling. She was a lifelong Hawkeye fan, at one time a member of the Hawkeye club while living in Illinois.  Most recently, Sherry looked forward to wintering in Gulf Shores, AL with Gil where she played cards with friends, golfed, and often walked the beach.

Sherry is survived by her mother, Mary Lou Schauer of Dubuque, IA,  husband, Gil, children, Abbey (Michael) Egnew of Blue Mounds, WI and A.J.(Allison) Hinz of Hattiesburg, MS; 7 grandchildren, Addison, Jack, Cole, Norah and Cooper Egnew and Ashlynn and Maddox Hinz; her siblings, Robert (Mary Kay) Schauer, Jr, Terri (Mike) Hesselman, Elizabeth (Carl) Heisler, Sam A. Schauer, Scott (Jane) Schauer, and Mike (Judy) Schauer.

She is preceded in death by her father, Robert Schauer, Sr, her father-in-law, Jack Hinz, her grandparents, Al and Stella Beitzel and Samuel and Gertrude Schauer, and cherished aunts and uncles.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Hermann, his staff, and Hospice of Dubuque for your never ending kindness and compassion. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

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

Joyce M. Henson

Joyce Marie Henson, 74, of Dubuque passed away at home, Thursday, July 25, 2020 with family by her side.  Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Linwood Cemetery.

Joyce was born September 8, 1945 in Dubuque, daughter of Joseph and Rose (Powers) Brown.  She attended St. Columbkille’s School and Wahlert High School.

Joyce met Dwight Henson, and they were married on April 24, 1970 at Sherrill United Methodist Church.  This past April they celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary.

She worked at Luther Manor and Mt. St. Francis where she loved her job and spending time with many of the sisters.

Joyce loved her family, being a mother, and spending time with her two daughters.  She loved to travel and enjoyed visiting her daughter in Denver, Colorado.  Some of her favorited trips included an Alaskan cruise, trips to Hawaii and Cabo San Lucas.

She loved animals and shopping on QVC and Amazon.

Joyce will be terribly missed because she had so much love to give.

She is survived by her husband, Dwight Henson, and daughters, Heather (John) Hackett and Shana Rose.

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

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially her nurse Melissa, and her aides, Peggy and Julie.

Joan G. Higley

Joan G. (Trexler) Higley, 90, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, June 26, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, June 29, 2020, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush St., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. Monday,  at the church, where due to the Covid 19 pandemic, masks will be required.  Rev. David Schatz will officiate. Mass will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory Facebook page for those unable to attend. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery, 2736 Windsor Avenue.

Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque.

Joan was born May 30, 1930 in Dubuque, the youngest daughter of Walter A. and Pearl (Nagle) Trexler. She attended the former Visitation Academy Catholic girls’ high school and graduated from Clarke College in 1948.

She worked at the Dubuque Carnegie-Stout Public Library, adjacent to the Trexler family home on Bluff St.

Joan married John W. Higley on May 15, 1954, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. They were married 32 years before John’s death in 1986.  After they married, Joan settled into her role as devoted wife and mother of Mark and Ann. Joan was an active volunteer for a number of non-profit organizations for many years, including the Visiting Nurse Association, Friends of the Mines of Spain, the Mississippi Trails Hiking Club, the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Joan was a faithful member of St. Columbkille Parish for over 66 years.

Joan enjoyed boating, hiking, and traveled throughout the world.   She spent many summers visiting the family cabin on the Minnesota Whitefish chain of lakes.  She was an avid golf and tennis player, and a longtime member of the Dubuque Golf & Country Club.  Joan will be remembered for her artwork, gardening skills, proficiency at contract bridge, and her unconditional support and love of her two grandchildren.

Joan is survived by her two children Mark, of Dubuque, and Ann (Bob) Wolfe, of Bloomington, MN and their children, Elizabeth “Lizzy” and Austin.

In addition to her husband, Joan was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Constance “Connie” Schockemoehl and Carol Hagerty, her longtime friend and companion Eugene Gratz, and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Columbkille Church and Stonehill Care Center.

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

The Higley family wishes to extend a special thank-you to the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and 24-Hour Care Home Health Agency, and to Joan’s long-time personal care aide, Danguole Abierne, for all of their wonderful care and support.

Sheila M. Hines

Sheila Mary (Becker) Hines, 73, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2020 at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital.

A funeral service celebrating Sheila’s life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. at the funeral home until time of service. We remind everyone to practice the social distancing guidelines. If you are unable to attend, a live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral homes Facebook page. Burial will be at a later date on her mother’s grave in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Sheila was born July 21, 1946, in Dubuque, the daughter of Alfred and Marie (Lutgen) Becker. She married Delbert Hines on July 29, 1964.

Sheila was a kind soul who lived for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a genuinely selfless and compassionate person who put the needs of others before herself. Sheila and her beloved husband adopted two grandchildren and one great grandchild. Sheila loved spending time with her family, celebrating the holidays, and, in years past, bowling with her teammates. She adored Christmas, Santa Claus, and Snowmen, decorating her house with countless prized figures every year and filling it with joy. She was an avid Cowboys, Cubs, and Elvis fan. Sheila will be missed dearly by all those who loved her.

Sheila is survived by her husband, Delbert; her children, Tammy (Dave) Becker, Billy Jo Hines, Tara Jones, Jolene Hines, and Jennifer Hines; her grandchildren, Stacey (Steve) Ortman, Tracey Becker, Nichole Becker, Jacob (Brittney) Jones, Cory Jones, Austin Jones, Mercedes Hines, Chevelle (Mitchell) Schmitt, and Madison Hines; her great grandchildren, Adrianna Becker, Gavin Lee Becker, Sydney Ortman, Eli Hines, and Jack and Amelia; and her siblings, Bev (William) White, Allen (Kim) Becker, and Stevie Becker.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Marie Becker; a brother, Lawrence “Skip” Becker; her in-laws, Sylven and Alyce Hines; a brother-in-law, Sidney Hines; two sisters-in-law, Gloria Hines and Beverly Frommelt; and a son-in-law, Matthew Kettmann.

The family wishes to thank the 5^th floor nurses and staff at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital for all their care and kindness they gave to Sheila.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Robert Massey

Robert (Bob) Massey, 88, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at home with family by his side.

Verna L. Digman

Verna Lee Digman, 88, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, June 25, 2020, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 pm Monday, June 29, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Tuesday from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday, June 30, 2020, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Verna Lee was born January 17, 1932, in Petersburg, Iowa the daughter of Hugo and Regina (Deutmeyer) Funke.  She married Edward Digman on April 21, 1952, in Dyersville and together they enjoyed raising their family and farming southeast of Dyersville.  Verna Lee also worked as a lunch lady at Xavier Grade School for many years. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting doilies, baking cookies, playing cards and dominoes with friends.  She could mend any garment.  Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were the top priority in life and gathering and sharing a meal was very important to her.

Survivors include her children: JoAnn (Mike) Koelker and Mary Kay (Mike) MacDonald, both of Dyersville, Sharon (Dale) Menke, of New Vienna and Jeff (Karen) Digman of Dyersville; 10 grandchildren: Jesse (Molly) Koelker, Shelli (Scott) Wilson and Matt (Lindsay) Koelker, Audrey (Scot) Moenck and Rachel (William) Bean, Katie (Mike) Hayes, Terry (Jessie) Menke and Brittany (Travis) Hoefler and Josh (Jessica) Digman and Nathalie Digman; 18 great grandchildren; siblings: Lois (Artie) Kern, Theresa Schindler and Darlene (Wayne) Wegmann, all of Dyersville; in-laws: Janet Funke and Karen Funke, both of Dyersville and Lawrence Lansing of New Vienna, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Eddie in 1999, a son, Larry in 1971, parents-in-law, Anton and Mary Digman; siblings: Dorothy (Leo) Mensen, Janice (Laverne) Mensen, Rita Lansing, Leon Funke, Mary Lou Funke and Floyd Funke; in-laws: Charlie Schindler, Johnny Digman, Ralph (Alice) Digman, and Helen (Eugene) Steffensmeier.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center for the compassionate care and dedication during this difficult time.

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

Timothy J. Walters

Timothy J. Walters, 34, of Dubuque, Iowa died on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at home surrounded by his family.

A visitation will be held from 2-6 pm, Saturday, June 27, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Timothy was born on April 7, 1986 in Decorah, Iowa, the son of John T. and Rebecca (Wilder) Walters Sr.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Timothy was an avid gamer who enjoyed online gaming as well as playing D&D with his friends or cards with the family.  He loved listening to country music and different podcasts that “made him think”.  Timothy got great joy out of picking on his friends and family; he loved making people around him laugh.

Timothy always worked in retail and really enjoyed meeting and talking to everyone he came across.

He is survived by his parents, John T. and Rebecca, of Dubuque; brother, J.T. Walters Jr., of Dubuque and sister, Courtney (Jon) Ewing, of Carroll, Iowa; niece, Rachel L. Walters-Davis, of Dubuque; aunts and uncles, James Walters, of Dubuque, Sandy (Connie) George, of Austin, TX, Monty (Denise) Wilder, of Decorah, IA., Cindy Remik, of Decorah, IA., Barb (Ken) Upton, of Postville, IA., Kris (Gene) Smith, of Calmar, IA., and Melissa (Sean) Goering, of Lucas, IA; many cousins; and his black lab, Bella.

He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Leo; paternal grandparents, John Francis and Ina Lee (Still) Walters; maternal grandparents, James Myran and Phyllis Jean (Ashbacher) Wilder; aunt, Deborah Lee Walters; and uncle, Mike Remik.

Memorials may be made to the family.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department.

Raymond J. Leppert

Raymond John Leppert, 77, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at home surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque with “Reflections by Jenny Bodensteiner”. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque, where military honors will be accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Visitation is from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Social distancing guidelines as suggested by Federal and State guidelines will be followed. Face masks are suggested.

Ray was born on April 10, 1943 in Dubuque, the son of Raymond Francis and Rita Mae (Duehr) Leppert. He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School. Ray was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U. S. Army Co A 2d Bn 11th Inf.

He owned and operated Leppert’s A1 Shoe Repair prior to his employment with Eagle Window and Door Company from where he retired.

Ray enjoyed bowling and golfing.

Surviving are three children, Raymond F. (Mary) Leppert of Dubuque, Richard J. (Cindy) Leppert of Bernard, IA and Cathy A. Campbell of Dubuque; 11-grandchildren, Adam, Aundrea, Heather, Joseph, Ashley, Josh, Richie (Hayley), Jessica, Nikki (Dan), Rourke and Connor; and 10 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Dave (Cheri) Leppert, Mike (Dorothy) Leppert, Mary Jane (Mike) Lamey, and Gerry (Brenda) Leppert.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Rita Leppert.

Ray’s family wishes to give thanks to his special friends, Ben and Diane Anderson, 24 Hours Home Care and the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care given to their father and grandfather.

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

James L. Arterberry

James L. “Jim” Arterberry, 74, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa, from injuries received in a vehicle/pedestrian accident.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation and burial will be at a later date.

James Lee Arterberry was born on August 31, 1945 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Orville and Mary (McHugh) Arterberry.  He was a 1967 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge.  He married Arlett Johnson on February 14, 1982 in Andrew, Iowa.

“Jim” had first worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa.  He then worked at Rasmussen Motor Company in Maquoketa as a mechanic and later Brad Deery Motors as a detailer.  He then transported mobile homes for four years.  Lastly, he retired in 2015 from T & J Manufacturing in Maquoketa.

“Jim” enjoyed fishing, camping, watching his favorite tv shows including NCIS and “house flipper” shows, and working on cars and trucks.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Arlett Arterberry of Maquoketa, IA; a daughter Christie (Jason) Draper of Maquoketa, IA; step-children, Amanda List of IN, and Brian Jordan of Bellevue, IA; 8 grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Summers of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Jeffery, and a brother Larry.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a James L. “Jim” Arterberry memorial fund has been established.

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

James R. Boyer

James R. “Jim” Boyer, 81, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at home.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Social distancing will be required per Federal and State guidelines. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 29, 2020 at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA, where military honors will be accorded by members of Dubuque American Legion Post # 6 and Amvets Post # 13.

Jim was born on November 13, 1938 in Dubuque, the son of Joseph and Freda (Ehrlich) Boyer. He was a 1957 graduate of Loras Academy. On November 29, 1968 he was united in marriage to Jean M. Wolf in Galena, IL. They were blessed with 51 years of marriage.
Jim joined the U. S. Army after graduation where he spent 10 years. He was a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division with service all over the world. He was a Vietnam veteran having served two tours of duty in Vietnam.

He was a member of The Amvets Post # 3 of Dubuque for 48 years and had been Provost Marshall for all that time. Currently he was Commander of Post # 3. Also he served as Iowa State Amvet District Commander for the 3rd district and had been committee person for the Iowa State Amvets Service Foundation. Jim was a member of American Legion Post #6 in Dubuque. He was also involved with the Tri-State Veterans Memorial Association during the construction of “The Battle Bows” in Marshall Park.

Jim was a member of Sheet Metal Workers Local # 91 Union for 40 years, with employment in most local shops and sheet metal shops throughout the country, retiring in January 2001.

He loved to garden and became an Illinois Master Gardner under the University of Illinois Extension program. There was a constant rivalry between him and a special friend as to who had the first and largest produce. Excesses always went to the family and friends.

Surviving is his wife, Jean; two sons, Jim (Katie) Boyer of Dubuque, IA, and Steve (Amy) Boyer of East Dubuque, IL; five precious grandchildren, Layne, Levi, Sienna, Veronika and Donovan; his sisters, Mary Schmitt of Dubuque and Carol (Mike) Murwin of West Des Moines, IA, brother, Mike Boyer of Dubuque; sisters-in-law, Jean Boyer of Milwaukee, Oregon, Beth Ward of Dubuque, Ann Wolf of Lake Placid, FL; brother-in-law, Ron (Judy) Wolf of Dubuque and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Freda; siblings, Norman, Joseph and Arthur; his in-laws, Ivan and Anita Wolf; sisters-in-law, Betty Boyer, Rowenna Boyer; brothers-in-law, William Wolf and Jerry Schmitt.

Jean and sons wish to extend thanks to the many Doctors at Medical Associates Clinic, the many Doctors at the Iowa City Veterans Hospital and a special thanks to so many at Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care and compassion given to Jim and his family. “These are angels on earth.”

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

Jean Ellen (Eggers) Rockwell

Jean Ellen (Eggers) Rockwell, 87, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2020.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Friday, June 26, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue. Family will greet friends 9:30 am until service time also Friday at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue. Funeral Services will be live broadcast on Bellevue Cable Channel 38 and will be uploaded on SaintJohn Devotion YouTube Channel following the services. It is recommended to utilize masks during the visitation at the funeral home and at the funeral service and that you practice social distancing due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Jean Ellen’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com. If you choose to give a memorial in Jean Ellen’s memory please send it to Hachmann Funeral Home at 100 N. 6th St., Bellevue, IA 52031, c/o Jean Ellen’s Family.

Jean Ellen was born March 17, 1933 the daughter of Arthur H. and Rosella (Felderman) Eggers south of Bellevue on the family farm. She graduated from Bellevue Community High School in 1951 and still to this day has many close and dear friends from her class. Jean Ellen married Almon “Rocky” Rockwell on April 15, 1956, he passed on January 19, 1995.

She worked in the family’s general store in Emeline, Iowa and in the Jackson County Clerk of Courts Office.

Jean Ellen was passionate when it came to playing Canasta and enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her son, Kevin Rockwell; 5 grandchildren, Nicole (Steve) Mooney, Ryan Elkins, Trevor (Amber) Rockwell, Whitney (Will) Heister, and Erik (Jill) Rockwell; 7 great-grandchildren, Clara, Ella Jean, Arthur and Campbell Rockwell, Abigail Jean and Noah Heister, and Sydney Mooney; a sister in-law, Norva Beaver; close (family), Greta, Dick, Peg, and Faye; and her “Angel” Dialysis Drivers; she is also survived by Curtis Rockwell and Kendra Elkins.

Jean Ellen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter in-law, Sandra Rockwell; a sister, Arlene (Harlan) Glaser; a sister in infancy, Virginia Mae, and an infant sister.

Madonna M. Varner

Madonna M. Varner, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 21, 2020 at her home.

A funeral mass celebrating her life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, June 26, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation will follow the visitation. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Madonna Mae Elsner was born in her grandparents, Charles and Lena Elsner’s farmhouse on January 18, 1941 near Iron Hill, Iowa in Jackson County. Her parents were Clarence and Thelma (Steines) Elsner. Her early education was spent at Esgate, Fulton, and Elwood. She graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1959. From the beginning she learned hard work, helping her mom in the garden, canning, cutting corn off the cob, and washing fruit jars and lids. She also learned to bake and cook and twice a week would bake bread as well as clean the house. She started babysitting at 12 years old and while in high school had house cleaning jobs.

This hard work would carry over into adulthood as she first worked for the Garment Factory in Clinton until it burnt down and then moved to Maquoketa where she worked for Schultz’s Bros. in Maquoketa and lastly as a CNA and in the Housekeeping Department for over 43 years at Maquoketa Care Center until present.

Madonna married Donald Varner on May 3, 1960 in Davenport, Iowa. To this marriage were born: Deborah, Mark and Michael. They later divorced.

Madonna was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. She loved to dance and country music, especially George Strait. She was an avid fan of Elvis Presley. She enjoyed crocheting and spending time with her family, special friends, and her great-grandchildren, Jentry, Jensyn, Langston, Kaley and Charlotte.

Those left to honor his memory include her children, Deborah (Bill) Bowling of Maquoketa, IA, Mark (Jody) Varner of Maquoketa, IA, and Mike (Bridget) Varner of Maquoketa, IA; 5 granddaughters, Billie (Chad) Johnson, Sarah (Joe) Larkin, Jennifer Bowling, Aleshia (Matt) Abraham, Kacie Varner; 5 great-grandchildren, Jentry Johnson, Jensyn Johnson, Langston Larkin, Kaley Larkin and Charlotte Abraham; brothers, Leonard (Linda) Elsner of Calamus, IA, and Bill (Shirley) Elsner of Stetsonville, WI; and sisters, Irma (Fred) Meyer of Maquoketa, IA, Mary (Roger) Eichelberger of Muscatine, IA, Carolyn (Duane) Hansen of DeWitt, IA, and Jean Todtz of Goose Lake, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Thelma Elsner, paternal grandparents Charles and Lena Elsner and maternal grandparents William and Loretta Steines, and a great-granddaughter Jenner Jo Johnson.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Madonna Mae Varner memorial fund has been established.

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

Randy J. Shireman Jr.

Randy J. Shireman Jr., age 50 passed away on June 15, 2020 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his son and loving partner Lisa. Randy had been battling sickness for a few short months.

His strength will forever be unmatched, and stories will be passed down about the courage he possessed up until the very moment the Lord offered him rest.

Randy graduated from Central Alternative high School. He was a master carpenter and had spent the last several years building houses in Oregon where he and his family lived. He loved nature and enjoyed taking his son on hikes in the beautiful scenery of Oregon.

He touched many lives and he will be missed more than words can express. Randy is survived by his 8-year-old son Daniel; his loving partner Lisa; his brother Jeremy Shireman; and his mother and father Randy and Marie.

Family and friends may visit and share memories from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 26th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. We remind everyone to practice the social distancing guidelines.

There is a memorial fund established for his 8-year-old son Daniel. Donations can be directed to Dupaco Community Credit Union on JFK in the name of Randy Shireman.

Allen N. Errthum

Allen N. Errthum, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at the VA Hospital in Iowa City after a courageous battle with ALS.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 26th, 2020 at the funeral home with Deacon Bill Biver officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with full military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League and Tri-State Vietnam Veterans. We remind you to practice the social distancing guidelines and if you are unable to attend, a live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Allen was born on April 4, 1942 in Holy Cross, IA son of Frances (Hefel) and Leo Errthum. He attended Holy Cross High School and was drafted into the Army in November 1963. He was stationed in Fort Benning, Georgia then sent to the Carolinas where he trained with helicopters in the 5th Battalion, 11th Air Assault, 38th Artillery. He was deployed to Vietnam where he was in charge of a jeep and 2 radios in the Fire Direction Center. His battalion reached Vietnam before their supplies, so he and 5 other guys shared a jar of peanut butter and crackers. Allen was very proud of being a veteran.

He married the love of his life Carol Summer from Farley on September 28, 1968. They have one daughter, Rachel. He loved watching Rachel play sports. He and Carol followed her career all over the country. He was a proud father and loving husband.

Allen worked for John Deere for 31-1/2 years, retiring at 50. He belonged to the UAW Local 94. He was an over-the-road semi driver for many years after John Deere, and drove for a few local trucking companies out of Dubuque lastly with J & R Trucking. Carol would accompany him on some of those trips where they had many adventures and created a lifetime of memories. In his later years he helped out at Stone Cliff Winery with Nan and Bob Smith. Allen loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family. He was a great storyteller and always had a joke or something funny to say. His positive disposition carried on even after his diagnosis of ALS. He never stopped smiling.

He is survived by his wife Carol of over 51 years and one daughter, Rachel Errthum of Idaho Springs, CO. He is also survived by 7 siblings: Genevieve Pike Houston, TX; Mary Hayes, Glencoe, MN; Kathleen Rudebeck, Dallas, TX; Barb (John) Taylor, Holy Cross, IA; Jerome (Marlene) Errthum, Waupton, IA; Leon (Elaine) Errthum, Dubuque, IA; Ed (Deb) Errthum, Holy Cross, IA; and sister-in-law Phyllis Errthum of Holy Cross, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Errthum of Holy Cross; Nick and Carol Errthum of North Buena Vista; Donald and Carol Errthum of North Buena Vista; Ray Pike, Dick Hayes and Wayne Rudebeck.

The family would like to thank his home health Nurse and Occupational Therapist, Lynn Sutter and Cathy Schuman respectively, for their care and dedication during his battle with ALS, and the staff at the VA hospital in Iowa City for all their care and support. He will be missed by his kitty, “Peanut” that brought him so much joy.

In lieu of flowers an Allen Errthum memorial fund has been established.