Obituaries Archive

David J. Frommelt

David J. Frommelt, age 61, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 30, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Dave’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dave’s family.

Dave was born on June 3, 1963, in Iowa City, IA, a son to David C. and Jeanie L. (Kelly) Frommelt.  He was blessed with a kind heart and a generous spirit which he carried faithfully throughout his entire life.  Dave was a roofer by trade and spent many years working alongside his friends at Windco Roofing, but in his spare time you could easily find him wrenching on his next project or helping a friend with their mechanical needs.  Dave was always there to assist anyone who needed help and when it came to family and friends, the word no didn’t ever exist in his vocabulary.  In his free-time, Dave always took every opportunity to catch any local stockcar races and if a NASCAR race was on the television, his recliner was sure to be occupied for the next couple of hours.  He enjoyed all things cars and only the chance to grab his fishing pole could come in at a close second.  Dave did his absolute best to give more than he ever took and all who knew and loved him were fully aware of this reality.  It has been heartbreaking to witness Dave fight such a long and courageous battle with cancer and we can thankfully find some peace in knowing that his earthly challenges are finally over.  He never surrendered in either body or spirit over the last few years and he has surely left a positive example in the hearts and minds of everyone around him.  Thank you, Dave, for all of the love you shared with the world around you, for always being willing to help anyone in need, and for leaving behind a legacy that we could all learn from.  May you now enjoy eternal peace in the loving arms of your Savior as we wait patiently to see your heartfelt smile once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Dave include,

his two sons,
Joshua D. Paar, Dubuque, IA,
and Bryson J. Frommelt, Guttenberg, IA;

his parents,
David (Jeanie) Frommelt, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Jillan (Richard) Linsey, Dubuque, IA,
Robert (Cheryl) Frommelt, Naperville, IL,
Michael (Laura) Frommelt, Baldwin, IA,
Thomas Frommelt, Des Moines, IA,
Barbara Hickey, Dubuque, IA,
Emmy Jo Gaulke, Dubuque, IA,
and William Campbell, St. Donatus, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Dave was preceded in death by his grandparents, James (Mary Jane) Kelly and Anthony (Virginia) Frommelt; Joshua’s mother, Laura Paar; and two uncles, George Frommelt and Thomas Frommelt.

Dave’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Toby L. Rhodes

Toby Lynn Rhodes, age 53, of LaGrange, IN passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Parkview LaGrange Hospital in LaGrange, IN.

Mr. Rhodes was born on August 1, 1971 in Dubuque, IA. He graduated from High School in Dubuque, IA then continued his education at a community college in Dubuque, IA. He played college baseball and obtained an associate’s degree while in Dubuque, IA.

For over 25 years he worked for Pizza Hut as a general manager in LaGrange, IN. After his career with Pizza Hut, he helped his brother for a year and a half open a restaurant back in Dubuque, IA.  He then came back to Shipshewana, IN and was employed by Yoder’s Hardware for 3 years.  Then he was recently employed by Cottin’s Hardware in Sturgis, MI for nearly a year.

On January 7, 2017, he married Jamie Mullinix at the American Legion in LaGrange, IN.  Toby was keen on tending to his yard, mowing, and making sure it was kept nice and tidy all while wearing his standard “mowing outfit.”  He loved music and you could typically catch him dancing goofy and listening to Michael Jackson, Usher, or Phil Collins.  Toby was also an excellent cook but as one could imagine after spending 25 years with a pizza company, Toby specialized in making pizzas at home.

He enjoyed golfing, being goofy, and joking around.  Toby was well known within the community due to his 25 years at Pizza Hut and he also loved visiting and catching up with the customers as they would come in for a good meal.  He will be deeply missed by those who knew him and loved him.

Survivors include:
Wife, Jamie Rhodes of LaGrange, IN.
Mother, Sue Elliott of Dubuque, IA.
Daughter, Ali and Hunter Sams of Wolcottville, IN.
Son, Nathan and Haley Smith of Fort Wayne, IN.
Son, Liam Rhodes of LaGrange, IN.
Daughter, Hailey Rhodes of LaGrange, IN.
Daughter, Kinsley Rhodes of LaGrange, IN.
Grandchildren, Henley Smith and Layton Sams.
Brother, Jessie and Heather Elliott of Dubuque, IA.
Brother, Ted and Robyn Oberhauser of LaPorte City, IA.
Nieces and Nephews, Austin, Kiley, Annabelle, and Emery Elliott.
Many other surviving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Toby was preceded in death by his grandparents, Virginia and Joseph Zahina.

Visitation were held on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 4:00pm-7:00pm at Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 603 South Detroit Street, LaGrange, IN 46795.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 11am at Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 603 South Detroit Street, LaGrange, IN 46795.

Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be directed to the family for final expenses.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Don Vogt

Don Vogt, 74, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in his sleep early on the morning of Friday, January 24, 2025, in Cudjoe Key, Florida where he was vacationing.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, February 3, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Don will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Don was born October 4, 1950, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Joseph and Martina (Winter) Vogt. He was the oldest of four siblings, Robert, Joseph, and Judy.

Don attended Sacred Heart School and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1968. Don graduated from Loras College in 1973 and completed a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Iowa.

Don spent his career working for the city of Dubuque, first as the Assistant Street Superintendent, then he was promoted to the Public Works Director. He retired on April 30, 2016.  Don was a part of the planning team for the Iowa Recycling and Solid Waste conference for many years. He served as the chair of the committee, as well as, the key contact for the exhibitors. He was also on the Board of Directors for the Iowa Society of Solid Waste Operations, a state chapter for the Solid Waste Association of North America. He served as secretary of that group for several years. He also was a member of the American Public Works Association.

Don married Mary Jo Vogt (Kramer) on June 19, 1976.  They had two daughters, Jennifer and Hillary. Don loved spending time with his family, enjoying family vacations to Colorado, Utah and Mexico. He was a passionate reader and lover of history. He was active in USS Swimming and volunteered with the DASH swim team, officiating at many meets. Don also greatly enjoyed gardening, fishing, golf, hunting and spending time outdoors. He was a lifelong New York Yankees fan. He spent his life in Dubuque where he developed lasting friendships and community. After retirement, he and Mary Jo enjoyed visiting their daughters and grandchildren in Salt Lake City, Utah and Des Moines, Iowa. Lena, Dylan, Quinn and Milo were the great joys of his life.

He greatly enjoyed getting away from cold Iowa winters to the sunny shores of the Florida Keys for a month each January, which is where he peacefully passed away.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jo Vogt; two daughters, Jennifer (Jeremy Magrath) Vogt and Hillary (Scott Erwin) Vogt; three granddaughters, Lena Magrath, Dylan Magrath, and Quinn Erwin; one grandson, Milo Erwin; two brothers, Robert (Jean) Vogt and Joseph (Sherri) Vogt; and one sister, Judy (David) Tully; in-laws, Tom (Sue) Kramer, Kathy (Bob) Brosius and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws Richard and Lee Kramer.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be given to the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for the Koi Pond.

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

David E. Cue

David E. Cue, age 76, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 27, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor David’s life, at a later date a family service will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving David’s family.

David was born on March 9, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Donald E and Arlene E. (Schoenthal) Cue.  He attended Dubuque Senior High School before heading off to make his career in the U.S. Navy.  David honorably served his country during the Vietnam War and invested over 26 years in the Navy before retiring and spending another 23 years with QED as a contractor for the U.S. Navy.  David lived and breathed military life and was stationed on many ships throughout the world, but never forget his time aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise.  After all of his years it was surprising to discover that war didn’t kill David, but that terrible enemy cancer finally did find a way.

David was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jackie Schroeder, on March 13, 1982.  The couple was blessed with many wonderful years together until she was sadly called home ahead of him on March 30, 2013.

In his free-time and with the encouragement of his good friend, Joe Viola and Jackie’s son, Wade, he could be found working on his ’55 Chevy.  David had an affinity for classic cars and when it came to his own truck, there were no limits to the amounts of time and money that were going to be spent on his dream truck.

We are all going to miss David and his absence will surely leave a void which could never truly be healed.  We are grateful for the years the Lord was kind enough to share him with us and will forever treasure all of the wonderful memories he leaves behind.  Thank you, David, for all that you gave and for never asking for anything in return and may the Lord now bless you and keep you in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of David include,

Jackie’s son,
Wade Adams, Dubuque, Iowa, whom David loved as his own;

his siblings,
Karen Ann (Karl) Fleege, Dubuque, IA,
Don (Renee) Cue, Tucson, AZ,
Jeffrey (Ginger) Cue, Peosta, IA,
Jim (Nancy) Bauch, Stuart, IA,
Tim Cue, Hazel Green, WI,
Kevin (Dana) Cue, Hazel Green, WI,
and Bill (Sarah) Cue, Hazel Green, WI;

his dear friend,
Karen Stuntz, Virginia Beach, VA;

Also, his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Don (Karen) Cue and Arlene Cue Fisher; his siblings, Sharon Atkins, Steven Cue and Kathy Wild; and his good friend, Joe Viola.

David’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Thomas J. Wunder

Thomas J. “T.J.” Wunder, age 53, of Waterloo, IA, formerly of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on January 29, 2025, at home.  To honor Tom’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street in Dubuque, with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship for one hour prior to the service at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on June 26, 1971, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Thomas G. and Mary Jane (Boge) Wunder.  He has spent his recent years working with the Waterloo Warehousing and Service Company and valued the many opportunities and friends he has made along the way.  Tom took great pride in all that he did and when it came to work, there was no exception.  In his free-time, Tom as an avid hunter and fisherman.  From an early age, he gained the necessary skills to acquire five trophy mounts throughout the years with his dad and brother always by his side.  In recent years, Tom has become an accomplished bow hunter as well and always enjoyed the camaraderie of the hunting group that is currently in its 55th year together.

As with many of us, life has not always been easy for Tom.  His fair share of trials and tribulations have surely made their way into his life, but truth be told, Tom became a better man on the other side of them all.  He eventually found his way in the world, developed a positive path to walk upon, and never looked back.  Making the difficult decisions daily was where Tom found true satisfaction and purpose.  It’s beyond tragic to have to say farewell for now to our dear father, son, brother, and uncle, but if there’s to be any peace for our hearts to lean into, it is the fact that Tom now knows all things.  He has met his Creator firsthand and in person and currently resides in eternal peace only waiting for us to join him in time.  Thank you, Tom, for reminding us all that life is not always an easy journey to navigate, but it is definitely a worthwhile one to learn and gain real joy through once we realize that each one of us must make his own way and we do not have to do it alone.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms Tom and may you rest in peace son; may you truly rest in peace today!

Those left to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his two children,
Sasha Ginter, Waterloo, IA,
and Jacob Ginter, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren;

his girlfriend,
Nicole Schmitz, Waterloo, IA;

his parents,
Tom (Mary Jane) Wunder, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Ray Wunder, Dubuque, IA,
Kelly Hayes, Dubuque, IA,
and Beverly (John) Chase, Iowa City, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his grandparents; and his brother-in-law, Jeff Hayes.

In lieu of flowers, a Thomas J. Wunder memorial fund has been established.

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

Barbara J. Milburn

Barbara J. “Barb” Milburn, 67, of Long Grove and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, January 28, 2025, at UnityPoint Health, Trinity Hospital, in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Born Barbara Jo Weirup on February 7, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa, she was the daughter of Vernon Leo and Patricia Ann (Bock) Weirup.  She graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1975 and her thirst for knowledge and helping others led her to pursue further education at Palmer College in Davenport, where she earned a Chiropractic Technician degree.

Barb’s work career began in the banking industry, where she worked at Baldwin Savings Bank and Maquoketa State Bank. Her passion for health and wellness later led her to a fulfilling career as a Chiropractic Technician, where she worked for several Chiropractic offices in the Quad Cities, most notably as a cherished member of the team at Hoover Chiropractic.

Barb’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a member of the Fireside Christian Church in Park View, where she found great solace and community. Her involvement in Bible Study was not just a pastime but a deep commitment to growing in her faith and understanding.

Barb found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed playing board games and cards, and above all, Barb cherished the time spent with her family.

Barb’s legacy is carried on by her loving daughters, Stephanie (Matthew) Femrite of Des Moines, IA, and Kristen (Cal) Schreckengast of Cedar Rapids, IA; her mother, Patricia “Pat” Weirup of Maquoketa, IA; and siblings, Randy (Susan) Weirup and Brenda Lannom, both of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her father, Vernon Weirup, who passed away on January 7, 2014.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, February 3, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral beginning at 9:30 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the American Kidney Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

JoAnne M. Loeffelholz

JoAnne M. (Kraft) Loeffelholz, 64, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at home surrounded by her family after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish Rosary will be recited at 2:30 p.m. Friday. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Thomas Srenn officiating.  Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

JoAnne was born on February 8, 1960 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Leo and Helen (Jungblut) Kraft. She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1977. JoAnne married the love of her life, Donald Loeffelholz, on September 1, 1979 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque, IL with the first disco themed wedding reception in Dubuque.

JoAnne was the heart of her family, a woman whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. She dedicated her life to her husband, children and grandchildren, always putting them first and filling them with love, wisdom, and unwavering support. There was not one second of her children’s lives that they did not know they were loved. JoAnne made sure to tell her kids and grandkids every day how much she loved them. She always encouraged her children to dream big, work hard and chase their dreams, no matter how crazy they were.

JoAnne dedicated her life to education. While raising her children, she returned to college full time to pursue a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in education. She was a Special Education teacher at George Washington Middle School in Dubuque for 28 years, the entirety of her career. JoAnne believed deeply in the importance of serving others. She was a member of the East Dubuque Board for 16 years, volunteered with numerous community organizations and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

JoAnne loved to read, spend time in her garden and could be found enjoying friends and family, with a lunchbox in hand. She loved to go on adventures, flower shopping, taking trips during the summer to Presidential Museums and watching her Chicago Bears. Holidays and family events would not have been complete without gathering at Nana’s house.

Surviving is her husband, Don (Big Fish); and their four children Amanda (Brandon) Tidwell of Moline, IL, Donald (DJ) Loeffelholz of East Dubuque, IL, Alaina (Ray) Gansemer of Asbury, IA and Joseph (Courtney) Loeffelholz of Galena, IL; 5 grandchildren, Gavin Loeffelholz, LilianaTidwell, Carter Tidwell, Ellison Gansemer and Broderick Gansemer. Also surviving are sisters Laura (Nick) Fiel of Ankeny, IA, Carrie (Dr. Greg) del Campo of San Diego, CA, Marty (Honorable Ron) Stadtmueller of San Diego, CA; four brothers Steve (Linda) Kraft of Dubuque, IA, Ted (Trish) Kraft of Cedar Rapids, IA, John (Nicole) Kraft of Peosta, IA and Jason Kraft of Dallas, TX.

JoAnne was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Helen Kraft, and her sister, Jolene Kraft.

The family of JoAnne would like to thank Dr. Reith, Dr. Miller, Dr. Anderson and all of the nurses and staff at The University of Iowa Hospitals, Dr. Engleman and Tammy Noonan of the MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, the 2nd floor staff of Finley’s Rehab Center, and Jess and Stephanie from Hospice Dubuque for all of their care and kindness over the last year.

JoAnne’s children would like to thank their dad, Don, for showing their mom unconditional love for the last 45 years and for giving her the gift of dignity and never leaving her side as she fought so hard the last year.

In lieu of flowers, a JoAnne Loeffelholz memorial fund has been established.

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

Merlin Capesius Jr.

Merlin “Butch” Capesius Jr., 82, of Bettendorf, Iowa, formerly of La Motte, Iowa, passed away on January 27, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday February 1, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church with Msgr. Toale officiating. The burial will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery in La Motte, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Merlin was born on October 3, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Merlin and Rita (Weber) Capesius Sr. He attended and graduated from school in La Motte. Butch worked at International Harvester in Moline, Illinois until its closure, and then for the Davenport School District until his retirement. Butch loved his family very much and loved spending as much time with them as possible. He enjoyed lots of years spending time golfing with his brother Jim and son Dean. He enjoyed going to Cindy and Christy’s basketball games from grade school through college. He loved to share laughs and a good game of euchre. He had a generous spirit and would do anything to help others.

Butch is survived by his son Dean (Bridget) Capesius of Dyersville, Iowa, daughters Cindy (Sam) Cerneka of Cary, North Carolina, and Christy Janeliunas of Moline, Illinois, grandchildren Olivia, Lucy, and Sophia Cerneka, all of Cary, North Carolina, and Abigail (special friend Kole Stach) of Kewanee, Illinois, step-grandchildren Lauren, Jeremy, and Natalie Baiocci of Chicago, Illinois, siblings Carol (Richard) Watters, Sharon (Steven) Schumacher, Susan (Tim) Flogel, Barb (Dan) Gleason, and sister-in-law Mary Capesius.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Sharon, his parents, brothers James Capesius and Kenneth Capesius, sister Mary Jo (Steve) Becker, and nephew Robert Watters.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Christy and Abigail Janeliunas for their tireless and constant care for Butch. Also special thank you to Genesis Hospice of Moline for their outstanding love and care they gave our father.

In lieu flowers donations may be made to St. Jude, an organization Butch faithfully supported.

Beverly Jordan

Beverly (Waldron) Jordan, 90 Years, of Dubuque, died on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Beverly will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Father Bob Gross as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Ayrshire, IA, at a later date.

Beverly was born at her home in Ayrshire on April 30, 1934, the daughter of Ray and Clara (Hanish) Waldron. On February 4, 1967, she married Robert J. Jordan in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on July 30, 2020.

Beverly graduated from Silver Lake High School in Ayrshire, IA in 1951. Beverly received a full scholarship to St. Mary of the Woods from the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Music with a minor in Italian and English in 1955. After graduation, she starting teaching in Laurens, Spencer, Whittemore, Cedar Rapids, and finally in Dubuque until retiring from teaching in 1974. Beverly enjoyed running her own garden and greenhouse for the last 50 years. She was an active member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Survivors include her two children, William (Susan) Jordan of Dubuque, and Jackie (Sharat) Jordan-Ramaraju of Bettendorf, IA; three step-children, Pat (Lucy) Jordan of Omaha, NE, Jim (Sue) Jordan of Omaha, NE, and Rosemary Jordan of Bettendorf, IA; 11 grandchildren, Allison, Adam, William, Christopher, Nikhil, Sophia, Jason, Jennifer, Celeste, Austin, and Greg; sister-in-law, Kay Waldron of Ayrshire, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Beverly was preceded in death by her three siblings, Peter Waldron, Edward Waldron, and Sharon Schenatzki; and her step-son, Jon Jordan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque, for their amazing care. Her neighbor, Barb Trifone, St. Columbkille volunteers, and those who extended her friendship.

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

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

Samuel J. Schmelzer

Samuel Joseph Schmelzer, 76, of Asbury, IA passed away on January 25, 2025 at Grand Meadows Senior Living surrounded by his immediate family.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. in Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at The Church of the Resurrection where Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until the time of Mass. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery where Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #6 of Dubuque.

Samuel was born on March 24, 1948, the son of Joseph and Anita (Berns) Schmelzer, and he was raised on the family farm near Garnavillo, IA. Sam was the oldest of 13 children. He graduated from Garnavillo High School in 1966 and attended UW-Platteville for 1 year. He enlisted in the U.S. Army completing his Basic Training at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. Sergeant Schmelzer served as a Medic, doing two Tours in Vietnam during his three years of service in the U.S. Army. He valued his travel throughout Southeast Asia, Australia, Hawaii, and Europe.

He was united in marriage to Sarah Tauke on November 24, 1972. Together they adopted two daughters, Amy Jin from Korea and Angela from within the State of Iowa.

Sam was employed by Deere and Co. for 30 years where he primarily focused on CNC machining, quality control, and engine assembly.  Following his time at Deere, he was employed by the City of Dubuque Parks Dept. for 10 years.

He enjoyed watching sports and was always present at his daughters’ activities. He was a family man and took great pride in both his children and his grandsons.

He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection where he also volunteered in numerous capacities. Sam also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, Reflections in the Park, Hospice of Dubuque, Hurricane Katrina Relief Effort, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and the Veterans Freedom Center. Sam was privileged to go on an Honor Flight in 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah; His daughters, Amy Jin Schmelzer of Dubuque, and Angie (Jason) Steffen of Cedar Falls; grandchildren, Parker and Mason Steffen of Cedar Falls; siblings, Mary Schmelzer of Iowa City, Mike (Sharon) Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Tom (Diane) Schmelzer of Edgewood, Tim (Kathy) Schmelzer of Elkader, Margaret (Bruce) Matt of Lone Tree, Susan Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Anna (Dave) Elder of Iowa City, Donna (Kurt) Franks of Postville, Ellen (Joe) Claeys of Iowa City, Laurie (Jim) Orth of Lewiston MN.; sisters-in-law Nancy Schmelzer of Elkader, Lois Tauke of Cascade; and many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Dan Schmelzer and Tony Schmelzer; his father and mother-in-law Clete and Jeanette Tauke; and brother-in-law, Bob Tauke.

The family wishes to thank the Grand Meadows community, Hospice of Dubuque, and all Sam’s friends and family for their support.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be directed to Church of the Resurrection, Veterans Freedom Center, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Lynn Feltes

Lynn Strohmeyer Feltes, 77, of Dubuque died on January 27, 2025 at 10:56 am.  Visitation will be from 9:15 to 10:15 am Saturday, February 1, 2025 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church followed by a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday at 10:30.

She is survived by her husband, David Feltes; her four children, Lisa Feltes, Jim (Kimberly) Feltes, John (Triska) Feltes and Dan (Erin) Feltes; eight grandchildren; her sister, Karen (Roger) Stromeyer Earle and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, LaVerne “Bill” and Rita Neyens Strohmeyer.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

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

Duane A. Priebe

Duane Allen Priebe, 90, of Dubuque, IA,  passed away on January 22, 2025 in the company of family and friends.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025 at Wartburg Seminary, 333 Wartburg Pl, Dubuque, IA 52003.

An additional visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday February 1, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. A Funeral Service will start following the visitation at 10:30 a.m. at the Church with Pastor Will Layton officiating. He will be reunited with his beloved wife to rest eternally together at the Church cemetery. The Funeral Service will be livestreamed via the church’s FaceBook page. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Duane was born on June 29th, 1934, in Rhinelander, WI, to Christlieb and Lila Priebe, Duane grew up in Rhinelander and St. Paul before his family finally settled in Seattle, WA. He attended the University of Washington where his passion for aviation motivated him to become a private pilot. His deep curiosity about the workings of the universe led him to earn his BS in physics and sparked a love for the natural world, hiking in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest and working as a fire lookout for the forest service.

After a year working as an Aero Research Engineer for NASA, he felt called to serve in the church. A committed physicist, Duane chose to focus his study of the universe through theology, earning his B.D. in 1961 from Luther Seminary and his Doctor of Theology in 1965 from the School of Theology at Claremont.

After a brief stint as pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Garrison, North Dakota, and Director of the Great Plains Institute of Theology, Western North Dakota District, American Lutheran Church, he began what would become a 47-year term of service to Wartburg Seminary, and the global Christian community.

Duane Traveled to Germany where he studied under Wolfhart Pannenberg (later translating Pannenberg’s Jesus: God and Man), making Pannenberg’s work available to the English-speaking world. He ventured to Namibia, Asia, South America and his favorite, Papua New Guinea exploring the value of Christian theology in different cultural contexts. He developed a reputation among his colleagues as a Christ-centered mystic who taught by surgically querying his students. The light and love of God always shown through him, bringing grace to everyone he knew.

On August 7 th , 1960, Duane married his true love, Kathleen McKillop, who shared his adventures (sometimes more willingly than others) for 57 years. He was a caring father to Christopher and David, as well as their respective wives, Jerri and Amy. He was a loving grandfather to Andrew, Christopher (Meghan), Kytana (Katie), and Alyssa (Craig). He even met his great-grandchildren, Sophie and Avery.

Bobby Lee Hattula

Bobby Lee Hattula, 65, of Dubuque, IA, passed away January 24, 2025.

A visitation will be held Friday January 31, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Dubuque, IA, a Funeral Service will follow at 12:30 p.m. with Rev. Jonathan Crawford officiating. Burial and Military Honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6 to follow at Linwood Cemetery.

He was born on March 25, 1959, in Chicago, IL, to Carl and Margaret (Kramer) Hattula. He married Diana Witt on October 12, 1979, in Freeport, IL.

Bobby worked for the Packing House Sanitation until it’s closure. He owned and operated TRUFORM Construction and Hauling. He served many residents of Dubuque County until his retirement. He served in the US Navy- Great Lakes.

Bobby was a master of music, he wrote over 200 songs, recorded many, and played the guitar like no other. He played with great emotion. He taught guitar lessons and played the banjo, mandolin, bass and piano. He was a recording artist with great hits like “Mayfly”, “Thinking and Drinking”, “Tell Me Lady” and numerous others. Bobby played in such bands as Maximum Volume, Rock and Roar, and The OL’Folkies as a lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. He played at various events, bars, and open jams in the tri-state area. He loved a campfire and music. He also had a gift of woodworking, he could make anything out of wood, including many of the guitars he played. Bobby enjoyed gardening, working in the soil, fishing and anything relaxing that included the outdoors. He was an avid kayaker who enjoyed the atmosphere of nature, peace, and internal self-reflection. He worked hard and put his all into everything he did. He was a people person who always looked to help those in need.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years Diana; his children, Amanda Trotman, Heidi (TJ) Pickering, William (Jennifer Sheldon) Hattula; his grandchildren, Nickolas, Jackson, Maxwell, Alyssa, Bridget, and Abigail; his siblings, Mary, Pat, Karl, and John; his brother and sisters-in-law Rick and Sue Witt, Robert and Teri Elmer, David and Cathy Price, Chad and Barb Lessman, Willie and Tammy Love, Mike Witt, Randy and Sarah Witt, Nate and Stephanie Swalve; along with his many nieces and nephews and lifelong friends.

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents and stepdad Robert Hancock; his brothers, Charles and Bill; sisters, Sharon and Joy; in-laws, Richard and Darlene Witt; siblings-in-law Dwayne Paul, Carl Paterson, David Myer and Cynthia Witt; niece Deb Perkins; nephew Russell Paul, Larry and Tony Price, and Devon Lessman.

He leaves behind many musicians who kept a song in his heart.

In lieu of flowers a memorial for Bobby Hattula has been established.

The family would like to express a thank you to the Dubuque Fire Department, the Dubuque Police Department, Donna Kluesner and Leonard Funeral Home for their compassionate service.

Margaret E. Hayden

Margaret Emma Hayden, more commonly known as Marnie, was born March 13th, 1950, in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. She passed away on January 22nd, 2025, at the age of 74 in Dubuque, Iowa. She was the eldest child of Peter and Gertrude Birkett and is survived by her daughter, Lorna Meierbachtol, son-in-law Bernd Meierbachtol, and twin granddaughters Penelope and Amalia. Her siblings are William, Peter, David, Mary, and Thomas Birkett.

Marnie attended Hull University and almost had a career in law but plans changed when she met her future husband, Michael Hayden. They managed pubs in London together until their divorce in the early 1980s. In 1985 she immigrated to the United States and joined her family in Stamford, CT. She quickly established roots in the community and started work at a publishing company. Marnie’s next job took her to Nine West Group shoe company where she worked her way up from Administrative Assistant to Vice President of Facilities. She accomplished one of her greatest career achievements by moving the entire company from their headquarters in Stamford to a new location in White Plains, NY, an enormous undertaking. She also assisted in the relocation and closure of the US Shoe Group offices based in Ohio. Later she transitioned to a facilities role at International Paper, where she similarly undertook the challenging task to move their corporate offices from Connecticut to Tennessee. After her corporate career she focused on helping others, from caretaking her grandchildren in California to teaching English as a second language to working with young children in her adopted home of Dubuque.

Marnie was one of the kindest and welcoming people you’d ever meet. From being the consummate big sister to all her siblings, to her time in the south of France as an au pair, she doted on all children big and small. She adored all her nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and any baby she could get her hands on. Her infectious sense of humor assured you a follow-up quote or laugh whenever Monty Python or Fawlty Towers were involved. You would often find her reading, especially her favorites, fantasy and science fiction. She loved traveling to spend time with family in Europe, and also to her very favorite beach resort, the Pink Shell, in Fort Myers Beach, FL.

A funeral mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea in Stamford, CT on February 15th at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

Jesse J. Schiesl

Jesse James Schiesl, 39, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; setting sail on his final voyage listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Tuesday’s Gone,” while surrounded by his dearest family and friends.

To honor Jesse’s life, visitation will be on Friday, January 31st from 3:00pm – 7:00pm, followed by a sharing of cherished memories at 7:00pm at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. A prayer service will take place at 10:00a.m., Saturday, Feburary 1, 2025 at the funeral home, followed by a procession to Mount Olivet Cemetery where Jesse will be laid to rest.

Jesse was born on November 11th, 1985, in Dubuque, IA, to his parents, William and Patricia (Becker) Schiesl. He attended Eisenhower elementary and graduated from Hempstead High School, Class of 2004. Jesse was united in marriage to Brooke O’Malley on June 19, 2021. Together they welcomed a son, Landon William. Jesse was a devoted father, a beloved uncle, and a proud godfather who brought joy and love to everyone around him.

Jesse cherished his childhood friendships while also having a natural ability of making acquaintances with fellow coworkers and strangers wherever he went. As the king of fun and adventure, during his younger years, Jesse enjoyed playing hockey and spent the spring, summer, and fall riding his BMX bike; where he gained many lifelong friends. In the winters you could find him snowboarding or snowmobiling in the mountains. Summer months were spent in the sun as he captained his boat on the Mississippi River.

Jesse had a vibrant, outgoing personality. Before deciding which social event to attend, he would often ask his close friends, “Who’s all there?” He will be fondly remembered by his family, coworkers, and his lively social friend circle for his smile and laugh. He was truly a friend to all.

Jesse was a skilled craftsman and could do anything he put his mind to. He was extremely generous in sharing his talents with family and friends, always lending a helping hand. From an early age, Jesse knew he was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps and became an electrical lineman in 2005. Graduating from Northwest Iowa Community College, he was a proud union lineman with IBEW Local 55 for 18 years. Jesse worked on many electrical power infrastructure projects across the country, at times tethered from a helicopter, and proudly assisting in disaster relief projects restoring power to ravished communities.

Jesse is survived by his mother, Patti; and sister Sarah (Jake Sabers) Schiesl family. He is also survived by loving family and close friends, leaving behind cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of many.

Jesse was preceded in death by his father, William Schiesl, his grandparents Marcella & Francis Becker and James & Mary Jo Schiesl; uncles Richard Becker and Thomas Schiesl; and cousins Lindsey Becker, Mary Beth Schumacher, Christine Schumacher, and Timothy Schumacher.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mercy One Hospital & Staff, UIHC AirCare3 & Crew, the University of Iowa Hospital and Staff, and to Jesse’s lifelong friend, Alexis Becker for providing loving and compassionate medical care during his final journey home.

Heaven has gained a good one, Jesse will be sure to “light” it up.

In lieu of flowers, a Jesse Schiesl Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences can be left for family and friends at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.