Obituaries Archive

Steven A. Hefel

Steven A. “Steve” Hefel, age 68, of North Buena Vista, Iowa, was called home suddenly at 12:25 a.m., on Friday, July 24, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  To celebrate Steve’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista, Iowa.

Steve was born on May 10, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Albert and Dorothy (Curtis) Hefel Jr.

Steve attended grade school in North Buena Vista and went on to high school at Leo High School, West Dubuque High School, and finally graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  Steve was a jack of all trades, and was employed with the railroad, B&K Meats in Sherrill, Dubuque Stamp, John Deere Dubuque Works, ran his own business called Hefel’s Locker, FDL, Uelner Tool and Die, and Riley Construction, before going back to John Deere, from where he would eventually retire in May of 2015.

Steve met, and eventually married his soulmate, Judy Ploessl, on May 26, 1973, at St. Francis Church in Balltown, Iowa.  They were blessed to settle down and raise their 5 boys, and enjoy 47 years of wedded bliss together.  In his free time, Steve enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding and working on his motorcycle.  He loved landscaping and was extremely proud of his yard, strategically placing every rock.  Steve was an avid racing fan, he and Judy attended the Indy 500 every year for 30 years.  He also liked watching Westerns, and always had a bowl of popcorn on his lap, as he was a true popcorn aficionado.  Steve was also known for making his own homemade wine and brewing his own beer.  Steve was a very simple man who required nothing but friends, and could make a friend anywhere he went.  We are deeply saddened at losing Steve so unexpectedly in our daily lives, and our nightly bowl of popcorn will never be the same without him.  We miss you, love you, and look forward to the day we are all reunited again in Heaven.

Those left to cherish Steve’s memory include

his loving wife,
Judy Hefel, North Buena Vista, IA;

his 4 sons,
Craig Hefel, Davenport, IA,
Patrick (Amy) Hefel, Marion, IA,
Ricky (Christa) Hefel, Osterdock, IA
and Lucas Hefel, Dubuque, IA;

and his 16 grandchildren;
Olivia, Chloe, Allison, Peter, Alex, April, Kalkidan, Austin, Will, Sam, Kaleb, Eneasha, Brianna, Braden, Bryson and Aiden.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jeremy Hefel; and 2 brothers, Christopher Hefel and Clark Hefel.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Steve Hefel Family.

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

Roger M. Simon

Roger M. Simon, 67, of Farley, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2020, at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Private Visitation for Roger will be held on Friday, July 24, 2020 at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa. Anyone interested in sending memorials may send them to Reiff Funeral Home, Attention: Roger Simon Family at P.O. Box #99, Farley, Iowa, 52046.

A Private Mass of Christian burial for Roger will be held Saturday, July 25, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating and Rev. Tom McDermott concelebrating.   Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.  A Public Celebration of Life for Roger will be held following the burial at Noon, located at Simon’s Trucking at 920 Simon Dr. in Farley, Iowa.

He was born on November 28, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George M. and Mary (Hefel) Simon.  He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa.  Roger was a highly regarded businessman in Eastern Iowa having owned and operated Simon’s Trucking, Simon’s Cattle Company, BJ’s Truck Sales and Service, 300 Raceway, Simon’s Feed and Grain, Hopkinton Feed and Grain, Simon Sez Motorsports, and RJ Leasing Company.  Roger was a man who impacted many people because he dedicated his life to leaving a legacy. Not just in his business, but through his actions. He lived life to fulfill his family’s dreams and happiness. He set the bar for what a guy could do. He was always there to help out someone in need. Pay for your meal and help you on a rainy day. He was slow to judge and always there to listen. He will live on forever in the hearts of those he changed forever.  He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who will be greatly missed.

Roger was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish, in Farley.  He was a member of the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001.  He was a seven time National Two Wheel Drive Truck Champion.

Those left to cherish his memory are Darlene Simon of Dyersville; 4 children,  Nicole (Justin) Philipp, R.J. (Kayla) Simon, Melissa (Joe) Demmer, and Brandon (Jodi) Simon all of Farley; 13 grandchildren; nine siblings, Mary Kay Wolfe, of Clinton, Il., George (Dorann) Simon Jr., Jean Ann Neyen, Anna Mae (Glen) Hardin, Donna (Joe) Daly, Lois (Paul) Rauen, Connie Simon, and Sandy Simon, all of Farley, and Marty Simon, of Manchester; Mother-in-law, Shirley Connor of McGregor, IA; and brothers and sisters-in-law.

He also was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Thomas Simon, in 1941; a sister, Betty Simon in 2013; Father-in-law, Eugene Connor; two brothers-in-law, Robert Neyen and Richard Wolfe; two sisters-in-law, Judy Simon and Patricia Connor; a great nephew, Dylan Hoefer.

A Roger Simon Memorial Fund has been established.

“Work Hard, Play Harder” and “You’re Dreamin’ It, I’m Livin’ It”

If you would like to view video tribute or send online condolences to the family, please visit our website at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Kenneth J. McDermott

Kenneth John McDermott, 77, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 25 at his home in Cascade, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Kenneth will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. Social distancing will be followed, as recommended by federal and state guidelines. Face masks are required to attend the visitation.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Concelebrating will be Rev. Mark Ostgerhaus.  Lectors will be Anna McDermott, Becca McDermott, Nathan Freesmeier and Clkaire Freesmeier.  Eucharistic Minister will be Monica McDermott.  Placing of the pall will be done by Maureen McDermott, Jason McDermott, Kristi McDermott, Michele Freesmeier and Aaron McDermott.  Psalm #23 solo will be preformed by Rachel McDermott.  For anyone unable to attend mass it will be live streamed on the Reiff Funeral Home Facebook page.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Honorary pallbearers for Ken will be Bill Gehl, Bill Curoe, Ron Benke, Mike Beck, Dan Conrad and Larry O’Shea.

Casketbearers for Ken were Mike McDermott, John McDermott, Tom McDermott, Sam McDermott, Scott McDermott and Lisa Workman.

He was born April 8, 1943 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Raymond M. and Lenore R. (Dolphin) McDermott.  He was a graduate of St. Martin’s High School in 1961, and attended college at the DeVry Technical Institute. In 1965, he volunteered as a lay missionary with Divine Word Missionaries in Papua, New Guinea. This is where he met Maureen Trotter, his future wife of 52 years. On June 1, 1968 he was united in marriage to Maureen Trotter in Beechwood, New South Wales, Australia. Upon returning to Iowa, he fulfilled his draft obligation and spent 11 months in Vietnam. Kenneth and Maureen started their family business of McDermott Oil Company in 1972, which they operated for many years until their retirement.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed wintering in Mesa, AZ, where he could golf and relax with his friends and family. Kenneth was an avid golfer and sports fan, especially of the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Creighton Bluejays.

Kenneth was a veteran, having served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930, and the Cascade American Legion Post #528. He was also a former member of the Cascade Volunteer Fire Department and past Cascade City Council Member.

He is survived by his wife, Maureen McDermott of Cascade, IA; four children, Jason (Dede) McDermott of Cascade, IA, Kristi McDermott (Gerry Notara) of Charlotte, NC, Michele (Jon) Freesmeier of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Aaron McDermott of Marion, IA; six grandchildren, Sam, Rachel, Rebecca, and Anna McDermott, and Nathan and Claire Freesmeier; five brothers, Alan (Margie) McDermott of Cascade, IA, Bob (Barb) McDermott of Tempe, AZ, Earl (Mary) McDermott, Jerry (Shirley) McDermott, both of Cascade, IA, and Howard (Carol) McDermott of Monticello, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law all from Australia, Father Trevor Trotter of Melbourne, Irene (Owen) Wheatley of Toowoomba, Pat Trotter of Wauchope, Clare (Terry) Groom of Nerang, Barbara (Paul) Downie of Alexandria Hills, Kathy Trotter of Darwin, and Lesley (Mark) Linton of Cedar Creek.

He is preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Bob and Dorothy Trotter; his sister Betty (Jack) Vance, and three sisters in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials for Kenneth be given to Aquin Elementary in Cascade, or Divine Word Seminary in Epworth.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family would like to thank Bill and Kathy Gehl for all their help and support, and Hospice of Dubuque, Home Instead, and the Mayo Clinic doctors in Minnesota and Arizona. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes, support, and prayers.

Rita M. Hauger

Rita M. Hauger, age 86 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on July 23, 2020, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.  Rita was born on October 23, 1933, in Washington, Indiana, a daughter to James S. and Helen E. (Gootee) Mackey.

After graduating from St. Simon’s Catholic High School, she moved to Indianapolis to work for Bell Telephone. She eventually moved to Cicero, IL, where she lived for over 50 years, making many lifelong friends. In 2012, she came to Dubuque, IA to be closer to her family.

Rita was passionate about news, current events and sports. Being a fan of the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish football, she never failed to miss a game.  Rita loved family gatherings where her cooking skills were her real talent. She lived for her grandchildren as they were always the center of her universe.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rita include, her daughter, Kelley (Chris) Schrumpf, her grandchildren, Bradley Stryczek, Ashley (Kyle) Alexander, Kyle Schrumpf, Tyler Schrumpf, great granddaughter, Kayleigh Uppena, nieces, nephews, her extended family the Diverdes, and friends.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; brothers John Mackey, James Mackey, Thomas Mackey, step-brother William Francisco Drury CSC, Niece Debbie Long (Mackey), and close friends, Mary Diverde, Marcia Londo, sisters, Peggy, Ann, and Molly Nugent.

To honor Rita, a private family service and celebration of life is being held at a later date.  Burial will be in the St. John’s Cemetery in Washington, Indiana.

Rita’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Luther Manor for all their compassion, care, and concern for Rita and her family. They would also to thank the Tri-State Cremation Center for all their help through this difficult transition.

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

David J. Harry

David J. “Rudy” Harry 64 of Dubuque passed away Thursday July 23, 2020 at the University of Iowa Hospital.

 Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday July 29, 2020 at Linwood Cemetery with Rev. Katrina Richardson officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Tuesday, July 28, 2020 with a prayer service at 6:30p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 10:00a.m. Wednesday July 29, 2020 at the funeral home until the procession leaves for the cemetery.  The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Rudy was born in Dubuque on October 12, 1955 the son of Lloyd and Harriet (Gerndt) Harry. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1973.

Rudy had a great love of Harley’s and took several trips out west, and attended many swap meets. He could be found playing euchre or cribbage any time if he wasn’t giving some little one a ride of “trot-trot to Boston”. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and camping, and feeding his backyard wildlife visitors and his dogs, Bear and Autumn. He was always busy but never to busy to stop and help a friend.  

He is survived by his long time companion of 25 years Myrna Howell a daughter Katie Harry, his grandchildren Jaylynn and Payton and their grandmother Connie Gerhard, his siblings Ted (Lynda) Harry, Jacqueline (Tony) Urbain, Valerie Harry, Brian (Kim) Harry and Barbara (Hal) Burns, many nieces and nephews, along with Myrna’s children Carlene (Lynn) Hillard, Michelle (Dean) Huseman, Amie (Billy) Dean, and Buddy (Kasey) Howell. He also had three God Children Dave Reinert, Rashene Womack, and Zach Donath.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Joshua Stevens,  infant siblings Katherine and Duane Harry, and Malcolm Grossheim, Karel & Joseph Reinert, Gary Harry (Connie Dement), and Lloyd Michael Harry.

Pamela Ostrander

Pamela Ostrander, 67, of Dubuque, died Saturday, July 25, 2020, at her home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Pam’s family.

The Funeral Service for Pam will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. The service will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Pam was born August 13, 1952, in Dubuque, the daughter of Warren and Betty Calloway Schmitt. On October 25, 1969, she married Lee “Tom” Ostrander in Dubuque.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed shopping, cooking, casinos, playing cards, especially poker. She especially cherished time with her family.

Survivors include husband, Tom; three children, Kelly (Todd) Day, Cheryl Ostrander, and Scott (Stacey) Ostrander all of Dubuque; 14 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth (Cathy) Schmitt of Guttenberg, and Michael (Chris) Schmitt of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she is preceded in death by one brother, Warren Schmitt; and one sister, April Schmitt.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Hermann, and his nurses.

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

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

Ralph L. Rolling

Ralph L. Rolling, 96, of 275 Princeton Place died Saturday, July 25, 2020, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM  followed by recitation of the rosary beginning at 7:00 PM on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road. On behalf of Ralph’s family masks will be required at the visitation and the mass. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Ralph’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ralph will be 10:00 AM Friday, July 31, 2020 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 2001 St. Joseph Street, with Rev. Father Jim Goerend as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

He was born July 24, 1924, in Dubuque, the son of Leo F. and Pearl C. (Chapman) Rolling and was baptized August 3, 1924 at the Church of the Nativity by Rev. H.P. Rohlman.

He attened Nativity School, Loras Academy and College, NW Missouri State University and received his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Ralph married Joan E. Saul on October 2, 1946 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. After 57 years of marriage, Joan died on Christmas Eve, 2003.

Ralph was in the U.S. Navy for 7 years and served as the Supply and Disbursing Officer on a destroyer, the USS Heywood L. Edwards, in the Pacific theater.

He was with Weber Paper Company when it was founded in 1951 where he was a Salesman, Office Manager, President and Chairman of the Board. He retired in 1994 and remained as a Chairman of the Board of the now Wepaco Management and Consulting Company.

He was a member of St. Joseph the Worker parish and was Past-President of the Parish Council, member of the men’s choir, and served in the first group of Lay Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers. He and his wife organized the parish’s first Christian Family Movement unit.

He was a member of the Serra Club, life member of the Council #510 Knights of Columbus, Past-President of the Downtown Kiwanis Club, Clarke College Development Council, Dubuque Ambassadors, Squires Club, and Past-President of Dubuque Shooting Society 330 Club.

Survivors include his three daughters, Constance (Peter) Bellaver of Dubuque, Kathy (Bill) Bartmann of Bixby, OK, and Christine (Greg) Sinkey of Iowa City, IA; six grandchildren, Noelle Bellaver of Grants, NM, Andrew (Sue) Bellaver of Fortville, IN, Jessica (Kory) Allsop of Bixby, OK, Meghan Barry of Bixby, OK, Sarah (Tony) Greazel of North Liberty, IA, and Michael (Ellen) Sinkey of Dubuque; and 11 great-grandchildren, Madeline and Ava Bellaver, Devin and Tatum Barry, Caleb and Emily Allsop, Issac, Sophia, Sammy, and Joey Greazel, and Emma Sinkey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; sister, Carol; and brothers, Ted and John.

Memorials may be given to St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Serra Club, or Hills and Dales.

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

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

Michael Wulfekuhle

Sister Marian Einck

Sister Marian (Raphael) Einck, OSF, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 9:10 p.m., Thursday, July 23, 2020 at the Clare House.

A private Rite of Final Commendation will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2020. A Memorial Mass will be held at Mount St. Francis Chapel at a later date. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born on August 23, 1929 in Ossian, IA the daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Miller) Einck.

Sister Marian entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1945 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1951. Sister received master’s degrees in mathematics at University of Santa Clara, CA and in theology at Aquinas Institute, St. Louis, MO. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Dyersville, Ionia, New Hampton, Holy Ghost and Wahlert, Dubuque, and in Oregon at Portland and Milwaukie. Sister also served as Pastoral Associate at St. Edward’s in Waterloo, IA and at Glencoe, MN. She later served in parish ministry at St. Francis, Dyersville, IA and directed the ministry for the Divorced/Bereaved in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her nieces, nephews, and Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her infant sisters Marie, Caroline, and Rita; her infant brothers Tony, William, and Frank; and brothers Emil (Florence) Einck, Rev. Gregory Einck, and Richard (June) Einck.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Leonard Funeral Home  & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Daniel F. Teply Jr.

Daniel F. Teply Jr, 83, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on July 23rd, 2020.

Visitation will be on Monday, July 27th, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, from 4-7pm.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home, with Rev. Loren Shellabarger officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Dan was born September 25th, 1936, in Clarkson, NE.  The son of Daniel Frank Sr. and Charlotte (Prachar) Teply. He was a 1954 graduate of Clarkson High School.  On May 3rd, 1959, he was united in marriage to Ruth A.  Way of Schuyler, NE.  They were blessed with 61 years of marriage.

Dan joined the service in 1955 where he served as a Private 2nd Class for the US Army.  He then opened Teply Hardware in Bloomfield, NE. with Ruth.  After selling the family hardware store, he began his career with the state of Nebraska and later with the US Department of Agriculture for almost 30 years.  He retired in 1999.  After his retirement, he was able to devote his attention to the duct cleaning side of D&D Enterprises, which was begun by with his son, David.  He was also active with the Menominee-Dunleith Fire Department and helped many in need.

Dan’s most rewarding contribution in life was his 50+ year membership as a Master Mason of the Grand Lodge A.F. and A.M. in Fremont, NE.  He served as the President of the Key City Shrine Club, a branch of the Kaaba Shriners.  A Masonic Service will be held at a later date.  He dedicated to serving the organization and raising funds for the Shriners Hospitals for Children.  You may have seen Dan volunteering each year at the Dubuque County Fair where he would be known to sit for hours at the Shriner Popcorn Booth, calling “Popcorn, get your popcorn, here!”  He also drove the Shriner truck in numerous area parades.

Surviving are his mother Charlotte Teply of Carrollton, TX; his wife Ruth of Dubuque, IA; children Daniel Frank III (Michele), of Dubuque, IA, David (Lynn) Teply of East Dubuque, IL, Tamara (Jared) Sigwarth of Dubuque, IA; a sister Karen (Alan) Sander of Carrollton, TX; six grandchildren (Matthew, Andrew, Ava, William, Emma, and Ian), sister In Law, Linda (Richard) Knapp of Schuyler, NE, and loving nieces and a nephew.

Ruth and Family would like to thank his doctors and caregivers at MercyOne in Dubuque, IA with his transition in care.  In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorial donations be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

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

Sister Janice Link, BVM

Sister Janice Link, BVM, 83, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Caritas Center.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Wednesday July 29, 2020, followed by a virtual visitation from 10:25-10:40 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial in the Marian Hall Chapel at 10:45 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Janice was an elementary teacher in Chicago, an elementary and ESL teacher in Tujunga, Calif., and a secondary teacher, assistant administrator, and library assistant in Mission Hills, Calif. She also ministered as an elementary teacher in Pueblo and Aurora, Colo.; a junior high teacher in Stephan, Ipswich, Hoven and Aberdeen, S.D., where she also served as a high school teacher. She was an elementary teacher and principal in Fort Yates, N.D.

She was born on Aug. 15, 1936, in Lefor, N.D., to Joseph and Anne (Gion) Link. She entered the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Benedict in Watertown, S.D. in 1954. She transferred to the BVM congregation in 1972, professing final vows on June 16, 1974.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by brothers Wayne (Vangie) Link and Raymond (Emilie) Link, all of Bismarck, N.D.; sisters Carol (Lee) Mayer, Fargo, N.D.; Joanne (Tom) King, Lawrence, Kans.; and Marilyn Link, Westland, Mich.; nieces; nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 46 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa 51001 is in charge of arrangements.

Doris M. (Upmann) Rubel

It is to our deep regret that Mrs. Doris Margaret (Upmann) Rubel passed away at 11:30 p.m. on July 21st, 2020 due to a brief illness.

We will remember Doris as an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to all she knew.

Doris was a generous and kind person who loved to meet people and genuinely make them feel welcome. Doris had a very strong faith in God and welcomed her place into heaven. Doris enjoyed travel playing euchre and above all being with family and friends, especially her lifelong friends, the Little Rascals.

Born in Dubuque, Iowa Doris attended a one-room schoolhouse in Sandridge, Illinois and eventually graduated from Dubuque Wahlert high school. In 1961 Doris married the love of her life James Lee Rubel. While raising a family of three children in Springbrook, Iowa, Doris was a community volunteer, involved in farming and real estate ventures, and eventually owning and operating Crystal Lake cave in Dubuque Iowa for 40 years.
Having met Doris, people from all over the world were left with the indelible impression that Iowa is an incredible place to visit and live and that Iowans are kind, reliable, resilient and hardworking people.

Doris is preceded in death by her beloved husband James Lee Rubel, son Robert and daughter Angela Rubel, parents Leroy and Agnes (Averkamp) Upmann, brothers Ron, John and Richard Upmann, sisters-in-law Carol and Maryann Upmann, father and mother-in-law Edward and Carmen (Eganhouse) Rubel.

Doris is survived by sons Jeff (Gina) (Coralville, IA), Doug (Araceli) (Las Vegas, NV), daughter Julie (Dubuque), sisters Darlene (John) Skarda, Carol (Ed) Poock, and Deb Marcov, beloved nieces and nephews and her dearest grandchildren Travis Rubel, Lexi and Kelsey Ramirez.

Doris would often refer to as her sisters, are sisters-in-law Joan (Bob) Flick, Mary (Les) Lenstra, Bette (Ron) Juergens, Barb (Steve) O’Rourke, Ann (Vinnie) Lemkuhl.

Private mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook, Iowa with Rev. Lyle Wilgenbusch officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. A live stream of the funeral mass will be posted to the funeral home Facebook page on Saturday.

Daniel R. Hermsen

Daniel R. Hermsen, 85, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, July 23, 2020, at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 2:45 pm and the American Legion will conduct a service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Monday, July 27, from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2020, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial at St. Boniface cemetery in New Vienna where Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Dan was born March 13, 1935, in Dyersville, Iowa the son of John “Jack” and Sylvia (Thillen) Hermsen. He married Jean Ann Krapfl on August 13, 1957, in New Vienna, Iowa. Together they lived on the family century farm until retiring and moving to Dyersville in 2010. He also drove a school bus for Western Dubuque Schools for 13 years.

Throughout his life Dan enjoyed farming, golfing, fishing (especially their trips up north), and spending time with his grandchildren & great grandchildren.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 136 and an avid Chicago Bears, Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes fan.

Survivors include his wife of almost 63 years this August, Jean, children: Steven (Laurie) Hermsen of Monticello, Bill (June) Hermsen of Dyersville, Sandy (Kevin) Gravel of New Vienna, Janet (Jeff) Smith of Peosta, Julie (Chris) Hoeger of Eldridge, and Tom (Angie) Hermsen of Fennimore, WI; grandchildren: Amy Hermsen, Melissa (Jake) Hyde, Kelly (Matt) Hertzfeld, Tracy (Vince) Ramos, Chad (Angi) Hillers, Tia (Ryan) Ferrara, Cindy (Wes) Ritt, Kristie (Joe) Boll, Peter (Caitlin) Kramer, Matt (Val) Kramer, Rob Kramer, Craig (Audra) Smith, Kayla Hoeger (friend Trevor Rottinghaus), Heather Hoeger; great grandchildren: Kade, Keaton & Kennedy Hermsen, Lexi & Tanner Hertzfeld, Dawson and baby Hyde due in October, Brayden, Jackson, Dominic, Anthony & Giovani Ferrara, Phoenix & Serenity Ritt, Ella & Logan Boll, Ben, Ellie and Ian Smith and Ayda Kramer; siblings: Virgil Hermsen, Fred (Barb) Hermsen and Doris Lake; in-laws: MaryLou Krapfl, Ellen “Nellie” Krapfl and Don (Jean) Krapfl.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Elmer & Eleanor Krapfl, in-laws: Mary Hermsen, “Doc” Lake, Roger Krapfl and Bob Krapfl.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.

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

Ronald G. Buxton Sr.

Ronald G. “Bucky” Buxton Sr., age 71, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:35 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Ron’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, July 27, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a prayer service held at 7:00 p.m. Due to Covid19 concerns, the family asks that anyone attending please wear a mask. To honor Ron’s life, funeral services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Bart Timmerman officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Linwood Cemetery following cremation.

Ron was born on January 11, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Harry and Marie (Story) Buxton.

Ron went to school at Prescott Elementary and Washington Junior High, before moving to California with his sister for a year. After returning to Dubuque, he attended Dubuque Senior High School and went on to honorably serve his country with the National Guard. Ron married Joann Kelly on December 5, 1970, at St. Anthony’s Church, and they were blessed with 3 children. Ron was later united in marriage to the love of his life, Cheryl “Sherry” Burr, on September 4, 1982, at 1st Congregational United Church of Christ in Dubuque, and they were blessed with 2 more children. He was employed with John Deere Dubuque Works for 37 years, until his well earned retirement in 2009. In his free time, Ron could often be found playing cards, shooting pool, golfing or fishing. He was a die hard Green Bay Packer fan his whole life. Ron also enjoyed going to the dog track and taking the entire family with him to watch the races. Spending time with his family and friends was no doubt his favorite activity, and any time the grandkids were involved he was especially happy. Ron’s furry four legged friends also held a special place in his heart. We are heartbroken at the sudden and unexpected loss of Ron in our daily lives, we will miss you more than words can ever express.

Those left to cherish Ron’s memory include

his loving wife,
Sherry Buxton, Dubuque, IA;

his 5 children,
Kim (Tomilyn) Buxton, Madison, WI,
Ronald “Ron” (Tricia) Buxton Jr., Kieler, WI,
Heather (Mike) White, Potosi, WI,
Erin (Quinton “Cornell” Trask) Buxton, Dubuque, IA
and Jeff (Lacey) Buxton, Dubuque, IA;

his 11 grandchildren;

his siblings,
Sharon (Ronald) Nickolas, Dubuque, IA,
Gary (Suzie) Buxton, New Mexico
and Mark Buxton, Livermore, CA;

a sister-in-law,
Joyce (Ron) Digmann, Dyersville, IA;

a brother-in-law,
Bill (Jeanette) Digmann, Dyersville, IA;

several nieces and nephews;

and Joann Kelly.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Sydney (William) Weichel; a sister-in-law, Dena Digmann; and his in-laws, Verdus and Virgil Burr.

Ron’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital, especially the ICU, for all of their wonderful and attentive care of Ron, and their compassion for his family during this trying time.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and can be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ronald Buxton Sr. Family.

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

Allen A. Dryer

Allen A. “Bugsy” Dryer, 76, of Otter Creek, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, July 22, 2020, at his home.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the St. Lawrence Cemetery, Otter Creek, Iowa. It is recommended that you practice social distancing guidelines due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Allen Alvin Dryer was born on September 8, 1943 in Otter Creek, Iowa, to Alvin G. and Florence E. (Lippstock) Dryer. He grew up in Dubuque. He married Donna Mae Blosch at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque, Iowa on April 24, 1965. To this union three children were born, Ronald, Terry and Kevin.

“Bugsy” as he was affectionately known farmed and had worked as a construction laborer for many years for Laborers’ Union Local 659 in Dubuque. He retired on February 1, 2000. While semi-retired and until present he worked for Gansen Excavating.

“Bugsy” was passionate about truck and tractor pulling and had built three trucks for pulling with his son Kevin. They enjoyed entering contests and would travel to area tractor and truck pulls together.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Donna Dryer of Otter Creek, IA; children, Ronald (Krisceda) Dryer of Kewanee, IL, and Terry (Stephanie) Dryer of Kearney, MO; 10 grandchildren; a sister, Helen Roth of Dubuque, IA; a brother, Robert Dryer of Hopeville, IA; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Joanne and Bill Blum of Dubuque, IA, Marilyn and Ronnie Pierce of Potosi, WI, and Don Daehler of Dubuque, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Kevin on March 5, 2012, and sisters Betty Shellhause, Janice Daehler and Judy Dryer.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Allen A. “Bugsy” Dryer memorial fund has been established.

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