Obituaries Archive

Pattie J. Gallwas

Pattie Jean Gallwas (also known as Mom, Pattie-Cake, Nana, and Grandma to her grandchildren), a woman of boundless curiosity and unwavering spirit, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, at the age of 89 in Galena, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

She was born on October 24, 1936, to Dr. Douglas Moore and Ruth Lillian (Godwin) Bush. John and Pattie were married in 1961.

Pattie leaves behind her cherished husband, John Gallwas, along with her children: six sons, Douglas William, Martin Andrew, John Fredrick Jr., William Bush, Walter James, and Franklin Terry Gallwas; two daughters, Mary Lillian Lombardi and Isa Jane Magsamen; and seventeen grandchildren. Her life raising eight children had many twists and turns, but Pattie always found a way to keep it adventurous and challenging.

When the family moved from Moraga, CA, to Darien, CT, John and Pattie turned it into a family road trip! They moved from Connecticut to Spokane, WA, and finally to Illinois. Pattie had a gift for connecting with those she met along the way. If you met Pattie, you are sure to have a delightful story to tell. Her passions were as varied as they were vibrant. Pattie had a deep affection for people, a special fondness for big dogs, enjoyed acting in Community Theater, and delighted in dramatic movies and romantic comedies. Her involvement in the theater highlighted her creative and expressive nature. She was a skilled bridge player, earning the prestigious title of Life Master, an accomplishment she was very proud of. Pattie enjoyed exploring museums, was an avid reader, and was always eager to learn and challenge herself. She always reached for the top and was always on top of the latest fashion!

Pattie and John retired to Apple Canyon just outside of Galena. She cherished the peaceful countryside and her home perched on a charming lake. She especially loved her time with her husband, surrounded by family, at the annual Summer Gallwas family reunions, which were filled with music, bonfires, dancing, and fireworks. Later in life, Pattie found profound meaning in her conversion to Catholicism.

She dedicated her time and compassion to volunteering at her local church and a local nursing home, offering comfort and companionship to those who were lonely or frail. Pattie was known for her intelligence and her feisty, stubborn, yet caring and compassionate nature. While Pattie endured numerous challenges caused by dementia during her later years, she is now at peace and free from the burden of this debilitating condition. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her!

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

Katherine S. Clancy

Katherine S. Clancy, 67, of Epworth, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and  family on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at MercyOne in Dubuque, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life and Private Burial in Highview cemetery for Katherine will be held at a later date.

She was born February 7, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Linus and Helen (Werner) Luensmann.  She is a 1976 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  On June 28, 1980, she was united in marriage to Michael Clancy at St. Clement’s Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on March 22, 2019.

She was employed at Ertl Company in Dyersville, Demmer Oil in Worthington, Iowa.

She was an avid reader and she loved to collect clocks and solar lights, she had too many to count.

She is survived by her three children, Sean Clancy (Angie Vanderplas) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Brittany Clancy and Ryan Clancy of Epworth, IA; her mother-in-law, Amke Clancy of Epworth; three brothers, Richard (Cindy) Luensmann of Dubuque, IA, Michael Luensmann of Epworth, IA and Ken (Deb) Luensmann of Holy Cross, IA; one sister-in-law, Angela (Bill) Theisen of Epworth, IA; many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her father-in-law, Eugene Clancy; and a sister-in-law, Monica Urbain.

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

The family would like to thank the staff of Mercy One Medical Center for all the kindness and care given to mom.

Mark Willging

Mark Willging, 72, of Dubuque, died suddenly on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at his home in Dubuque.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at Thunder Hills Country Club in Peosta, IA. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Mark was born January 13, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Arthur J. and Mary M. (Schubert) Willging.

Mark graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1971. He then attended Loras College, graduating in 1975, and later received his J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1978.

Mark was an attorney practicing for most of his career at Fuerste, Carew, Juergens & Sudmeier, P.C. until his retirement on December 31, 2025.

He was an avid golfer and a member of Thunder Hills Country Club. He was also a member of the Dubuque County Bar Association. He enjoyed going out to dinner with friends but above all, his time was spent with family whom he was greatly devoted to in so many ways.

Survivors include four siblings, James (Georgia) Willging of Asbury, Joyce Tignino of Wheaton, IL, Michele (Bill) Welter of Iowa City, IA, and Greg (Laura) Willging of Dubuque. He was a favorite uncle to Jeff, Dan, and David (Jody) Willging, Emily (Richard) Chandler, Gabe (Gina) Tignino, Ben (Maria)Welter, Ellen (Craig) Welter, Julia (Jonathan) Welter, Alex (Kaylah) Vaassen, Abby Willging, Andy Willging and 15 great-nieces and nephews.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The Fountain of Youth Program.

We’re all beyond grief and have no way to honor the brother and uncle who was at the center of our family and who we loved so much. He was the best!

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

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

David R. Manternach

David Richard Manternach, 63, of Dubuque, died Monday, January 5, 2026, at his home.

The Funeral Service for Dave will be 10:00 am Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.

David was born December 8, 1962, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Richard and Catherine DeMaio Manternach.

He was a 1981 graduate of Hempstead High School, and in 1985, he received a BA in Art at Coe College in Cedar Rapids.

He worked in sales for phone book advertising.

Dave grew up attending Church of the Resurrection. He was a proud member of the TKE Fraternity at Coe College and played football on defense in both high school and college. David loved watching sports, was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan, and especially enjoyed spending time fishing.

Survivors include one daughter, Taylor Manternach of Henderson, NV; one sister, Amy (Manternach) Green and her husband, Scott, of Odessa, FL; one nephew, Ethan Green; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Boys Town.

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

Laura J. Kruse

Laura J. “Jean” Kruse, 84, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, at Stonehill Heath Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Deacon David Roth officiating.

Jean was born June 14, 1941, in Balltown, Iowa, the daughter of Leon and Claretta (Brimeyer) Breitbach. She attended St. Joseph Academy High School and graduated from Wahlert High School.

She married Donald E. Kruse on September 28, 1963, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, in Dubuque. Jean worked as a cook at Ennoble Manor and Loras College, and retired from housekeeping at University of Dubuque.

When Jean’s kids were younger, she was known for her sewing skills and created their Halloween costumes. Her hobbies also included embroidery and crochet. Her homemade apple pies were always a favorite treat. She took many summer trips with Don and the kids to Backbone State Park and amusement parks, as well as family vacations visiting many locations across the country. Don and Jean were avid golfers and shared their love of the sport with their family. Together, they enjoyed traveling, playing cards, going out to eat, and visiting local casinos. Jean also took care of Don after his stroke until his passing in 2021.

Jean is survived by her children, Diane (Steve) Hefel of Peosta, IA, Kevin (Betsy) Kruse of Washington Crossing, PA, Brian (Melanie) Kruse of Wilton, IA, and Todd (Robert O’Hara) Kruse of Oak Park. IL; grandchildren: Kristal Kruse, Linsey Petrousek, Abbie Hefel, Caroline Titus, Alison Kruse, Julianne Kruse, and Aaron Kruse; great grandchildren: Caleb and Alice Rumple, Rosemarie and Violet Petrousek and Walter Titus; siblings: Betty Frommelt, Paul (Fran) Breitbach, Gerald (Gayle) Breitbach, Larry Breitbach, and Clare (Hugh) Gaston; siblings-in-law Donna Breitbach, and Gary (Ann) Kruse, along with many nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband Don; children Susan Kruse and William Kruse; her parents; parents-in-law Ed and Lenore Kruse; siblings: Mary (James) Pink, Velma (Earl) Brahm, Shirley (Don) Hansen, Carol (John) O’Brien, Anna (James) Kemp, Peter Breitbach, Joseph Breitbach, Charles Breitbach and Phillip Breitbach; and brothers-in-law Paul Frommelt and Edward (Sherry) Kruse.

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

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the healthcare professionals, especially Dr. Eric Engelman, Eagle Pointe Place, Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care and compassion.

Robert W. Graff

Robert “Bob” W. Graff, 84, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Robert was born May 23, 1941, in Dubuque, the son of Edward J. and Loretta (Behnke) Graff. On July 31, 1965, he married Janet M. Beckley at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in LaMotte, Iowa.

He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving in France from November 28, 1961 until August 12, 1964.

He worked as a truck driver for several years with Ruan Transport in Dubuque and later spent 23 years with H & W Motor Express, also in Dubuque. After retiring, he served as a school bus driver for the Western Dubuque School District.

Bob was truly a jack of all trades who loved staying busy with hands-on projects. After finishing his workday, he could often be found in his garage, working on projects or fixing cars that friends and family brought to his home. He enjoyed camping and fishing and loved to travel, visiting every state except Hawaii. Above all, Bob cherished his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather and was proudly known as “Grandpa Bob,” a title he held close to his heart.

Survivors include his wife, Janet; four children, Tammy (Loras) Link of Balltown, Lori (Steve) Esser of Dubuque, Jerry (Lisa) Graff of Dubuque, Mark (Michele) Graff of Normal, IL; eight grandchildren, Sarah (Zach) Little, Melissa (Jason Tomkins) Link, Shantelle, Kimberly, Nicholas, and Jonathan Graff, Hailee and Lexie Graff; two great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Cecilia Little; three sisters-in-law, Pat Graff of Peosta, Mary Ellen O’Brien of Huntley, IL, and Shirley Jean Lemm of Beemer, NE; two brothers-in-law, Paul (Carol) Beckley of Dubuque, and George (Dee) Beckley of Ferndale, WA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a stillborn son, Marvin, twin of Lori, in 1967, and brothers and sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Edwin) Reeg, Joann (Ray) Schumacher, Bob (Mary) Beckley, Fr. Clarence Beckley SSC, Bill Timmerman and Tom O’Brien.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Missionary Society of St. Columban, 1902 N. Calhoun Street, St. Columban, NE, 68056.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff and Chaplain at MercyOne Medical Center.

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

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

Tom Nadermann

On the morning of January 6, 2026, Tom “Tommy” “Smokey” Nadermann, passed away at home, with his wonderful wife/caretaker, Helen and his 3 children by his side.  He was born the youngest son of 10 children on June 8, 1943 son of Matthew and Elenora (Beckmann) Nadermann.  Smokey and his wife, Helen (Krapfl) were married on August 17, 1968, and have been long-time residents of Dyersville, Iowa.  He began his career at the very young age of 16.  He worked for the Ertl Company for 37 years, managing the paint line.  He then managed the paint line at Lund Mfg. in Farley until his retirement.

Smokey lived an incredibly fun filled life.  He was always a great time when he and Helen and their kids and his siblings, their spouses, nieces and nephews got together, which was quite often back in the day.  He enjoyed a good card game, especially Pinochle, and watching the Cubs and Hawkeyes when he could.  He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and loved cheering them on, whatever event they chose.  He was very proud to become a great grandfather to Joey and Wil.

He was in the Army National Guard.  He has since been a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137 for 53 years.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Helen Nadermann of Dyersville, IA; three children, Jeff (Dana) Nadermann of Epworth, IA, Shelly (Dennis) Ulbrich of New Vienna, IA and Sara (Ryan) Wetlaufer of Cedar Falls, IA; seven grandchildren, Gavin (Kalyn), Ellie, and Tomas Nadermann, Garrett and Erin Ulbrich, and Reagan and Drake Wetlaufer; his two great grandchildren, Joey and Wil Nadermann; and several in-laws and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Eva Wetlaufer; his parents-in-law, Vic and Abbie Krapfl ; four sisters and their husbands, Eileen (Sylvester “Bud”)Rauen and Imelda “Millie” (Fred) Smith, Bernice (Dean) Garretson and Germaine “Gerry” (Bob) Reed; five brothers and their wives, Elmer (Juanita) Nadermann, Leo (Dorothy) Nadermann, Laverne “Jake” (Agnes) Nadermann, James “Punchy” (Connie) Nadermann and Bob “Chief” (Jenny) Nadermann; and several in-laws.

The family will greet friends and relatives from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where services will be held at 11:00 a.m., with the Deacon presiding.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Sr. Eileen McGovern, BVM

Ann M. Tegeler

Ann M. Tegeler, 86, of Norwalk, Iowa, formerly of Dyersvillem, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Services will be held at a later date.

Ann was born on July 27th, 1939, in Petersburg, Iowa to Lawrence and Lucy (Westemeier) Lammers. She married Jean Tegeler on July 1st, 1958, in Dyersville. After a couple years living in California, they returned to Dyersville to raise their 4 children. In April of 2024, they moved to Norwalk, Iowa to be closer to family. Ann enjoyed playing the piano, sewing blankets for those in need, playing cards and spending time with family.

Survivors include her husband, Jean; children: Tim (Sue) Tegeler of Norman, OK, Janet (Phil) Weber of Norwalk, Iowa and Sandi (Shannon) Falter of Buckeye, AZ; grandchildren: Olivia (Matheus) Diaz, Hannah (Matthew) Padilla, Rachel (Zac) Ross and Morgan Weber; two great grandchildren and one on the way.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents; son, Dale; grandson, Alexander Tegeler; two brothers: Walter Lammers and Jerome Lammers.

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

Larry McChristy

Larry McChristy, 78, of Dubuque, died Monday, January 5, 2026, at Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 3:45 pm Friday, January 9, 2026 at St. Peter Lutheran Church.

The Funeral Service for Larry will be at 4:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2026, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Rev. Nichole Robson officiating.

Larry was born January 28, 1947, in Monticello, IA, the only child of Wilber and Clara Mae (Schlimmer) McChristy. He attended school in Monticello and Cedar Rapids. After his parents moved to Dubuque, he graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1966.

Larry was an outdoorsman from an early age. As a child he spent many hours of his free time fishing at Kiddie Creek in Monticello. As an adult, he spent many weekends at his hunting cabin near Boscobel, WI. He loved hunting deer, turkey, rabbits, or whatever was in season.

Larry started working in the maintenance department for the Dubuque Community Schools in 1970. He spent a short time working at the old administration building, then was assigned as the head custodian at Eisenhower School. He loved the kids at Eisenhower and interacted with many of them. He was also ready to help any teacher that needed something moved or fixed. He was later assigned as head custodian at Central Alternative School. Larry retired in 2003.

Larry was also available to help any one that needed it. His truck license plate read ” UNC LAR.” There was never a task or problem that he couldn’t figure out how to fix.

In 1999, Larry married Jean Knight. She survives him. He is also survived by his son, Douglas Allen (Karin) McChristy of Bountiful, UT; step-children, Chris (Erika Ryerson) Corbett of Madison, WI, and Anne (Scott) Pace of Little Rock, AR; grandson, Keith McChristy of Centerville, UT; and three step-grandchildren, Cameron and Carter Pace of Little Rock, AR, and Evander Corbett of Madison, WI; and his Springer Spaniel, Daisy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and many beloved dogs.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque, St. Peter Lutheran Church, and the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

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

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

Leon J. Wolf

Leon J. Wolf, 81, of Rickardsville, Iowa passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Leon will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Visitation will also continue after 9:00 a.m. on Friday, January 9th at the Funeral Home.

Services for Leon will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rickardsville, Iowa, with Rev. Tyler Raymond presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Rickardsville, Iowa.

Leon was born June 10, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of John and Clara (Wilwert) Wolf.  He  graduated from Holy Cross High School.  On September 17, 1966, he was united in marriage to Rose M. Simon at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa.  Rose preceded him in death on April 4, 2021.

The couple farmed in the Rickardsville area for many years.  After retiring from the farm the couple went on to own and operate Wolf Trucking.

The couple truly enjoyed spending time with friends and family and if there was a deck of cards, Euchre was to be played.  He was a man of great faith…and an avid CUBS fan.  He had a passion for farming, he especially liked to do field work and combining.  He had a knack for gathering information, and was always willing to give his “advice” to family and friends.  It was almost impossible for him to keep a secret or a surprise.   He loved his family, and his grandchildren, and as he aged the great grandkids had become the sparkle in his eye.

Leon was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Rickardsville, a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and a past member of the Iowa National Guard, serving from 1962-1968.

Those left to cherish his memory are his six children, Kristina (Nathan) Watson of Peru, IL, Kevin (Dawn) Wolf of Rickardsville, Karen (Chris) Rahe of Petersburg, Kelley (Tom) Deutmeyer of Petersburg, Kim (Jason) Curran of Oglesby, IL and Kathy (Mark) Klostermann of Bankston; 19 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren and one on the way; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary (Donald) Brimeyer of Dubuque, Melita Pfeiler of Rickardsville, Alice Cook of Bernard, Carolyn (Jim) Pimlott of Cedar Rapids; his brothers and sisters-in-laws, Jim & Eileen Simon of Farley, Jane Simon of Sioux Rapids, Clara Simon of Castle Rock, CO, Irene Pearcey of Yakima, WA, Phyllis Simon (Bruce Taggert) of Hillsborough, NC, Annette Simon of Kaufman, TX, Roger Simon of East Dubuque, IL, and Francis “Joe” (Mark) Simon of Yakima, WA.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Donald (Dolores) (Dorothy) Wolf, Marvin Wolf and Francis Wolf; four brothers-in-law, Gene Pearcey, Lyal Pfeiler, Vincent Simon and Dale Cook; and two sisters-in-law, Betty Simon and Theresa Simon.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

A Leon J. Wolf memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Amy Coyle for all the care and compassion she provided to Leon, the staff of Hospice of Dubuque and the staff of Hawkeye Care Center for all the care, kindness, and support given to Leon and our family.

Robert L. Hennings

Robert “Bob” L. Hennings, 64, of Dubuque, Iowa, peacefully completed his earthly journey on Sunday, January 4th, 2026, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital.

Born on November 12th, 1961, in Dubuque, Robert was the cherished son of Melvin (Red) Hennings and Mary (Wernke) Root. He was a devoted father to his beautiful daughter, Ashley, with whom he was fortunate to reconnect and strengthen their bond in recent years.

A passionate Minnesota Vikings fan, Bob treasured the Sundays spent at his brother Dan’s home, enjoying football games followed by delicious home-cooked meals. He found great joy in the outdoors, often spending his free time fishing and during ginseng season, exploring the woods. Bob loved sharing stories, enlightening others with his thoughts on life, and engaging in meaningful conversations. Throughout his life, he worked diligently, lastly at Flexsteel alongside his brother.  Sadly, an accident in 2020 led to his disability, but his resilience shone through.

In June of 2025, Bob was diagnosed with kidney cancer, and he fought valiantly through his health struggles with unwavering will and determination. Although he faced monumental challenges in those final months, his spirit remained strong.

Bob leaves behind a loving family, including his daughter Ashley N. Hennings; brother, Dan (Laura) Hennings; his sisters Tammy Durham and Rhonda (Tim) Baule; his goddaughter Trace (Michael) Durham-Welsh; his nephew Matt (Janae) Hennings, who held a brotherly bond with him; and many beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Hennings; mother, Mary M. Root; stepfather, James Root; brother-in-law, Joel Durham; and his grandparents.

In honoring Robert’s wishes, there will be no visitation. The family plans to celebrate his life at a later date. They would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Wendt Cancer Center, Dr. Herman, Tony, and all the staff for their exceptional care during these trying months, as well as to UnityPoint-Finley Hospital for the love and support shown to Robert in his final days. A special thank you goes to nurse Molly, who brought comfort and compassion and was by Robert’s family side through it all. Roberts’ family will not forget her kindness and compassion in his final days.

Bob’s wishes were to help others if he survived his cancer. Iowa Donor Network will help keep his wish alive and honor this.

Joan Remakel

Joan “JoAnn” Remakel, 87, of Dubuque, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family.

A prayer service will be held at 1:30 pm on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 5:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Joan will be at 10:30 am on Monday, January 12, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Joan was born December 5, 1938, in Darlington, WI, the daughter of James and Margaret (Smith) Kendall. She married Robert “Bob” Remakel on August 24, 1957, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on April 22, 2015.

Joan was a dedicated mom and volunteered many years at St. Anthony Catholic Church Rectory maintaining church records. All who knew Joan understood the significance of dates to her. She had a passion for researching genealogy for the Kendall and Remakel families dating back 150+ years. She spent numerous days researching data at libraries or hiking through woods and farmland to read headstones of small cemeteries to register data with Counties ensuring cemeteries were registered, maintained and preserved. She established books for family members containing genealogy history, photos, newspaper clippings, and much more. Family members are in awe and blessed to have a preserved time capsule. Joan had a passion for painting ceramics, creating both beautiful friendships and works of art that will continue to be cherished.

Family was everything to Joan, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Joan is survived by four children, Michael (Beth) Remakel of Dubuque, Tina (Jim) Allen of Bellevue, Tammy (Stan) Remakel-Ryan of Dubuque, and Teresa (Mark Heiderscheit) Biroschik of Dubuque; nine grandchildren Sarah (Dan) Henkels, Chad (Bethany) Remakel, Robyn (James) Illingworth, Brent Hutchcroft, Brady Hutchcroft, Joshua Ryan, Emily Ryan, Caleb (Megan) Biroschik, Alexandria “Ally” (Evan) Young; eleven great grandchildren, Kylie (Spencer) Sahm, Camden (Michael Husemann) and Blake Henkels, Charlee, Dylan and Logan Remakel, Lily and Oakley Biroschik, Jameson Illingworth, Parker Hutchcroft; Harvey Jess; and one expected; one expected great-great-grandchild; sister Phyllis (Bill) Jaeggi; brother-in-law Thomas (Rosemary) Remakel; and two sisters-in-law Phyllis Remakel and Suzanne (Lance) Hurst.

She was preceded in death by her parents; spouse; infant son, Roger Remakel; her in-laws, Michael and Adella (Zimmer) Remakel; sisters, Marie (Wayne) Oliver and Bernice Knoll; a brother, James (Margaret) Kendall; in-laws, Vincent Remakel, Mary Ann (Wayne) Miller, and Patricia Lawler; her nephew and godson, Kevin Lawler; and her niece, Karen Pins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Assisi Village, Stonehill Communities, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank the staff of Assisi Village, Dr. Bland and his staff, and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care.

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

James Menadue

James “Banjo” Menadue, 84, formerly of Dubuque, IA died Monday, December 29, 2025, in Cumming, GA.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for James will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque where full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6.

James was born September 15, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Charles and Gladys (Sawvel) Menadue. On September 13, 1973, he married Sharon A. Donath. She preceded him in death on February 23, 2007.

He was enlisted in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves for 16 years.

James worked for the Dubuque Packing Co. for 43 years. He was an organizing member of United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 150A. James collected hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations over the years for his union brothers and sisters who had encountered personal hardships, such as loss of a spouse or a child, loss of a home or medical debt.

James was deeply proud of his service to his country in the United States Navy. He held a lifelong love for the outdoors and wildlife, finding great enjoyment in hunting and fishing. A lifelong and passionate Green Bay Packers fan, his dedication to the team was well known. While living in an independent living facility in Georgia, James took an active role in his community by facilitating a men’s charity club that raised significant funds for local causes. James shared a love with Sharon for their dogs, Lady, Bear, Angel and Scruffy. Above all, James found his greatest joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include two sons, Jay (Andrea) Menadue of Cumming, GA, and Patrick (Michelle) Menadue of Sun Prairie, WI; one daughter-in-law, Natalie Menadue of Auburn, GA; eight grandchildren, Tiffany, Catherine, Zeb, Kevin, Michael Anthony, Michael Joseph, Lucas and Mason; four siblings, Charles, Thomas, Patricia, and Vickie.

Besides his parents and his wife, James was preceded in death by one son, Kevin Menadue; and four siblings, Shirley, Richard “Dickie”, Jacqueline “Squeaky”, and Sharon.

In lieu of plants and flowers, the family requests that memorials be given in James’ name to the Veterans Freedom Center.

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

Edwin J. & JoAnn B. Loeffelholz

Edwin J. Loeffelholz, 93, & JoAnn B. Loeffelholz, 87, of Dyersville, Iowa, both passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at their home.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville where a military service will be held for Ed at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. on Saturday prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa with burial in cemetery where military honors will be accorded for Ed by American Legion Post #137.

Edwin was born on June 11, 1932, at his home farm near Petersburg, Iowa, the son of Frank and Theresa (Putz) Loeffelholz. JoAnn was born on June 28, 1938, on her home farm near Earlville, Iowa, the daughter of Gregor and Cecelia (Bonert) Wulfekuhle. Edwin and JoAnn were united in marriage on August 3, 1957, in Petersburg.

They farmed side by side near Petersburg before relocating to Dyersville in 1986. Edwin was a Korean War veteran and had a strong passion for carpentry. JoAnn enjoyed golfing, and Edwin often joined her—though not with quite the same level of enthusiasm.

Ed and JoAnn are survived by their children: Alan (Margi Goen) Loeffelholz of Granger, IN; Cindy Kluesner of Manchester, IA; Mike (Donna Vorwald) Loeffelholz of Dyersville, IA; Dan (Deb Lammers) Loeffelholz of Susanville, CA; Karl (Kim Krapfl) Loeffelholz of Dyersville, IA; and Jeff (Mary Wagner) Loeffelholz of Waukee, IA; 21 grandchildren: 40 great-grandchildren with two more on the way; JoAnn’s siblings: Joe (Pat) Wulfekuhle and Darlene Szymusik; and JoAnn’s sister-in-law, JoAnn Wulfekuhle.

Edwin and JoAnn were preceded in death by their son-in-law, John Kluesner. Edwin was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Art (Mary Ann), Walter (Frieda), and Donald (Juanita) Loeffelholz; and sisters Viola (Joe) Engelken and Norma (Paul) Tegeler. JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Ernie Wulfekuhle; and a brother-in-law, Joe Szymusik.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Allen Memorial Hospital, MercyOne of Dyersville, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care. Also, thank you to all who offered kindness, food, and support during this difficult time.

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