Obituaries Archive

Sister Dolores Marie McHugh

Sister Dolores Marie McHugh, BVM, 87, died Friday, April 24, 2020, at Caritas Center, Dubuque, Iowa, at the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Funeral Rite of Committal will be Thursday, April 30, 2020, in the Marian Hall Chapel. Burial is in the Mount Carmel cemetery. Mass on Sunday, May 3, 2020, in the Marian Hall Chapel will be celebrated in her memory. The Sharing of Memories will be held at a future date.

From 1984-2000, Sister Dolores Marie served on the BVM congregation’s leadership team, first as vice president and then eight years as president. She ministered as pastoral care coordinator at Mount Carmel in Dubuque, Iowa. She served as superintendent of schools and educational coordinator and consultant for the Diocese of Des Moines. In earlier ministries, she was an elementary teacher at Presentation in Chicago; Incarnation and Holy Family in Glendale, Calif.; and St. Catherine in Kansas City, Mo., where she also was principal.  Sister Dolores served on the Board of Directors for Dubuque Bank & Trust and Clarke University.  She received multiple awards in recognition of her excellence and leadership in the field of education.

Sister Dolores Marie was born on April 24, 1933, in Ambridge, Pa., to Michael Patrick and Mary Catherine Abbey McHugh. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1949, from St. Matthew Parish, Phoenix. She professed first vows on March 19, 1952, and final vows on July 16, 1957.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Patricia McClure, Margaret Huffman, and Eileen Navins; and brothers, John and Frank McHugh. She is survived by a sister Dolores Falconer, Plainfield, Ill.; nieces and nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 70 years.

Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Hwy 35 N, East Dubuque, IL 61025is in charge of arrangements.

William H. Thul

William H. “Bill” Thul, 92, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 26, 2020 at Bethany Home.

Due to world circumstances, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Paul Attah-Nsiah officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Iowa National Guard. Arrangements entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd.

Bill was born on November 21, 1927 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Henry and Mary (Graham) Thul. He attended Loras Academy, graduating in 1945. Bill was an Army veteran of WWII and was one of the participants on the 1st Honor Flight in 2010. On October 16, 1948, he married Suzanne M. Weber at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Bill started a long and successful career with Klauer Manufacturing Company on March 1, 1950 and remained with the family orientated company for 70 years. He had an infectious personality and was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and friend, providing for his family so that his wife of 71 years could remain home with their four children.

Bill was an active member of St. Joseph the Worker parish, the American Legion Post #6 of Dubuque, the VFW, Thunder Hills Country Club, 330 Shooting Society, Squires and the Elk’s Club.

Bill is survived by his wife Suzanne of Dubuque, IA; his children Dr. Thomas (Mary) Thul of Bettendorf, IA, Theresa (Vince) O’Neill of Dubuque, IA, Steve (Jeanette) Thul of Eden Prairie, MN and David (Cindy) Thul of Marion, IA; his grandchildren Nick (Tara) Thul, Shawn O’Neill, Molly (Matt) Lynch, Mallory (Karl) Dolter, Jason and Annie Thul, Bryan (Tayler) Thul, Michael and Katie Thul; his great granddaughters, Audrey Thul, Neillia Dolter, Ava Lynch, and a great granddaughter due in June; and his brother Jim (Marion) Thul of Great Falls, Mt.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Lindsay Thul.

In lieu of flowers, a William H. Thul memorial fund has been established c/o 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002. The donations will be distributed to Bill’s favorite charities.

The Thul family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and support.

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

Isabella R. Auer

The soul of Isabella Rose Auer, 17, was called home to Jesus on April 28, 2020, after courageously battling DIPG, a terminal brain cancer, for almost one year. Isabella offered her sufferings and carried her cross with humble quietness, grace, and dignity. Just hours before passing she was Anointed and given the Apostolic Pardon.

Due to covid 19 regulations, public services will not take place.  Private Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 2, 2020 at St. Mary Catholic Church in East Dubuque, with the Divine Mercy Chaplet in song prayed before the Mass, with Fr. Peter Sneig officiating. The family will livestream the Chaplet and Mass beginning at 10:40am on Isabella’s facebook group: Inspiration for Isabella: Fight DIPG. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Key West, IA.  A public Memorial Mass will be planned at a later date.

She came into this world on December 4, 2002 with a crown of dark waves and sparkling blue eyes, a precious gift on loan from God, to David and Misty (Fischer) Auer.  She was baptized at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque and received the Sacraments of Confession, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation, at St. Mary Catholic Church in East Dubuque.  She received most of her education at home, where her heart was. She was very committed to learning and was on track to graduate with a GPA over 4.0. Losing her ability to focus and learn as well as she had before, was one of her greatest crosses.

Isabella was passionate about her faith and never shied from sharing it with others.  She made friends with the Saints at a very early age and she spent much of her toddler years dressed as Mother Mary.  The family takes comfort in the hope that she is now face to face with some of her most beloved heroes and heroines.  Family was very important to her and she cherished time spent with her parents and three younger brothers who were her very best friends. Isabella was an “old soul” with a deep love for learning and the arts.  She loved to read, and devoured books.  As a homeschool student, she would read and reread her school material “just for fun.” Tolkien was her favorite author and he inspired her to dream of becoming an author herself.  Upon learning of her diagnosis she set forth to self-publish a fantasy book, Daughter of Kings,  which she had written when she was just thirteen years old. A few months later, she and two of her friends compiled a collection of short stories and poems written by Catholic Youth, and self published Pens Set Aflame: An Anthology of Poetry and Prose, with the proceeds from sales going to EWTN. Given more time, it is certain she would have published more work.  She also dreamed of attending a Newman Guide recommended college, becoming a wife, and most of all, a mother.  The family hopes she is enjoying her Eternal reward “mothering” many, entertaining the angels and saints with her sarcasm and wit, filling notebooks with new ideas, admiring her Creator’s great artwork, and basking in His great love for her.  May her soul bring many souls to Him. May she be living her very own “happily ever after,” in the greatest story ever written.

Isabella was a beloved daughter and a wonderful big sister.  She will be greatly missed by those whom she leaves behind; parents Dave and Misty Auer; brothers Gabriel, John Paul, and Emeric Auer; and companions with fur Bosco and Joy, all of Dubuque.  Her grandparents, Lee and Cathy Fischer, of Guttenberg, IA; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by two preborn siblings, Michael Maximilian (2007) and David-Helen (2019); paternal grandparents Dr. George and JoAnn (Lake) Auer; and a paternal aunt Lisa (Auer) Hagen.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road is in charge of arrangements.

The family would like to thank their friends, family, and community for all of the prayers and support they have received throughout Isabella’s illness. Prayer warriors, you have carried us through this.  Special thanks to all of the spiritual fathers who have offered prayers, support, hospital visits, and the Sacraments.  Thank you in particular to our parish pastors (new and old) Fr. Sneig, Fr. Smith, and Fr. Parker, for your prayers visits and administration of the Sacraments.  Thank you also to Fr. Navarro for your visits and for hearing her confessions and bringing her Holy Communion. Thank you to Fr. Barch for administering to her in her final hours. Thank you to her team in Iowa City, especially Drs. Sato, Stevens, and Buatti; Kristi Foster; nurse Jenna and all the 11th floor nurses. Nana Banana and Sara Lee, you will always be in our hearts. Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially our nurse, Kristin, and social worker, Amy.

Thomas R. Steffen

Thomas Robert Steffen, 75, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, April 28, 2020, at the ManorCare Health Services in Dubuque.

Our dear dad, grandpa and brother deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday May 2, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Thomas was born October 18, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert Henry and Lucille M. Jansen Steffen.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran.

He worked at John Deer Dubuque Works.

He enjoyed walking the trails and driving.

Survivors include one son, Brett (Janet) Steffen of Marion, IA; one daughter, Lynn (Scott) Groth of Cedar Rapids, IA; four grandchildren, Brenden, Caden, Samantha, and Allison; two brothers, Jim (Karilyn) Steffen of Dubuque, and Bobby Steffen of Watertown, WI; and one sister, Paula Kerscheiter of Port Byron, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Thank you ManorCare, Hospice of Dubuque, and the VA Hospital in Iowa City for taking special care of Tom.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Tom’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Lois M. (Haxmeier) Deppe

Lois M. (Haxmeier) Deppe, 91, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at Mill Valley Care Center.

Private Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, April 30, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Funeral Mass will be live streamed on St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook Page, Youtube Channel and Bellevue Cable TV. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Lois was born August 20, 1928, the daughter of Louis and Catherine (Wanderscheid) Haxmeier. She marred Ardell J. Deppe on October 31, 1948 in St. Donatus, he passed on December 11, 2017. Lois and Ardell farmed all their married life west of town on Mill Creek Road.

She took much pride in her son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lois enjoyed cooking, planting flowers, quilting, and playing UNO with her great-grandchildren. She made the best butter horns and bread pudding and always made sure everyone was fed well. Lois also enjoyed golf cart rides and spending time with her family. Lois will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her son, David (June) Deppe; grandchildren, Brian (Tammy) Deppe and Craig Deppe; great-grandchildren, Paige Deppe, and Taylor Deppe; siblings, Betty (Gerald) Koos, Joanne (Herbert) Ernst, and Gerald (Carol) Haxmeier; and a sister in-law, Millie Haxmeier.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings, Donald (Marilyn) Haxmeier, Mary (Donald) Helmle, Wayne “Bud” (Mildred) Haxmeier, Shirley (Joseph) Ernst; and sisters and brothers in-law, Lester (Frances) Deppe, Francis (Marcella) Deppe, Cletus (Florence) Deppe and Luella (Bud) Hughes.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the Hachmann Funeral Home c/o Lois Deppe Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA 52031. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Charlotte R. Danner

Charlotte lived 98 wonderful years, always thinking of others and greeted everyone with a smile. She was well-cared for by her children until she met the Lord at home on April 27 surrounded by her family.

Private mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2020 at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions the funeral will be live streamed on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Please LIKE the funeral home Facebook page to view the funeral. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Born in Farley, Iowa on December 28, 1921 to Bartholomew & Kathryn (Duffy) Crimmins. She attended St. Joseph’s Key West Elementary School and graduated from St. Columbkille’s High School in 1938.

Charlotte married Joseph A. Danner, Jr. on November 23, 1945, at St. Joseph’s Key West.  She worked as a bookkeeper for 20 years for Business Supply Company.

She was an active member of St. Joseph’s Key West Church, where she served on several boards & committees throughout her life and still active with the Renew Group that she enjoyed.  She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America #1287, served as grand regent, Dubuque Serra Club, Theresians of Dubuque, Associates of the Presentation Sisters, and the ACCW where she served as past president.  She also volunteered at Mercy Hospital, Power of Prayer, Lantern Center, and with Hospice of Dubuque. Awards received Governor’s Award, St. Columbkille’s Alumni Award, Our Lady of Good Council Award, Hospice Volunteer of the Year in 1995.

With all her activities she always kept family first, attending family events and supporting her grandchildren in their activities.

Charlotte is survived by Kathy Petitgout, East Dubuque, IL, Joe (Vicki) Danner, III Dubuque, Kris (Jeff) Clough, Largo, FL, Janet (Rod) Farrey, Dubuque, Judy (Mike) Meyer, Dubuque, Carol (Mike) McMullen, Cascade.  17 grandchildren:  Beth Petitgout, Andy Petitgout, Lisa (Earnest) Stevenson, Jennifer (AJ)  Gorrell, Gretchen (Chad) Steines, Laura (Travis) Gleason, Ben (Holly Jonsson) Clough, Matt (Maddie) Farrey, Dave (Karina) Farrey, Greg (Thais) Farrey, Michael (Sarah Asare) Farrey, Debbie (Jason)  Ohrt, Nick (Meghan) Meyer, Dan (Lisa Nguyen) Meyer, Megan (Casey) Redmond, Nate McMullen, Morgan McMullen: 20 great grandchildren Maya Danner, Malik Stevenson, Macy Stevenson, Aidan Gorrell, Molly Gorrell, Caitlyn Steines, Dylan Steines, John Paul Gleason, Quintin Gleason, Anna Charlotte Gleason, Ana Clara Farrey, Rosalie Farrey, Austin Ohrt, Emmaleigh Ohrt, Brady Ohrt, Gannon Ohrt, Charlotte Ohrt, Harrison Meyer, Graham Meyer, Elsie Rose Redmond.

Preceded in death by her husband Joseph on May 21, 1980, a grandson Luke Petitgout in 1986, son-in-law Mike Petitgout in 2011.  Her siblings: Doloras (Bill) Hendricks, Donald (Mary) Crimmins, Jean (Quinten) Foust, Mary (Emil) Danner and Walter “Bub” (Shirley) Crimmins.  In-Laws:  Catherine (Harry) Thielen, Marquerite Yourell, Harold (Arlene) Danner, Harriet (Paul) Meyers, John Danner.

We want to thank DD, Jess, Minerva, granddaughter Maya and Hospice Nurse, Kristin for their great care.

Cards and memorials may be sent to 2 Julien Dubuque Drive, #14 Dubuque, IA 52003.

“All is well”

Gene L. Neuses

Gene L. Neuses, 81, of Dubuque, died Monday, April 27, 2020, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Our dear husband, dad, grandpa and friend deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, May 1, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The service will be available for viewing shortly after the Mass is concluded at www.hskfhcares.com.

Gene was born February 22, 1939, in Dubuque, the son of Ray and Frieda (Klein) Neuses. On May 30, 1964, he married Mary McDermott in Dubuque.

He spent his youth in Sherrill and attended SS Peter and Paul grade school in Sherrill and St. Pat’s High School in Cedar Rapids. He was a graduate of Loras College.

In early years Gene worked at Dubuque Pack, and built silos.  He began his career as an accountant with Fahey and Toohey CPA Firm. He retired from Charles Bailly and Company in 1996 at age of 57.

Gene was a long time parishioner of Church of the Resurrection, since 1967.  He loved playing Euchre so much he became an expert as anyone who ever played with him knows.  He loved his candy and sweets and being involved in planning and attending surprise parties. He liked having a garden to tend to and canning his own fruits and vegetables. He always loved getting together with family and friends to visit and play cards.  He enjoyed taking lots of rides by his home place in Sherrill and Balltown. His favorite T.V. show was Impractical Jokers.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; children, Cindy Simpson of Dubuque, Gary Neuses of Dubuque, Susan (John) Haas of Sherman, TX, David (Dawn) Neuses of Memphis, TN, Cathy (Bob) Siegel of Newport Richie, FL, and Jodi Anthony of Newport Richie, FL; grandchildren, Jacob Simpson, Alex Simpson, Dylan Simpson, Thomas Neuses, Samantha Neuses, Jasmine Haas, Allie Neuses, Ethan Siegel, Liana Siegel, Cameron Anthony, Nikolas Anthony, and Nathaniel Anthony; his brother, Jim (Rosie) Neuses of Dubuque; a sister, Betty Mango of SC; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Thomas Neuses.

The family thanks Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, Cozy Corner, Dr. Moore and Dr. Korth for all their special care of Gene.

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 Gene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Sister Loretta (Mercedes) Finnerty, O.P.

Melrose A. Stodden

Melrose A. “Mel” Stodden, 79, of East Dubuque, IL passed away on April 22, 2020 in Texas.

Private mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Rev. Greg Bahl officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions the funeral will be live streamed on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Please LIKE the funeral home Facebook page to view the funeral. A celebration of her life will be at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Mel was born on April 16, 1941 in Galena, IL the daughter of Fred and Rose (Hudson) Schuller. She married Francis Ahlers and worked at AY McDonald Company for 26 years.

She enjoyed spending winters in Texas and love her grandchildren and her dogs.

Mel is survived by her husband Francis “Jack” Ahlers, of East Dubuque, IL; eight children, Steve (Deb) Stodden, Geneseo, IL, Dave (Christina) Stodden, of Phoenix, AZ, Karl (Angie) Stodden, of Galena, IL, Karla Stodden, of Hazel Green, WI, Mike (Stephanie) Stodden of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, Deb (Todd) Allison, Cape Coral, FL, Kathy (Bill) Amweg, Huntsville, OH, and Pam (Josh) Knight, of Newhall, Iowa. Twenty-eight grandchildren, ten great grandchildren; two sisters Carol Kieffer of Scales Mound, IL, and Laura Lindsay of Shreveport, LA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son Terry; siblings, Elma Greene, Betty Darnell, Francis Schuller, Mary Troust, Marge Reifsteik, and Harold Schuller.

Rick “Klink” J. Klinkhammer

Rick “Klink” J. Klinkhammer, 54, of Balltown, died at 4:30 PM Saturday, April 25, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family.

Our dear husband and dad deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 29, 2020, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Balltown with Rev. Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery. The service will be available for viewing shortly after the Mass is concluded at www.hskfhcares.com.

Rick was born July 6, 1965, in East Dubuque, IL, the son of Charles “Chuck” and Janet (Reichart) Klinkhammer. On July 5, 1997 he married Lisa Duehr, together they shared many wonderful years.

He recently celebrated twenty five years working for Leibold Irrigation, where he was able to travel across the United States working at all the top golf courses.When not working, Rick enjoyed spending the early morning hours on the golf course pond, always knowing where the “honey holes” were. When home he liked to hunt, although he’d be the first to tell you how redneck you were if you ever cooked it up and ate it. He was also a member of the Balltown Lions Club. He was a devoted family man who did everything he could for them. For anyone that had the pleasure of meeting Rick, you are sure to never forget him. He had a joke for everything and always made you laugh and smile, he was the life of the party.

Survivors include his wife, Lisa Klinkhammer and their four children, Miles, Alexis, Vada and Sunday; a daughter from a previous marriage, Heather; 2 brothers, Rob (Leslie) Klinkhammer of Epworth, Tim (special friend Kelly) Klinkhammer of Millville; a sister Julie (special friend Harold) Robinson of Monticello; and many other loving family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Lisa’s parents, LaVern and Mary Duehr both of Balltown; his aunt Sharon Roling of Worthington and an uncle, Ed Klinkhammer of Dubuque; brothers in-law, Mick Robinson, Ray and Nicolas Duehr, and one nephew Logan.

The family would like to thank their family members, specifically Tony and Amy Duehr, thank you for being there when our family needed you, we are forever greatful. As well as, our many neighbors and friends that reached out to us during this short, but difficult time. Mike and Cindy Breitbach of Breitbach’s Country Dining, thank you for providing meals for our family. John Leibold of Leibold Irrigation, thank you for EVERYTHING you have done. Thank you to Dr. Mark Hermann and Tony Heiar, ARNP and their staff, especially to Misty, for taking such great care of Rick. Lastly, the nurses and staff and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melanie for their excellent care.

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 Rick’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Arthur L. Eudaley

Arthur Leroy Eudaley, 75, of Dubuque, died Sunday, April 26, 2020, at his home.

There will be no services. Please be with Art’s family in prayer.

Art was born November 3, 1944, in Dubuque, the son of Alton and Eileen Kruser Eudaley. On August 10, 1968, he married Jeanne M. Scherbring in Dubuque.

He was a graduate of Wahlert High School.

Art worked at Dubuque Pack/Farmland for 40 years.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He enjoyed bowling and golfing, and was a member of Lacoma Golf Club. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanne; one son, Jeff (Sarah) Eudaley of Dubuque; two daughters, Carrie (Greg) Babberl of Williamsburg, IA, and Shelby Eudaley of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Tyler Eudaley, Samantha Eudaley, Katelyn Babberl, and Allie Babberl; one sister, Mary (Bill) Blatsas of Greece; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Cindy Eudaley, and his father- and mother-in-law, Richard and Frances Scherbring.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Art’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Lyle R. Link

Lyle Richard Link, beloved husband, brother, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on April 25th, 2020 and has gone to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

A private service for immediate family will be held at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church. A memorial dinner for friends and relatives will be held at a later date. Private burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Funeral will be escorted by the Dubuque Fire Department and military honors will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. You may live stream the funeral mass at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 30th, 2020 on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Please LIKE Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory on Facebook to view the funeral.

Lyle was born on January 28, 1927, the son of Reuben and Irene (Richard) Link.

Lyle grew up in Dubuque. He went to Sacred Heart grade school and graduated from St. Columbkille’s High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1945 and spent the majority of his time in Italy during WW II; he was honorably discharged as a Sargeant in December of 1947. He met the love of his life, Nellie Chapman, on a blind date and they were married on September 12, 1953 in St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

In his younger days, Lyle loved to go fishing, hunting, boating and bowling. He coached his daughter’s softball team for numerous years. He could be found watching the Chicago Cubs or Chicago Bears whenever they were playing. He would never miss a good game of Euchre. He was an avid golfer and longtime member of Lacoma Golf Course.

Lyle worked in a variety of industries in the Dubuque area including Morrison Brothers, the Milwaukee Railroad for eight years, Battery Factory, Flexsteel Industries, Clean Towel Service and Sanitary Dairy before joining the Dubuque Fire Department where he retired after 28 years as a Captain

Never one to be idle, Lyle also worked numerous part-time jobs including C.P. Welu & Ed Dissell Filling Stations, Dubuque Community Schools, Roshek’s Department Store, and the Regional Transit Authority (RTA). Lyle was also a locksmith for several years.

He is survived by his wife Ellen (Nellie) Link; his five children, daughters Jeannie Omel, Sue Burdt (Jim), Mary Beth Montgomery (Ken), Lori Welu (Ed) and son Steve Link (Kris). He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Jeff Beecher (Rick), Sara Burdt, Christopher Welu, Katie Link, Alex Link, Staci Shaw (Michael), Meg Tyree (Tim) and great grandchildren Keyonta, Jakobe, James and Jasiah Burdt, Jamison Shaw and Alex Tyree. He is also survived by his siblings Helen Kelleher and Ken Link (Sandy) and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law, John Omel and a granddaughter, Renee Burdt.

The family of Lyle would like to say a SPECIAL thank you to The Hawkeye Care Center and their AMAZING staff. Special thanks to Angela and EVERY single employee of the Memory Care Unit for their compassion and wonderful care. Also, a sincere thank you to Hospice of Dubuque.

Thomas G. Dicklin

Thomas G. “Tom” Dicklin, age 78 of Galena, Illinois, completed his earthly journey on April 23, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.  To honor Tom’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

 Tom was born on December 6, 1941 in Zanesville, Ohio, 1 of 6 children to Edward and Ruth (Dahlman) Dicklin.  Tom grew up with an insatiable curiosity to learn, while systematically developing his natural abilities to understand how anything mechanical or electrical worked, and eventually shared his talents with enthusiasm throughout the world around him.  After graduating from high school, Tom joined the U.S. Air Force and spent 5 years honorably serving his country.  He met his beautiful bride, Gisela Banas, while on the base in Germany and the two were eventually united in marriage in August of 1964.  They were blessed with 3 boys who would undeniably carry Tom’s legacy and innate abilities forward in their own lives.  Tom spent most of his working career in the computer technical services with NCR, but did opt to move into early retirement when it was offered.  He and Gisela then decided to move to the Pacific NorthWest, where Tom soon found himself working at Boeing to help keep his time and mind occupied.  He enjoyed his 2nd career, but eventually chose to slow down once again and moved to the Galena Territories to be closer to his grandsons.  

Tom was a very social man who could easily make a new friend in a room full of determined strangers.  He enjoyed the finer things in life, but also appreciated the simple pleasures as well.  An afternoon on his motorcycle was always a welcomed option, but gathering with family and friends for a little water skiing, hiking in the Cascades, or salmon fishing in Puget Sound could also make his day complete.  His evenings brought the opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s activities, but a few hands of poker with his friends was never rejected, and any time to convey and reinforce with his boys the truly valuable commodities in this life (such as being able to renovate your own home, treating others with compassion, or simply traveling to the many corners of the world to learn how others live and behave outside of their own comfortable circles) was always among his favorite ways to pass some time.  Tom’s impact on the world he leaves behind has been quite intentional, while making it appear to be almost effortless.  His desire to be the best man he could be, while hoping for the same in others whom he was fortunate enough to interact with, are the staples of his mission in life.  Using every moment possible to leave the world around him in just a little better condition than when he arrived was where Tom found his satisfaction.  We will miss our dear husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, and we pray for peace in our hearts and minds until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tom include, 

his loving wife of 55 years,
Gisela Dicklin, Galena, Illinois;

 his 3 sons,
Ronald (Bridget) Dicklin, Sunland, Washington,
Marc (Mary) Dicklin, Galena, Illinois,
and Thomas P. (Ana) Dicklin, Santa Cruz, California;

 his 2 adored grandsons,
Nicholas T. Dicklin and Joseph R. Dicklin, both of Galena, Illinois;

his siblings,
Mary Ann (Larry) Oberhofer, Sarasota, Florida,
Judith Gwizdala, Rockford, Illinois,
Ruth Huff, Waterford, Virginia,
and John (Christine) Dicklin, Carmel, Indiana; 

his brother-in-law,
Mike McLay, Juneau, Wisconsin;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members,  friends and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Patricia Smitz; his sister-in-law, Marion McLay; and 3 brothers-in-law, Jerry Huff, Peter Gwizdala and Donald Smitz.

Tom’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, and the University of Iowa Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care and support. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Tom’s name may be made to Mercy One Medical Center, Dubuque; University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City; The American Melanoma Foundation (melanomafoundation.org), or Stevens Johnson Syndrome Foundation (sjsupport.org).

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

Eugene D. Granahan

Eugene D. Granahan, 88, of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.  Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, private Graveside Services will be conducted at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.  A public Memorial Mass will be held at a later date.

Eugene was born October 17, 1931 in Howard County, Iowa, the son of Dennis and Lucille (Musel) Granahan.  Eugene served his country in the US Army during the Korean War.  He married Marjorie Engelhardt on October 5, 1957 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Chester, Iowa.  The family lived in the country south of Bellevue from 1970 until moving into town in 1976.  Eugene was a farmer,  and a meat inspector.  He enjoyed reading and watching sports.  He was a longtime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Bellevue Knight of Columbus Council 1354.

Survivors include his wife Marjorie; children, Gerry (Pam) Granahan of Loveland, CO, Barbara Schroeder of Bellevue, and Gayle (Kevin) Smith of North Myrtle Beach, SC; grandchildren, Timothy, Erin, Michael, Christopher (Brittanee Bohannan), Steven (Jessica), and Timothy (Sarah); great-grandchildren, Jakob, Eloise, Ethan, and Levi; siblings, Dorothy (Patrick) Hurley, Joe, James (Betty), Bill (Karen), Tom, and Don (Donna) Granahan; and a sister in-law, Ione Meyer.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert; a sister in-law, Jackie and a brother in-law, Robert.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the Eugene D. Granahan Family at 206 S. 6^th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

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

Madonna C. Knockle

Madonna C. (Erner) Knockle, 99, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA., surrounded by her family.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will not be having a public memorial at this time.   A celebration of Madonna’s life will be held at a later date.

Madonna was born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1921 in East Dubuque, the daughter of William J. and Alvera M. (Roth) Erner.  She was a graduate of St. Josesph’s Academy, the class of 1940.  Madonna was united in marriage to Julius J. “Dude” Knockle on November 28, 1940 at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque, he preceded her in death on January 2, 1975.

She was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Parish and its Altar & Rosary Society. Madonna formerly was employed at Roshek’s Dept. Store, Armstrong’s and Shamrock Imports until her retirement.

She loved doing calligraphy, working with ceramics creating many artistic pieces, her cats, the color blue, trips with her friends, and driving her car into her early 90’s. Shopping was on her weekly to do list.  Madonna looked forward to receiving calls, cards and visits from her two nieces, Kathy and Mary and their husbands, Denny and Dale, and cousins Merla and Eugene.

She is survived by her three children, Sharon Kramer of East Dubuque, Sandra Bertsch (significant other Glen Callahan) of Dubuque and Gary (Carol) Knockle of Peosta, Iowa; a blended family of 9-grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 1-great-great grandson, James Steven Cavanaugh.

Madonna was preceded in death by her parents, William and Alvera, her husband, Julius “Dude”, two sons-in-law, James Kramer and James Bertsch, a great-grandson, Danny Kuhle, her sister, Eva (Francis) Verbugt, nephew, Dean Verbugt; and in-laws, Annabelle (Clem) Carbine, Walter (Bernice) Knockle, and Milton (Ina) Knockle; and her special cats, Princess and Roach.

Sharon, Sandy and Gary wish to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care provided to their Mother.

A Madonna C. Knockle memorial fund has been established and may be sent to: Sharon Kramer, 18360 Kramer Rd., East Dubuque, IL 61025.

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