Obituaries Archive

Georgia P. Sakas

Georgia Peter Sakas peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 18.  She will be interred at the Guttenberg City Cemetery and the family will have a private remembrance later this year.

Georgia was born September 8, 1926 in Rockford, Illinois to Peter & Helen Retsinas. She was the fourth of six children in a close-knit Greek family.  She was a beautiful little girl who was gifted with a superb singing voice and began performing as a child.  Georgia was the solo opening act for the Three Stooges at the Orpheum Theater in Rockford and the Stooges were so impressed with young Georgia they used her in one of their skits.  After high school graduation she continued singing and starring in performances while attending Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music.   She married Basil Sakas in 1952. Basil and Georgia moved many times with Basil’s jobs before settling in Ft. Collins, Colorado in 1968.  They were blessed with two wonderful children, Lisa and Peter.

Georgia was an elementary music teacher, substitute teacher, choir director, home maker and volunteer.  She and her husband were 40+year members of the Ft. Collins Golf & Country Club.  Realizing early on “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” she learned to play golf and loved it, playing in the ladies leagues for many years.

Georgia was a devoted wife, mother and YiaYia (grandmother) and enjoyed caring for her family in many ways.  She was a great cook and was known for her pies and Greek pastries which she shared with friends and neighbors, especially at the holidays.  After Basil’s passing in 2006 she moved to Dubuque and lived with her son and daughter-in-law, Peter and Ginger Sakas.  While in Dubuque she made new friends, volunteered at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and spent time at Cozy Corner Adult Daycare where she made a best friend in Arlene. Lastly, she made Luther Manor her home where she enjoyed the music entertainment, activities and friendly staff.  She was fortunate to have a sweet roommate Diane, who became a special friend.

She will forever be remembered for her beautiful smile, humor and love of people. No one ever left her presence without a big warm hug.

Georgia is survived by her daughter Lisa Wolkin (Doug) of Parker, Colorado and her son Dr. Peter Sakas (Ginger) of Dubuque.  Her grandchildren, Sydnee Sakas and Elly Ahr (Artie) of Dubuque, Avery Hadzi (Jean), Michael Sakas, Ben Sakas and Zane Wolkin all of Colorado.  Two great grandsons Arthur and Wilder Ahr of Dubuque.  She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Nora Retsinas of Tucson, Arizona and Elsie Sigalos of Chicago, Illinois and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Basil, her parents and parents-in-law, her siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Luther Manor for their care and friendship to Georgia.  She loved you all and enjoyed her time with you.  The family would like to also thank Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and guidance.

Abbie I. Mormann

Abbie I. Mormann, 94, of Colesburg,  Iowa passed away Monday, January 20, 2020, at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 2-7 p.m., Friday, January 24, 2020, at St. Patrick’s Parish Center in Colesburg.  Visitation will continue from 9-10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish Center prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 25, 2020, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Colesburg, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Jim Goerend will officiate.

Abbie was born February 14, 1925, in Petersburg, Iowa, the daughter of Gregory and Alvina (Bockenstedt) Lammers.  She married Arthur Mormann on   June 10, 1947 at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg.

She enjoyed gardening, cards, visiting with anyone she met, and spending time with her family. She was blessed with great patience and the ability to socialize with anyone.

Survivors include her four children, Lawrence “Larry” (Joyce) Mormann, of Worthington, Wayne (Mary Sue) Mormann, of Colesburg, Shirley (Darrell) Lindauer, of New Vienna, Daniel (Sandy) Mormann, of Colesburg; 16 grandchildren, and 37 great grandchildren;  siblings: Irvin (Eloise) Lammers, of Guttenberg, Carol Ann (Lester) Simons, of Colesburg; a sister-in-law, Karen Lammers, of Anamosa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur on July 3, 1995; a son, Gary on May 6, 2017; a great granddaughter, Grace Mormann on December 16, 2007; siblings, Alice (Lavern) Knipper, Mildred (Vernon) Helle, Vanita (Ralph) Knipper, Gladys (Purl) Lake, Lavern Lammers, Donald (Peggy Digmann) Lammers; in-laws: LuVerne (Catherine) Mormann, Evelyn (Elmer) Geistkemper, Walter (Jean) Mormann, Agnes (Melvin) Mensen.

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

Victoria S. Fischer

Victoria S. “Vicki” Fischer, 85, of Bernard, Iowa passed away Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 24, 2020 at Holy Family Church, New Melleray with Rev. Rodney Allers and Deacon Loras Weber officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 23, 2020 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

Vicki was born on February 5, 1934, in Dubuque the daughter of Victor and Helen (Berwick) Walech. She married Albert Fischer on October 25, 1958 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque, and together they farmed in the Bernard area until retirement. She also worked at Ennoble Manor and was a member of the Holy Family Parish and the Rosary Society.

She loved children and especially loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She and her sister Betty were especially close especially in their later years. They fulfilled a lifelong dream when they took a trip together to visit their ancestral home in Luxembourg, Germany.

She is survived by her three daughters Lauri (Mike) Kinsella, of Bernard, Dianne (Dale) Weber, of Saint Donatus, and Karen (John) Jesenovec, of Farley; seven grandchildren, Marty (Rachel) Kinsella, Traci (Tim) Mosiman, Dan (Katie Hale) Kinsella, Dustin and Dylan Weber, Heather (Ryan) Earles, and Kaitlyn (Austin) Schwendinger; 8 great grandchildren with one on the way; sisters, Marie Hansel, Betty Murphy both of Dubuque; special niece Jan Kueter of Durango; one brother, Leo (Mary Jean) Walech, of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Albert on Feb. 22, 2014; twin brothers in infancy and two brothers-in-law Bob Hansel and Louis Murphy.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque especially Paul & Peggy, and to the nurses and staff at Grand Meadows Luther Manor, especially Connie, for all the loving care they gave to our mother and grandmother.

Eileen Beaves

Eileen (Ryan) Beaves, 89, of Dubuque died Sunday, January 19, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.  Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Church of the Resurrection.  Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Eileen was born February 10, 1930 in Dubuque, daughter of Joseph and Alice (Lynch) Ryan.  She was a graduate of Visitation Academy. She worked part time at May’s Drug Store in Dubuque.

On September 30, 1950 she married Theodore “Ted” Beaves at St. Joseph the Prairie Catholic Church.  He preceded her in death on January 22, 2015.

She was an active member of Resurrection Parish and a member of Catholic Daughters of America.

Eileen is survived by six children, Carol Beaves of West St. Paul, MN, Ted (Deb) Beaves of Dubuque, Ann (Tom) Hanson of Manchester, Mary Jo (Bill) Einwalter of Farley, Julie (Mike) Dunn of Dubuque and Michael (Lisa) Beaves of Ankeny; 16 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sister, Kay Steuck of Dubuque and in-laws, Geri, Gail and Andrea Ryan and Peter (Margaret) Beaves.

Eileen was also preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Paul, Ray and Bill Ryan, brother in law, Bob Steuck and in laws, Mary Ellen and Jim Kadra, Richard and Gerry Beaves, Charlotte and Bill Hanley, George and Dorothy Beaves and Jack and Veronica Murphy.

For further information, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Memorials may be made to the Eileen Beaves Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staffs at Stonehill Franciscan Services and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care.

Carol M. Defendi

Carol Marie Defendi, 76 of Dubuque Iowa was called home to the Lord on January 12, 2020 at home, surrounded by the loving embrace of her children.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2020 at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 24th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a rosary will be said at 6:45 p.m.

Carol was born on March 24, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Ronald and Helen (Keppler) Nennig. She graduated from Wahlert High School and attended NICC in Peosta for nursing. Carol drove bus for the Dubuque Community Schools and was a Registered Nurse at SunnyCrest Care Facility.

She married Cyril W. Oswald in June of 1964 and he preceded her in death. She later married Albert J “Duke” Defendi in September of 1991, and he preceded her in death.
Carol was an incredibly strong woman, her faith was never broken, her love for her family was unconditional and her home was her foundation. She loved her friends, gardening, being out in nature, cutting down the occasional tree and burning an always too big burn pile. She craved spending as much time with her kids and grandchildren as possible. She was a loyal friend, trustworthy spouse and an extremely loving and forgiving mother.
In her later years her passion for gardening took over. If you would stop by the house you would find her taking care of her plants and her numerous flower gardens, feeding her birds out back or spending 3 or more days cutting her grass. On Friday’s she helped clean the church with Rosie and made sure they always hit the “DQ” before they went home. She always talked about how fun it was and joked that she would eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch AND dinner if she could and never have to cook again. Eat ice cream mom, everyday, for breakfast, lunch AND dinner.

She is survived by her two children, Kristina (Jason) Clausen, of Waukee, Iowa, and Brian (Teri Collins) Oswald, of Des Moines, Iowa. Grandchildren, Madison and Zachary; her brother John (Teresa) Nennig, of Independence, Iowa; brother-in-law William Whitters along with many loving nieces, nephews.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Ruth Mary Whitters husband, Cyril W. Oswald; husband, Albert J “Duke” Defendi.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

If it wasn’t for these incredible people and organizations, we would not have been able to fulfill mom’s wishes as she continued along her journey. They include, John & Teresa Nennig, Corrine and Bob Schatz, Rosie Nolan, Jennifer Klein, Hospice of Dubuque, and Home Instead.

Cletus Steger

Clete Steger, 82, of Balltown, died Sunday, January 19, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM Friday, January 24, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Clete will be 10:30 AM Saturday, January 25, 2020, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Balltown with Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery.

Clete was born November 4, 1937, on the family farm in Balltown, the son of Louis and Edwina Klein Steger. On September 5, 1959, he married Joanne Sahm in St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary surrounded by family.

Clete retired from John Deere Dubuque Works and was the Chief Executive Officer of the Steger Century Family Farm in Balltown, overseeing the operations until his final day. Due to his tireless work ethic, he and Joanne were proud to support and encourage their children to learn and succeed, and for this they are forever grateful. He loved to be outside, farm, tell stories, “run from the cops” in his red convertible, and most of all, spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed one last snowmobile ride on the day of his death, which always put a smile on his face.

Survivors include his wife, Joanne; one son, Steve (Kathy) Steger of Balltown; three daughters, Laura (Dan) Clemen of Holy Cross, IA, Julie (Dan) Slattery of Waunakee, WI, Amy (Tony) Duehr of Balltown; 10 grandchildren, Kelsey (Chad) Hill, Gina (Will) Osmanski, Nicole Clemen, Maria Steger, Kyle Steger, Zachary Steger, Samantha Slattery, Ellen Slattery, Olivia Duehr, Jack Duehr; two great-grandchildren, Haylee and Harper Hill, two brothers, Billy (Donna) Steger and Jerry (Connie) Steger both of Dubuque; one sister, Mary Ann (Allen) Lex of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, Arnold (Lillian) Steger.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque. They would also like to thank the Sherrill Fire and Rescue Department and Good Samaritan, Ron for stopping to help Joanne.

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

Catherine C. Oberfoell

Catherine C. “Katie” (Dressler) Oberfoell, age 80, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:34 a.m., on Sunday, January 19, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Katie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m. To honor Katie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, January 24, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Katie was born on March 11, 1939, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, daughter of Joseph and Mamie (Udelhoven) Dressler.

Katie was united in marriage to the love of her life, John Oberfoell, on October 22, 1960, in Lancaster, Wisconsin.  The two were blessed with 55 years and 7 children together before John was sadly called home ahead of Katie on April 10, 2016.  Katie would fully embrace her full time role as wife, mother and homemaker, but in later years she would also enter the workforce with Luther Manor.  In her free time Katie enjoyed attending Bingo with her friends, sitting quietly concentrating on her latest crossword puzzle book or working a jigsaw puzzle with her granddaughter, Alexis.  Family, however, always brought the greatest joy into her days, she loved spending time with John and the kids and was especially excited when the grandkids came along!  We are saddened at losing our wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister and friend, but take some comfort in knowing that she is now happily reunited with her beloved husband for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish Katie’s memory include

her 7 children,
Barbara (William) Kirshner, Killeen, TX,
Brian Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Cynthia Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Charles Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph (Denise) Oberfoell, Sherrill, IA,
John “Chico” (Robyn) Oberfoell Jr., Mineral Point, WI
and Sam Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA;

her 9 grandchildren,
William Kirshner, Jacob Kretz, Andrew (Natalie) Kirshner, Spencer Oberfoell, Kyra (Kenneth Biays) Jaeger, Stephanie Oberfoell, Logan Oberfoell, Jonah Oberfoell and Alexis Oberfoell;

her great-grandchildren,
Brooke Ann Kirshner and 1 more expected soon;

and her siblings,
Alma Morris, Blacksburg,VA,
Rose (Herbert) Koppen, Sherrill, IA,
Bernadette Thole, Fennimore, WI,
Claire (Calvin) Churchill, Houlka, MS,
Bernard (Theresa) Dressler, Lancaster, WI,
Clement Dressler, Lancaster, WI
and James Dressler, Lancaster, WI;

and a brother-in-law,
Floyd Churchill, Tennyson, WI.

Katie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John Oberfoell; her sisters,
Sr. Anna Marie, Virginia, Theresa, Agnes (Edward), Mary and Joan (David); and her sister-in-law, Jean Dressler.

Katie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital for the wonderful care they provided to Katie.  Also thanks to her sons, Charles and Sam, for helping Mom to remain in the home she loved so much.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

Doris (Grosser) Trausch

Doris (Grosser) Trausch, 95, of Dubuque, passed away at home Friday, January 17, 2020, surrounded by those who loved her dearly.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, January 24, 2020, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush St., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. Friday, at the church.  Rev. David Schatz will officiate. Entombment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum, Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque.

Doris was born July 14, 1924 in Dubuque, twin daughter of Leona (Kimmick) and Harry Grosser. She was raised in her beloved hometown of Potosi, Wisconsin. She graduated Valedictorian from Potosi High school in 1942. After working one year in an ammunition plant in Milwaukee, Doris returned to Dubuque to attend the Mercy School of Nursing, graduating second in her class in 1946. She worked in the Mercy Hospital surgery department following graduation.

Doris married Arthur N. Trausch Jr. on October 18, 1947 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. They were married 63 years before Art’s death in 2010. After they married, Doris settled into her role as devoted wife and mother. Doris created a beautiful household, which included nine very active children. Doris’ family meant the world to her.

Doris had a deep appreciation for her Catholic faith. She was a faithful member of St. Columbkille Parish for over 72 years. She was a member of Theresians and St. Blanche’s Mother’s Club. She was a member of the Visiting Nursing Association and helped inaugurate the first VNA Charity Ball. She was also a charter member of the Mercy Hospital Service Club.

Doris had an inquisitive mind. She will be remembered for her amazing and precise memory, her gift of conversation, her proud Potosi heritage, her spirited Euchre playing, her master stitchery and organizational skills, her gentle and kind heart, and her unconditional love for her family.

Doris is survived by her nine children and their families: Nick (Sara) Trausch, of Lake Bluff, IL, and their children, George (Kristy), Peter (Liz), Henry and Brian; Rick (Lori) Trausch, of Dubuque, and their children, Shanna and Samantha (David); Jamie (Anne) Trausch, of East Dubuque, IL and their children Luke, Kelly, and Ben (Allison);  Kris (Tim) Gallagher, of Dubuque, and their children, Tim Jr., Kelly, and Ryan; Tim Trausch, of Rochester, NY, and his children, Libby and Drew; Susie (Kevin) Green, of Paradise Valley, AZ, and their children, Conor (Quanah), Courtney (Martin), and Caitlin (Brian); Tricia (Don) Boegel, of Plymouth, MN, and their children, Brittany, Jacob (Ashley), Taylor (Maura) and David; Megan (Scott) Morris, of Mequon, WI, and their children, Matt, Sam, Rachel and Adam; and Amy (Tim) Smith, of Dubuque, and their children, Olivia (Boyd), Colin, and Charlie; and five great-grandchildren, Drake, Lucy, Leo, Miles, and Sawyer.

In addition to her husband, Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her twin sister Dorothy Kortes; and another sister Kathleen Puls.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Doris’ appreciation of church and service, memorials may be given to St. Columbkille Catholic Church and Mercy Hospital Service Club.

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

Jane C. Evers

Jane C. Evers, 78, of Dyersville passed away on Monday, January 20, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held 2 – 8 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Saturday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2020, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Jane was born on Feb. 18, 1941, and was the daughter of Harland and Mary Dolphin of Cascade.  She graduated from Capri Cosmetology School in Dubuque and went on to cutting hair professionally.  She married Gary F. Evers on Feb. 5, 1964, in Cascade.  Together, they owned and operated Evers Toy Store for more than 20 years in Dyersville.

Jane was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, and had a strong faith in God.  She enjoyed camping trips with her husband, Gary, and their friends, along with visiting family members out of state.  Jane also enjoyed attending Joyce Meyer conferences with her daughter, seeing her grandchildren grow up, having daily chats with her friends over coffee at Groovy Grounds, and walking laps at the Rec Center.  Those who knew Jane knew her to be selfless, gentle, and kind.

Survivors include her children: Paula Evers of Dubuque, Aaron (Tess) Evers of Indianapolis, IN and Bradd Evers of Hoffman Estates, IL, a daughter-in-law, Kristi Evers of Eden Prairie, MN; 9 grandchildren: Erik, Zachary, Craig, and Kenny Evers, Emily, Haley, Brooke, and Gabby Evers and Benjamin Evers, and a grand-dog, Josie; siblings: Bridgitte Dunigan of Asbury and Vince (Alyce) Dolphin of Cascade; and a sister-in-law, Betty Evers of Guttenberg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Gary in 2004, her son, Scott in 2017, and 2 brothers-in-law: Donald Evers and Jim Dunigan.

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

Patricia A. Pfab

Patricia A. “Patty” Pfab, age 65, of Dubuque, gave Cancer the finger one last time on January 17, 2020, at home with her children.  To celebrate Patty’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, January 24, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Patty was born on November 20, 1954, in Dubuque to Rita (Shaffer) and Anthony Pfab.

In her younger years Patty was a stay at home mom, entering the workforce in 1988, at Bethany Home, where she cared for their residents until she became ill.

Patty was a humble woman who didn’t require a lot to make her happy.  She loved her family dearly.  She had a dry sense of humor and quick wit that couldn’t be matched.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, reading, solving puzzles in all forms, boutique shopping, sightseeing and traveling.  Patty was a caring and generous person, always going above and beyond to help those in need.  She treated her co-workers and residents as if they were her own family.  Patty will be missed tremendously by all who were blessed to have known her.

Those left to cherish Patricia’s memory include

her children,
Jamie Pfab
and Johnelle (Calvin Patters) Pfab;

her 6 grandchildren,
Ashley, Bianca, Desiree, Rachel, Joseph “J.J.” and Calliope “Callie”;

her 2 great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Donna (Dave) Doerr,
Dollie (Greg) Kohnen,
Sally (Marty Sommer) DeMuth,
Joe (Lisa) Pfab,
Tony Pfab Jr.,
Dennis Pfab,
Donnie Pfab
and Brian Pfab;

2 special cousins,
Sandy Schueller
and Barb Lindecker;

and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Patricia was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Pfab; her father, Anthony Pfab; her “second mother”, Alice Voels; and her long time companion, Leo McAvoy.

We wish to thank The University of Iowa Healthcare Oncolgy and Neurology department, Dr. Janes and his team at Mercy One, Dr. Engelman and Dr. Schroeder and their teams at Medical Associates, and Nicole, Megan, Amy and Ryan at Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent care and treatment of Patty.  We also want to thank the entire staff of Bethany Home, not only for being excellent co-workers and friends, but also as care givers and assistants to us and our Mom during our most difficult time, we couldn’t have done it without you.  Last, but not least, we wish to thank our entire network of friends, family, co-workers and employers from near and far.  Your visits, gifts, food, free car rentals and late night chats are so greatly appreciated; you will be forever in our hearts.  A very special thank you to Viola “Babe” McLaughlin; your friendship with Mom meant so much to her, thank you for spoiling her!

-When the morning comes and takes me, I promise I have taught you everything that you need.  In the night you’ll dream of so many things, but find the ones that bring you life, and you’ll find me. ~ by Nothing More.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities, The Veterans Freedom Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Francis A. Hermsen

Francis Ambrose Hermsen, 88, Manchester, Iowa, passed away Monday, January 20, 2020, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He was born July 22, 1931, in Farley, to Frank and Olive (Schaul) Hermsen.

On September 10, 1957, Francis was united in marriage to Inez Goedken at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg. Seven children were born to this union. They farmed near Masonville. In 1998, the couple retired to Manchester.

Francis was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, Catholic Order of Foresters, and Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed watching Iowa Hawkeye basketball and St. Louis Cardinal baseball and was an avid Euchre player.

Francis is survived by his wife, Inez of Manchester; children, Allan (Ann) Hermsen of Manchester, Gary (Nancy) Hermsen and Kevin (Bev) Hermsen, all of Masonville, Julie (Brian) Buckallew of Urbandale, Jane Oglesby (friend Todd Hines) of Center Point, and Lisa (Todd) Grawe of Urbana; 16 grandchildren, Adam (Renee) Hermsen, Alison (Nate) Kass, Austin (Tiffany) Hermsen, Jes (Ned) Skoglund, Sara Elledge, Matt Hermsen, B.J. (Karli) Hermsen, Jenna Hermsen, Megan (Josiah) Linberger, Nathan Buckallew, Madie (Ben) Lechtenberg, Paige (Nick) Drucker, Ryan Wilkin, Rachel Grawe, Alex Grawe, and Brody Grawe; 12 great-grandchildren, Hudson, Lyvia, Abby, Katie, Lily, Leo, Kyler, Grant, Lane, June, Reed, and Mason, with three on the way; siblings, Rosemary Rahe, Alvin (Doris) Hermsen, and Dennis (Nancy) Hermsen; and siblings-in-law, Theresa Hermsen, Germaine Goedken, Norma Brunsman, Valeria Bockenstedt, Carol (Dale) Clemen, Laverne (Patsy) Goedken, and Marilyn Goedken.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents; son, Loras (1979); great-grandson, Paul Kass; son-in-law, Mike Oglesby; siblings, Elmer (Eileen) Hermsen, Jerry (Betty Gassman) Hermsen, and Clarence Hermsen; and siblings-in-law, Tony Rahe, Gilbert Goedken, Helen (Emil) Wilgenbusch, Stella (Leo) Demmer, Vernon Brunsman, Mary Lou (Elmer) Engelken, Irvin Bockenstedt, John Goedken, and Patty (Marv) Rolfes.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2020, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, with Reverend Gabriel Anderson officiating. The Knights of Columbus will recite the Rosary at 10:30 a.m.

Visitation: 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester, with a private family Scripture service at 1:00 p.m. Friends may also call from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Interment: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery – Masonville, Iowa

Edward E. Small

Edward Ernest Small, 74, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at home, surrounded by family.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, January 24, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 P.M., Thursday, January 23, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, with military honors.

Edward Ernest Small was born on December 12, 1945 in Clinton, Iowa, to Leslie Ernest and Evelyn A. (Scheibe) Small. He was a 1964 graduate of Western Dubuque High School and then served his country in the Navy earning an honorable discharge. He married Carol Nancy Block on September 26, 1970 in Dubuque, Iowa.

Edward first worked for Edward’s Construction Company in Dubuque. He then worked for 44 years as a cement finisher for Bob and Lee Kinsella Construction, retiring in 2012.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing for Big Catfish at Jim Falls, Wisconsin, NASCAR races, going for rides on the side by side, and tractor rides.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Carol Small of Bernard, IA; a son David (and his wife Cristina Montelius) Small of East Dubuque, IL; 2 grandchildren Ben and Evan; a sister, Janice (and her husband Paul) Ruggeberg of Maquoketa, IA; and a brother, Richard “Rick” (and his wife Tammy) Small of Bernard, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother James Small, and a sister Phyllis Turnis.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Edward E. Small memorial fund has been established.

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

Merle Woerdehoff

Merle Woerdehoff, 94, of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2020, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home in Edgewood.

He was born on May 21, 1925, on the family farm in Petersburg to Bernard “Ben” and Henrietta (Klosterman) Woerdehoff. He began his education in the Petersburg Catholic School. The family moved to Edgewood in 1936, where Merle graduated with the Edgewood High School class of 1943.

In August 1943, Merle was drafted into the Army to honorably serve his country during World War II. He saw heavy combat for 28 months with little word from home in the jungles of New Guinea, the Admiralty Islands, and the Philippines. He was discharged in January 1946.

On June 26, 1946, Merle was united in marriage to Norma Schultz at St. Mark’s Church in Edgewood. One daughter was blessed to this union on May 10, 1948.

Merle worked as an electrician with his father-in-law, Bert Schultz, from 1946 to 1947, when he purchased the Shell Dealership that took him successfully to his retirement in 1990. His commitment to his customers and his community was something he took great pride in. He didn’t think twice when a customer called after-hours needing fuel or help and would drop whatever he was doing to serve their needs.

Through the years he was an active member of the Edgewood Commercial Club, served on the board of directors of the Delaware County Fish and Game Association, was a volunteer for the Edgewood Fire Department serving as assistant fire chief, and was a 75-year member of the American Legion Post #512, proudly receiving his Quilt of Honor in 2016.

Merle was an avid outdoorsman, loving to fish and hunt with his family and friends. He also enjoyed playing cards, traveling, and countryside road trips. Merle was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa … a man of quiet integrity who never complained and always found the positive in everything in his life.

Survivors of this gentle man include his daughter, Jacqueline “Jackie” Dee (Warren) Coates of Manchester; five grandchildren, Pam Greer of California, David (Lisa) Coates of Ohio, Crystal (Paul) McMullen of Ryan, Missi Coates Thede, and Corey (Melissa) Coates of Manchester; 11 great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Merle was preceded in death by his wife, Norma in 2012; his parents, Ben and Henrietta Woerdehoff; two brothers, John and Cyril Woerdehoff; and four sisters, Stella (in infancy), Vera Seward, Lola Kies, and Elva Woerdehoff.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Services will be at a later date.

Madonna J. Risley

Madonna J. Risley, 85, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away suddenly on Saturday morning, January 18, 2020 at home, of an apparent heart attack.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 – 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday at the Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Madonna was born on May 30, 1934 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of LeRoy and Bertha C. (Frick) Risley.

She was a graduate of St. Mary’s School, East Dubuque, and Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque. Madonna was employed at Perfection Oil Company in Dubuque for over 50+ years, where she held the position of Treasurer for many years.

Madonna was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and its Altar & Rosary Society, the Secular Franciscans and the Power of Prayer.

Surviving is a brother, LeRoy L. “Buzz” Risley of East Dubuque and a sister, Kay Bonifazi of Unionville, MO; 13 nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and great newphews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, LeRoy in 1955 and Bertha on June 18, 2000, a sister, Dorothy Schwendinger in 1992 and a brother, Rev. L. Thomas Risley on January 22, 2000.

The family wishes to especially thank East Dubuque Fire and Ambulance, East Dubuque Police Dept and the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Dept. for their help and assistance. It was greatly appreciated.

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

Buddy L. Hyde

Buddy Lawrence “Bud” Hyde, 85, of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home. He was born on April 8, 1934, in Garber, the son of Wilbur and Gertrude (Hansel) Hyde. Bud grew up in the Garber area, attended and graduated from the Elkport High School with the class of 1952, the last class to graduate from Elkport.

Following his graduation, Bud worked for a short time for Ashline Motors in Edgewood and also at the Guttenberg Cleaners for a short time. In 1954, he went to work for the Cowie Studio in Elkader. Bud worked there until he was drafted into the United States Army on March 7, 1956. He served his country honorably until March 10, 1958. During this time, he spent 18 months in Germany.

On September 3, 1958, Bud was united in marriage to Mavis Frieden at St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garber. Following his discharge, he returned to manage the Cowie Studios in Elkader and West Union. Bud then worked for McTaggart Furniture where he worked in sales for ten years. In 1973 an opening came up at the Clayton County Clerk of Court’s office. Bud applied for and was granted the position of Trial Court Supervisor, a position he held for 25 years, retiring in 1998. Bud and Mavis made their home in Elkader for 40 years, at which time he retired and they moved to Edgewood where they were both associated with the Leonard-Muller Funeral Home until Mavis’s death in 2013.

Bud was an active member of Trinity Methodist Church in Edgewood, a former member of Giard Methodist Church, and of First Congregational Church in Elkader, as well as St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church in Garber, where he was baptized and confirmed. He was also a former member of the Elkader Jay-Cees, and of the Clayton County Opera House Players. Bud had a great interest in genealogy, having had published a book on the Hyde family as well as on the Hansel family. He also enjoyed reading mystery books and his computer (until something went wrong). Bud’s main interest was his family and he enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors include his son, Mark (Linda) Hyde of Dubuque; two step-granddaughters, Dana Eaton of Dubuque and Allison (Matthew Davidson) Smith of Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin; two step-great-grandchildren, Riley James and Maya Rose; four sisters-in-law, Ladena Mendenhall of Monet, Missouri, LeAnna (Harold) Hanson of Elgin,  Phyllis Frieden of Postville, and Sharnel Frieden of Elgin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Gertrude Hyde; his wife, Mavis Hyde; his half-sister, Betty (Charles) Friedlein; his half-brother, Donald Hyde; and a brother-in-law, Roger Frieden.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Funeral Service:  10:30 a.m., on Saturday, January 25, 2020, at Trinity Methodist Church in Edgewood, with Pastor Mike Jackson officiating.

Visitation:  3:00 to 8:00 p.m., on Friday, January 24, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Edgewood. Friends may also call one hour before the service at the church on Saturday.

Interment:  Edgewood Cemetery  –  Edgewood, Iowa