Obituaries Archive

Rita A. Baker

Rita A. Baker, age 89, of Asbury, IA, completed her earthly journey on Nov. 10, 2024, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows, while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Rita’s life, a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Rd, with Rev. Matthew Agee Officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship prior to the service from 9:00-11:00 a.m.  Burial will be in the Linwood Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rita’s family.

Rita was born on March 18, 1935, in Nordholz, Germany, a daughter to Paul and Erna (Struhs) Neugebauer.  As a young woman who spoke no English, she crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the MS Italia in August of 1955 to pursue the American dream.  She eventually met her soulmate, John F. Baker, and the two were united in marriage and blessed with many wonderful years together and a blended family of their very own to love and nurture together.

Rita possessed an amazing work ethic and faithfully utilized it until she was 84 years old.  She found great joy in the knowledge that she was able to pass this trait along to her 5 children as well.  Rita was our fiercest champion and always provided unconditional love to her family and friends.

Her Euchre skills were unmatched, although her son-in-law’s often accused her of cheating.  Rita never lost a game of Yahtzee to her grandchildren, although her math tabulations often drew close scrutiny. No family gathering was complete without Rita’s homemade German Potato Salad, which affectionally became known as “Heaven in a Pot.”

She enjoyed her work at Ring’s Restaurant and eventually made her way to Fashion Touch Dry Cleaners where she spent over 42 years and made many lifelong friends along the way.

Even though she never had a driver’s license, Rita taught all her children to drive and was lovingly referred to as a human Garmin as she could navigate her way across the U.S. without any issues.  Her son-in-law even took the approach to nickname his Garmin, Rita, in her honor.

Rita’s grandchildren absolutely loved and adored her without hesitation.  They cherished being part of “The Clan” and all the love she bestowed upon them each and every day of her life.  We will miss Rita more than words could depict, but we can be sure that Heaven has gained a very bright light today while our world appears just a little dimmer without her among us.

Those left to cherish the memory of Rita include,

her five children,
Deborah (Michael) Clemens,
Barbara (Jeffry) Potts,
Steve (Jerry) Koeller-Hamel,
Donna (Rodney) Clemen,
and Kevin (Tracy) Koeller, all of Dubuque, IA.

her grandchildren,
Tracy (Dan) Gurdak, Tammy (Eric) Dupont, Austin (Tracy) Clemens, Kathryn (Jason) Clarke, Abigail (Blaine) Bertsch, Alexander Potts, Kelly (Brian) White, Kyle (Lindsey) Clemen and Alexis Koeller;

her great-grandchildren,
Rylan Mours, Riley Dupont, Landon Dupont, Monroe Clarke, Ledger Clarke, Clara White, Charlie White, Annie White, Penelope Bertsch, Gwendolyn Bertsch, Wren Clemen, Grady Clemen, Crosby Clemen, Maeve Clemens, and one more arriving soon in Jan. of 2025.

her sister,
Paula Rettinghaus, Nordholz, Germany;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John F Baker in 2018; and her brother-in-law, Horst Rettinghaus.

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

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

Wayne D. Noel

Wayne D. Noel, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on the morning of Sunday November 10, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Church of the Nativity.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church with Rev. Steven Audu officiating. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Wayne was born on April 19, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Ralph and Bernice (Vandermillen) Noel. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Audrey Falk, on August 23, 1954, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. Wayne worked at the Dubuque Packing Company.

Wayne was a man of many passions, with a deep love for hunting, fishing, and playing cards with friends—especially as the best euchre partner around. A dedicated member of the Dubuque Bird Dog Club, he cherished the outdoors and spent countless hours making memories with his beloved wife, Audrey, in their beautiful garden. Their yard was truly a showcase of their hard work and shared love for gardening. Wayne adored his family, especially enjoying stories about his grandchildren, and had a soft spot for his pets. His warmth, loyalty, and love for those around him will always be remembered.

Wayne is survived by his seven children Jeff Noel, Karen (Kevin) Hawks, Scott Noel, Kelly Noel, Angella Vail, Polly Dzugan, and Chris (Cassandra) Noel, 25 grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Audrey, parents Bernice and Ralph, brother Carl Noel, and sister-in-law Katie Noel.

The family wishes to thank the Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque nurses and staff for all their care, love, and compassion for dad. Thank you!

Charlann L. Townsley

Charlann L. Townsley, 88, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024, with family at her side, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, IA.

Charlann was born on August 28, 1936, in Clinton, IA, the daughter of Walter and Evelyn (Jacobsen) Townsley.

She graduated from Clinton High School and worked for the Job Corp and as a feature writer for several publications before moving to Dubuque. While in Dubuque, she worked for the City of Dubuque in the Planning and Zoning Department. She moved to Tucson, AZ, in 1984 to be close to her mother. In Tucson, she worked as a legal secretary.

She had many passions, foremost was her family, but she also enjoyed teaching children about the arts through Lucy Ladybug Learning Inc. She also loved writing songs about the Mississippi and the towns along the river as the Mississippi River Lady.

Surviving are her children Brian (Lisa) Blodgett of Concordia, KS, Joe (Kathy) Blodgett of Dubuque, Susan (Randy) Kessel of Ames, IA, and James Blodgett (Susan Staley) of Dubuque, as well as her son-in-law James McDougall of Townsend, TN. She had eight grandchildren: Matthew, Noah, Clare, Andrew, Kerry, Katie, Carissa, and Kylie, and a great granddaughter, Eleanor.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Richard Townsley, and her daughter Michelle McDougall.

A celebration of Life will be held at a later date, per her wishes.

Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, and Crista Weber for their loving care.

Tony J. Carr

Tony J. Carr, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday morning, November 10, 2024, after a ten-year battle with cancer.

Tony J. Carr was born on July 10, 1957, Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Jerry “The Ole Cherokee” and Billie Jane (Bocklett) Carr.  He grew up in Cedar Rapids and after receiving his high school diploma attended Kirkwood Community College where earned an Associates of Applied Science degree in Water and Wastewater Management.  He married Judy M. Widel on August 20, 1994 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Tony was deeply committed to his work. He served the City of Maquoketa as the Water and Wastewater Superintendent from 1988 until 2007. His dedication to public service continued as he took on the role of Public Works Director for the City of Asbury, Iowa, where he worked until his retirement in 2019.

He was an avid lover of the outdoors, often found soaking up the sun and boating on the Mississippi River. His love for music was profound, with a particular fondness for Rock-N-Roll hits from the 70s.

Those left to honor Tony’s memory, include his wife, Judy Carr of Maquoketa, IA; children, Travis Carr of Palo, IA, Emily Carr of Newhall, IA, and Alicia (Matt) Dee of Shellsburg, IA; 8 grandchildren; siblings, Jack Carr of FL, Stacy (Reba) Carr of FL, and Kitty (Tom) Carr of FL; and in-laws, John and LeAnn Widel, Dick and Beth Widel, and Joyce and Rich Majerus.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Mike Carr.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., Saturday, November 23, 2024, in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Mary K. Randecker

Mary Kathryn “Kathy” Randecker, 87, of Galena, IL, died at 8:42 AM, Sunday, November 10, 2024, at the Midwest Senior Care Center, Galena. Visitation will be held from 1 to 4 PM on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. A parish rosary will be recited at 12:30 PM before the visitation. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Monday, November 18, 2024, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10:30 AM until the time of mass. The burial will be in the church cemetery.

Rosemarie Reno

Rosemarie Reno, age 76, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on November 5, 2024, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Rosemarie’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rosemarie’s family.

Rosemarie was born on September 3, 1948, in Wiesbaden, Germany, a daughter to Rudolf and Louise Eichhorn.  She was a genuinely kind and sweet soul through and through who made her way to the United States at the age of 18. Rosemarie eventually found the love of her life, David Reno, and they enjoyed all that life was together hand in hand until he was sadly called home ahead of her.  Rosemarie loved and adored her family with all of her being and did spend some time outside of the home as a hostess at the Diamond Jo, but those who knew her best were always aware that her heart resided contently right back at home with her family and friends by her side.

Rosemarie embraced life to the fullest and never passed up an opportunity to enjoy a new adventure whenever it presented itself.  Her interests were multifaceted to say the least.  Rosemarie and David both invested countless hours raising birds and perfecting their green thumbs daily.  Their Cocktail’s lived a happy and healthy life for over 30 years under their care and the plants and flowers they curated were truly the envy of the neighborhood.  Rosemarie also valued her time with her dear friends in their “Knit n Chat” group.  When she sat down with Maureen, Amy, Lana, Susie, and Judy to literally hand spin wool sheered directly from the sheep, there was no greater accomplishment to be gained.  Their conversations were as productive as their skills and so many others benefited from their commitment, not only locally, but across the globe.  Many of their creations made it overseas to those in need and to this day the hats and gloves made from beginning to end with true devotion are a tangible reminder of the legacy of selfless love which Rosemarie leaves behind.

Rosemarie was also quite gifted in the kitchen and when the scent of her homemade bread and handmade soaps permeated the air, everyone knew she was in her happy place.  Unfortunately, the only delicious treat she couldn’t make on her own was her favorite, a Dairy Queen Blizzard, but they were always worth a trip down the street to savor a little well-earned treat after all of her tasks were complete for the day.  To say that Rosemarie made the world a better place simply with her presence within it would be the understatement of the year.  Her heart rarely thought about herself and her own needs, but rather what she could be doing with her time and talents for others continually.  We accept that Rosemarie has now taken her favorite canine companion, Kindle, for his last walk in their mortal realm and we thankfully find peace in knowing that her earthly health battles now subside.  To know Rosemarie was to love her and that love never returned void.  We will miss her more than words could say and are forever grateful for the 76 years the Lord was generous enough to share her tender spirit with us all.  Thank you, Rosemarie, for never allowing the world around you to stifle your purpose and for teaching us all that putting others first never fails and is worth the effort every single time it’s tried.  May the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rosemarie include,

her three adored daughters,
Jennifer (fiancé Troy Hansen) Bradley, Dubuque, IA,
Melissa Schute, Cedar Rapids, IA,
and Dorothy Bradley, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Nickolas Brimmer, Sylvia Edwards, Christina Schick, Adam Edwards, Kyle Arling, Will Billmeyer, and Josh Mercado;

her six great-grandchildren;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, David Reno; and two sisters, Hannelore and Uta.

Rosemarie’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Rosemarie and her family.  We would also like to extend a very special heartfelt thank you to our family friend, Chris Schute, for going above and beyond during Mom’s last days.  All of the love and support we were so graciously given when it was needed most has truly been a gift we could never truly repay and for that we are eternally grateful.

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

Janice G. Lietz

Janice G. Lietz, 82, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, November 9, 2024, MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Janice Geraldine Garien was born on February 9, 1942 in Green Island, Iowa, to John and Helen (Brewster) Garien.  She grew up in the Reeseville area and graduated from Miles High School in 1960.  She married Lester H. Lietz on May 29, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Michael and Barb.

Janice was a homemaker and had lived in Maquoketa her entire adult life.  She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  She enjoyed reading and word finds.  Additionally, she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandson.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Michael Lietz of Maquoketa, IA, and Barb (Chad) Meyer of Maquoketa, IA; 3 grandchildren, Christian Dundee, Destiny Dundee, and Michelle Meyer; 1 great-grandson, Braxton Roden; and siblings, Bob “Junky” Garien of Maquoketa, IA, Judy Garien, Lois Kilburg, and Patty Garien.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lester on July 18, 1986, and a brother Charlie Garien.

A celebration of her life will be held at 12 P.M., Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11 A.M. to 12 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Janice G. Lietz memorial fund has been established.

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

Douglas A. Trentz

Douglas Alan Trentz, 61, of Oxford Junction, Iowa passed away Thursday evening, November 7th, 2024, at his brother’s home in Dubuque while surrounded by friends and family. He was a tough, resilient fighter and had battled cancer for 8.5 years.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. The visitation will be followed by a celebration of life at Happy’s in Dubuque from 6:00-10:00 PM. Come ready to eat, drink, dance and share stories.

Doug was born on November 25, 1962 in Dubuque, Iowa to parents Bruce and Joan (Lary) Trentz of Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1981, and then went on to college at Iowa State University. Doug was the Quality Assurance Manager at Loparex in Iowa City and worked with the company for 28 years.

Doug loved to bike (and had many bikes including road bikes and a fat tire bike), he completed RAGBRAI countless times and enjoyed riding the Pedaler’s Jamboree with his kids Ashley and Alex. This last Ped Jam he was also joined by Sophie and Jake. It didn’t matter if it was summer or winter, riding alone or with the many, many biking friends he had made throughout the years, Doug always enjoyed the ride. He was known to get the dance floor started, and almost always had his music turned up loud at home. Doug was a huge Iowa State Cyclone fan and had football season tickets with Alex.  He was a talented runner and hurdler in his younger years, and proved he still had it while running hurdles with Ashley once while she was in high school. He was introduced to camping and mushroom hunting by his dad, and then continued to enjoy these hobbies with his children in later years. He enjoyed growing a garden each year and was a phenomenal cook.

Doug is survived by his two children, Ashley (Jake) Trentz of Mineral Point, Alex (Sophie) Trentz of Milwaukee, his brothers Tom (Cindy) Trentz of Maquoketa, Mike Trentz of Maquoketa, Tim (Angie) Trentz of Dubuque, and Todd (Kara) Trentz of Dubuque, 9 nieces and nephews, 2 great nieces and nephews, 5 aunts, 1 uncle, as well as countless lifelong friends

He was preceded in death by his parents Bruce and Joan Trentz, uncles John Lary, Gene Lary, Bill Trentz, Bob Trentz, Mark Steingreaber, and aunt Beverly Trentz.

Sr. Thecla Cain, OSF

Sister Thecla (Dorothy) Cain, OSF of the Sisters of St. Francis, 3340 Windsor Ave, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 10:53 a.m. Friday, November 8, 2024 at Clare House.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans

Burial of cremains will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born November 8, 1928 in Remsen, IA to James and Maria (Murphy) Cain. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1946 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1952. Sister received her master’s degree in education from University of Portland, Portland, OR. She ministered in Iowa at Manchester and in Dubuque at St. Mary and Colette Center. Sister was also missioned in Portland, OR, St. Cloud, MN, Omaha, NE, and Austin, TX.

Sister is survived by her sisters Gladys Daniels and Veronica Hotovec, nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Stephen (Rita) Cain, Thomas (Mary Margaret) Cain, Sylvester (Patricia) Cain, Rev. James Cain, and Rev. John Cain; and brothers-in-law Anthony Daniels and Duane Hotovec.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, 3390 Windsor Ave, Dubuque, IA.

Miller Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Neil J. Winger, Jr.

Neil J. “Jack” Winger, Jr., age 69, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at home.  In keeping with Jack’s wishes there will be a celebration of his life held at a later time.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Jack’s family.

Jack was born on July 28, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Neil and Mary (Kueter) Winger Sr.

Jack loved drawing, meeting new people and had a very kind heart.  He was a master woodworker and put that knowledge to work at Four Mounds.  He taught woodworking, made canoes out of trees and several desks.  Jack could make just about anything out of wood.  He was also an avid fisherman in his free time.  Jack loved his daughters, grandchildren, the love of his life, Corrine and his beloved cats, 19 year old Hyms and Flanagan.  He will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Jack’s memory include

his girlfriend,
Corrine Ploessl, Dubuque, IA;

2 daughters,
Athena (Jeff) Lilly, Pauls Valley, OK
and Kassee (Eric) Sturdivant, Shady Shores, TX;

3 granddaughters,
Stella, Josslynne and Jovie Sturdivant;

a grandson,
Ethan Winger;

his siblings,
Julia (Rick) Von Ah, Florida,
Randy Winger, Texas
and Tim Winger, Dubuque, IA;

a niece and 3 nephews,
Jessica (Todd) Davis, Jamie, Jeremy and Josh Winger;

and many cousins and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; and many aunts and uncles.

Jack’s family would like to thank Dr. Andrew Bland and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care.  Also a special thanks to his cousins, John, Janie, Jerry and Patty Winger for their love and support.

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

Grady Ivy

Grady Ivy, 77, of Dubuque, died peacefully Friday, November 8, 2024, knowing his vote counted.

Grady was a true Texan, born in Dallas on March 11, 1947. He lived there (in his heart) most of his life. He truly loved Texas; graduating from Grady Spruce High School in Dallas, Texas where he was offered a football scholarship at the University of Colorado. He later transferred to East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas where he continued to play football, graduated, married, and welcomed daughter, Kelly. His Bachelor’s of Business Administration led him to work for Price Waterhouse where he became a CPA. In this capacity he worked for various communication companies including Harte Hanks and Buford Communications; all while working on his MBA at the University of Texas in Tyler.

Tyler is where he met Coletta Ruppe, his wife of 41 years on the racquetball court where he won her over. In 1987 they moved to Dubuque where Grady worked for Woodward Communications as the Chief Financial Officer. In 1989 Grady and Coletta received their son, Clinton Joseph, with open arms and delighted in watching him grow. Grady was Clint’s best friend and together they spent many hours on the golf course. Grady retired in 2009 and continued to enjoy trips with family and friends to Copper Harbor, MI every summer. He and Coletta also enjoyed winters spent in Tyler with family and friends, especially those from Quitman.

Survivors include his loving wife, Coletta; his son, Clint; three grandchildren, Garrett, Preston, and MaKenna Torea all of Little Elm, TX; one son-in-law, Hugo Torea of Little Elm, TX; and their two very active beagles, Tucker and Axel.

Grady was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kelly Ivy Torea; and sister, Rita Willett.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 4:45 PM on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Grady will be at 5:00 PM on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home with Deacon Jim Luksetich officiating. Immediately following the service, there will be a celebration of Grady’s life at the Dubuque Golf and Country Club.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the nurses at Stonehill, especially Aspen, Denver, Natalie and Amber; Hospice of Dubuque; Paramount Ambulance; and the Dubuque First Responders.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Dubuque Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.

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

Keith D. Deutmeyer

Keith D. Deutmeyer, 59, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Lutheran Home in Strawberry Point.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate with Rev. Carl Ries concelebrating.

Keith was born on August 10, 1965, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Raymond “Jim” and Rita (Klostermann) Deutmeyer. He graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1984 and was employed at Country Junction in Dyersville for 29 years. Keith was a lifelong member of St. Francis Xavier Basilica.

Survivors include his siblings: Jo Ann (Jim) Young of Cedar Rapids, Janet (Jerry) Nadermann of New Vienna, Carla Deutmeyer of Guttenberg, Loras Deutmeyer of Guttenberg, Lois Campbell of Olathe, KS, Sheila (Joe) Harrison of Lenexa, KS, Dean Deutmeyer of Denver, IA, and Dennis (Connie) Deutmeyer of Cedar Rapids, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Fred Deutmeyer, and a nephew, Kenneth Nadermann.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Croix Hospice of Strawberry Point.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Elaine L. O’Toole

Elaine L. (Gassman) O’Toole, age 103, died at Bethany Home in Dubuque, IA, on Sunday, November 3, 2024.

Elaine was born in Dubuque on January 23, 1921, to William and Edith (LaMour) Gassman.  She was the first of their 5 children.  Elaine graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1938. Before her marriage she worked for Key City Gas Co. as a stenographer and billing clerk.  She also worked for Roshek’s Department store as a seamstress.

Elaine married her high school sweetheart Roger O’Toole at Nativity Church in Dubuque on April 14, 1941. After Roger’s service in World War II and a brief residency in Waterloo, IA, they moved to East Dubuque in March of 1951. Elaine and Rog raised 8 children in that home until June of 1985 when they retired to Mesa, AZ. With Rog’s health growing fragile, they moved back to Dubuque in September of 1994.

She is survived by her children, Sharon (Dave) Kieffer of Menominee, IL, Linda (Dean) Arnold and Teri Alamano all of Loveland, CO, Julie O’Toole (Jerry Glasco) of Sacramento, CA, Beth McMurchy (Renee Franz) of Waverly, IA, and Patrick (Kathy) of Weaverville, NC; her sister, Dianne Vance (Klaus Sanders) of Sun City, AZ, her daughter-in-law, Jolene Miller O’Toole of Madison and her sister-in-law, Joan Gassman of Dubuque.

She was blessed with 21 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren and 13 great great-grandchildren.

Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband Roger, 2 sons, Michael (Kay) O’Toole of Scottsdale, AZ, and Kevin O’Toole of Madison, WI, her sister, Virginia Keller, her brothers, Gerald and Allen Gassman.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, with Fr. Phil Gibbs officiating. The family will greet friends at 9:30 a.m. with mass beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Bethany Home or Hospice of Dubuque.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

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

Anna L. Stromberg

Anna Louise Stromberg, “Weezie”, of Galena, IL, died October 17, 2024, at Saint Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI.

She was born January 16, 1934, to Ray and Leota Ball, of Belleview, IL. Having lived many years in the Chicago land area, she moved to the Galena Territory in the mid 1980s together with her husband, Dr. William B. Stromberg Jr., later moving into Galena after his passing.  She was a member of Galena Bible Church, a dedicated student of the Bible, and regularly volunteered in church activities and at the Tri-State Christian School. She loved entertaining, enjoyed watercolor painting, knitting, and writing poetry to share with family and friends. Weezie is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Kevin Aves, grandchildren Rachel, Aaron, and Ethan, as well as many close friends she counted as family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her brother, James Ball.  A memorial for Louise will be held on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Galena Bible Church.

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

Mary Lou Hutton

Mary Louise “Mary Lou” Hutton, 83, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024, surrounded by family at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa.

Mary Lou was born on February 25, 1941, in Monticello, Iowa, the daughter of Jerome McClain and Celestine “Sally” McClain Kirk.

Growing up on her beloved “Lincoln Avenue” in Dubuque, Iowa, she graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in 1959. Mary Lou started her career at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque and worked there until it merged with Mercy Hospital in 1981, where she then remained until her retirement in 2008.

On January 27, 1962, Mary Lou married the love and laughter of her life, Sherman “Skip” Hutton III. Together, they were blessed with four children.

Besides spending time with her loved ones, Mary Lou had a passion and talent for creativity. She spent her free time making beautiful crafts, sewing, quilting, crocheting, and painting, all of which led her to being a vendor for several years at Dubuque’s Ice Harbor Emporium, as well as helping create the sets for the Xavier/Mercy Follies for several years. She hit the craft-show circuit around the Tri-State area for many years, where people looked forward to having a “Mary Lou Original.” She loved gifting family and friends with her creations, as well as teaching those talents to whomever wanted to learn.

Mary Lou also cherished family gatherings and friend get-togethers filled with euchre, puzzles, bingo, books, board games, and Hallmark movies. Her laughter filled our hearts, and her kindness touched everyone she met. She will be dearly missed by all who loved her.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents Jerome and Sally, her stepfather Melvin “Mike” Kirk, her loving husband Skip, her father- and mother-in-law Sherman Jr. and Lillian Hutton, her brothers-in-law Michael “Mick” Hutton and John “Jack” Burgmeier, and her sisters-in-law Connie Hutton and Patricia “Pat” Burgmeier.

She is survived by her children David (Judy) Hutton, Stephen (Michelle) Hutton, Ann (Kimball) Behning and Sara (Steve) Bye; grandchildren Ryan (Ashley), Alex, Adam (Kelly), Peter, and Joshua Hutton, and Riley and Brady Bye; great-grandchildren William, London, Oliver, Beckett, Adrian, and Charlotte Hutton; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Dr. John Whalen; Resurrection Parish and staff, especially Deacon Jim and Mary Schmidt and Deacon Mike Ellis; and a special thank-you to her neighbors Rick and Sharon Kasper and Mike and Sandy Ellis for always being there when she needed you.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, November 13, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, in Dubuque, with Fr. Phil Gibbs officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, Hill Street, East Dubuque.

Family and friends may call on Tuesday, November 12, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, at Miller Funeral Home, 1185 IL-35, East Dubuque, and also on Wednesday, November 13, from 9:00 to 10:15 AM before the service at the church.

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