Obituaries Archive

Dwight J. Miller

Dwight J. Miller, 68, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday and after 9:15 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.
Dwight was born on June 2, 1951 in Dubuque, IA, the son of George W. and Lois J. (Meier) Miller. He was formerly employed at Anderson/Eagle Window and Door in Dubuque, retiring in 2017.

Dwight enjoyed time spent with his five grandchildren, watching the Chicago Bears and he loved going Salmon fishing.

Surviving is his fiancé, Becky Kieler of Dickeyville, WI; his mother, Lois J. Roth; a son, A. J. Miller both of East Dubuque, IL; his siblings, Valerie (David) Clancy and Kathy Roth, both of East Dubuque, Laurie (Ernest) Porche of Kenner, LA, Cindy (Brian) Yoerger of East Dubuque, Ron (Barbara) Roth of Wayland, IA, Brian (friend Jackie Loso) Roth, Jeff Roth and Brett “Gus” Roth all of East Dubuque; his sister-in-law, Glenda Miller; five grandchildren, Taylor, Ryleigha, Avery, Cameron and Sammie Jo; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, George W. Miller in 1951, his step-father, Louis Roth in 1996; a daughter, Jennifer L. Miller in 2019; and three brothers, George Miller in 1994, Bruce Miller and Darrell “Diz” Roth both in 2012.

Dwight’s family expresses deep appreciation to the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care given to Dwight.

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

Thomas J. Welp

Thomas J. “Tom” Welp, 78, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin, formerly of East Dubuque and Menominee, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 19, 2019 while working at the Grotto in Dickeyville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 23, 2019 at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville, with Fr. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of VFW Post # 6455 of Dickeyville. Visitation is from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary/scripture service will be at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday. Friends may also call from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. on Friday at the church.

Tom was born on December 10, 1940 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Frank J. and Rita C. (Schauer) Welp. He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 1958, and a veteran of the U. S. Army serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Tom was united in marriage to Janice Scott on July 31, 1965 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Shullsburg, WI.

He was formerly employed at the Dubuque Packing Co, John Deere Dubuque Works, helped in building bridges with Halvorson Construction Co, ran Welp Landscaping, later he started American Ceiling Co. and the 19th Hole in East Dubuque. Tom in later years was doing maintenance for Holy Ghost Parish in Dickeyville.

He loved working, fishing, hunting and woodworking.

Surviving is his wife, Janice; four children, Brett (Rhonda) Welp, Dan (Ann) Welp, both of East Dubuque, Kevin Welp of Midland, Michigan, and Susan (Shannon) Hoppman of Green Bay, WI; five grandchildren, Brian Welp, Jenna Welp, Jaelyn Hoppman, Braylie Hoppman, and Layna Hoppman; his siblings, Pat (Jerry) Cullen, Platteville, WI, Joyce (Ed) Kuhle, Menominee, IL, Rita (Jim) Schlegel, Dubuque, IA, Glen (Philly) Welp, Cuba City, WI, Gail Welp, Dubuque, IA, Paul (Sara) Welp, Spring Green, WI, Greg (Diane) Welp of East Dubuque, IL, Bud (Esther) Welp of Albuquerque, NM, and Jim (Linda) Welp of Donahue, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Rita, his siblings, Arlene Smothers, Mary Merfeld, Marilyn Welp and Russell Welp.

The family requests everyone wear casual attire for Tom’s visitation and funeral.

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

Marvin (Dick) R. Block

Marvin (Dick) R. Block was born to William and Stella (Brown) Block April 12, 1936 and is the oldest of 6 boys. He grew up in the Cascade and Temple Hill area.

He married Linda Cain at the Elwood Methodist Church on October 8, 1966. They became proud parents of Curtus, Roy, and Kathleen.

He served in the 101st airborne division of the US Army where he was a paratrooper and on the Army rifle team. He was honored to be included on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

Dick owned and operated B-Cap aircraft painting business in Maquoketa where his passion was to paint and restore military war birds. The business was sold in 2000 when he and his wife traveled the United States for 10 years.

He was a licensed private pilot who loved flying and piloted many trips to remote Canadian fishing lodges to fish and bear hunt. An avid sportsman, he enjoyed deer hunting, turkey hunting, fishing and loved telling stories about hunts and the big fish that got away.

He was proud of the family farm where he lived and enjoyed the ponds and wildlife. He hosted the Iowa Governor’s Pheasant Hunt and was an advocate of Pheasants Forever. The Blocks were honored by Pheasants Forever of Clinton County and state of Iowa for Outstanding Member in 1999. He advocated for Iowa’s trumpeter swan restoration project and cared for a pair of adult swans that hatched the first babies in Clinton County in over 100 years. He loved talking and joking with friends and customers.

Survived by his wife of 53 years Linda; children Curtus (Lisa) Block of Ankeny, Roy Block (Amanda Ryan) of New Windsor, Il and Kathleen (Scott) Roberts of Union, MO; grand-children Hunter, Erica, Spencer, Remington, River Pearl, Alexis, Addison, Olivia and Amelia; Brothers Chuck (Darlene) and Eugene (Dianna); brother-in-law Darrell (Lola) Cain and sisters-in-law Carol Cain, Anne Block, Sue Block, and Joan Block as well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceded by parents; brothers William, Lloyd, and Gary; niece Kelleen, brother-in-law Don Cain and granddaughter Ryder.

All are invited to join Dick’s family at the Block Pond on Saturday, August 24th at 2:30pm. A military memorial service will be begin at 3:00pm.

Memorial donations, in lieu of other expressions, can be made to Honor Flight Quad Cities. https://honorflightqc.org/donations/make-gift/

Donald L. Manderfield

Donald L. Manderfield, 70, of Rickardsville, Iowa, passed away Monday, August 19, 2019 at his home in Rickardsville, Iowa.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where services will be held at 1:30 p.m., with Rev. Noah Diehm Presiding.

Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Rickardsville, Iowa.

Don was born July 27, 1949 in Decorah, Iowa, son of Julius and Marie (Schnaeberger) Manderfield. He received his education in the Arlington area schools. He was employed at Walmart in Dubuque, Iowa. He enjoyed spending time with his family.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rickardsville, Iowa.

He is survived by his two brother, his twin, Ronald Lee (Mary) Manderfield of Rickardsville, IA and Jerome Manderfield of Cedar Rapids, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Marcella Manderfield.

Online condolences may be sent to the Reiff Funeral Home at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Virginia M. Williams

Virginia M. Williams, 84, of Iowa City, formerly of Dubuque passed away at her home in Iowa City on Sunday, August 18, 2019.

Visitation will be at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road on Saturday, August 24th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Interment of her cremated remains will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Dubuque, IA

Virginia was born on a July 26, 1935 to Lynas Zachmeyer and Ernestine Engel. She graduated from Burlington High School in 1954. She married Harold L Williams on August 31, 1974.

She worked as an aide at Clausen’s Nursing Home. Then worked on the production line at Owens Brush for 10 years. Then Virginia got her CNA certification and went to work for the Visiting Nurses of Dubuque.

Virginia was always a very active member of her church community. Most recently in Iowa City, she joined the Church of the Nazarene, reconnecting with old friends. In Dubuque she became an officer for the Salvation Army. There she fulfilled many roles: as a Sunday school teacher, singer, preacher, bible study leader, a bell ringer, women’s home league member and called bingo for many years. Virginia also enjoyed volunteering her time by giving rides to people in need of assistance or taking them to the grocery store or doctor appointments.

She easily made many new close friends when she moved to her new apartment in Iowa City and she treasured her time around the mailbox with her Regency Heights neighbors. Virginia most treasured the time spent with her family, visiting, sharing a meal and telling stories.

Virginia is survived by 4 daughters: Deborah (Brad) Gilpin, of Iowa City, Coleen (Mike) Scherrer, of Riverside, IA, Brenda (Ray) Gibson, of Heathrow, Florida, Kim Schmitt, of Dubuque and one son, Ray Steege, of West Union, IA. One sister, Jeannine Yakle, of Cape Coral, Florida, one sister-in-law, Jo Lowe, of Burlington, IA, several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband Harold, her son Carl, her daughter Joni, one brother, one sister, one brother-in-law and her parents.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Iowa City Hospice or Dubuque Salvation Army.

A special thank-you to the staff and care workers from Iowa City Hospice and Dr. Scott Larson of UIHC.

Venita M. Knapp

Venita M. Knapp, 90, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa formerly of Cascade, Iowa, passed away, Sunday, August 18, 2019, at Big Meadows Nursing Home, in Savanna, Illinois, surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Venita may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 3 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at the funeral home. Mass of Christian burial for Venita will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with her grandson, Rev. Ross Epping presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born May 28, 1929 in Placid, Iowa, daughter of James and Alberta (Mahan) Casey. She received her education from Brown’s Country School, St. Martin’s High School, and the Dubuque Academy. She went on to become a Teacher at Brown’s Country School in rural Cascade area.

On June 15, 1950 she was united in marriage to John N. “Jack” Knapp at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area until retiring in 1985. She also worked at the Cascade State Bank, Bishop’s Restaurant, and Hy-Vee in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

She was a member of St. Jude’s Parish in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

She is survived by seven children, Maureen Ries (Dave McCabe) of Galena, IL, Debra (Bill) Schmelling of Cedar Rapids, IA; Gary “Morgan” (Sheila) Knapp of Cascade, Juli (Don) Vrotsos of Dubuque, Jacki Knapp (Bruce Woolfolk) of Cedar Rapids, Peggy (Ed) Epping of Atkins, IA, and Kelly Knapp of Marion; 22 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; two sisters, Gerene O’Brien of Monticello, IA and Cherri Wessels of Dyersville, IA,; four brothers, Dell (Bev) Casey of Brentwood, CA, John Casey of Des Moines, Pat (Sharon) Casey and Chuck (Donna) Casey both of Cascade.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John N. “Jack” Knapp on July 4, 2018; a son, Bob Knapp; two sisters, Krista and Kayla Casey in infancy; two brothers, Glen Casey and Duane Casey; three sons-in-law, John Burds, Ken Ries and Mike Maddigan.

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

Herman Henry Gansemer

Herman Henry Gansemer, 88, of Sherrill, passed away Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday August 23, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Br. Stephen Markham will officiate. Interment will be at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, Sherrill. Friends may also greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, August 22, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory.

Herman was born August 21, 1930 in Sherrill, the son of Henry and Theresa (Butlett) Gansemer. He married Marie Osterkamp on January 8, 1952, at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on April 23, 1997.

Herman farmed for many years on the family dairy farm in Sherrill. Along with Marie, he enjoyed dancing, including Polka, and was a member of the Gold Rush square dancing group.

In 2006, Herman met Lelah Peet, whose companionship he enjoyed until her passing in January of 2019. Herman and Lelah enjoyed vacationing in Mission, TX during winters. Herman was an avid recycler, and was devoted to cleaning up the beach at Finley’s Landing.

Herman is survived by three children, Kathy (Del) Winter of Marion, Joan (John) Lux of Dubuque, and Ron (Delores) Gansemer of Sherrill; eight grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Henry (Mary Jane) Gansemer, Darlene (Emil) Weber, Clarence (Darlene) Gansemer, and Sally (Cletus) Bleile.

In addition to his wife, Herman was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Viola (Mick) Hefel; and two brothers, Lawrence Gansemer, and LaVerne in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted by the family for later donation to Herman’s favorite charities.
Herman’s family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Ruth M. Coble

Ruth M. Coble, 101, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 18, 2019 at home.

Services will be held at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home until time of service. Burial will be at a later date in Compentine Cemetery, Wapello County, Iowa

Ruth was born on February 26, 1918, in Rosehill, Iowa the daughter of Ira and Myrtle (Kinkaid) Hollingsworth; she was the 9th of 10 children. She married Walter E. Coble in 1936 and he preceded her in death.

She enjoyed gardening, flowers, bird watching and family gatherings.

Ruth is survived by her children, JoAnn (Kenny) David, Dick (Margaret) Coble, Dan (Lola) Coble, Sue (Rick) Huseman, and Sheila (Pat) Brehm; her daughters-in-law Alice Coble and Patty Coble; many grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Walter; three sons Larry, Roger and Jerry Coble; grandchildren Ronnie and Rebecca Davis and great granddaughter Glenda Kirkman.

Sister Anne Marie Kollasch

Sister Anne Marie Kollasch, PBVM, 100, died on Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Mount Loretto Motherhouse, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque IA.

Funeral Services will be Thursday, August 22, 2019 at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, with burial in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Friends may call from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Sacred Heart Chapel, where there will be a vigil service at 7:00 pm.

Sister Anne Marie, daughter of Charles and Anne (Laubenthal) Kollasch, was born Margaret Barbara Kollasch on March 4, 1919, in Whittemore IA. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Whittemore IA on September 8, 1940 and professed her perpetual vows on June 10, 1946.

Sister received a Bachelor of Arts from Loras College, Dubuque IA. Her ministry of teaching grades 4-8 took her to Mason City, St. Columbkille of Dubuque, Key West, Waukon, Charles City and Algona, all in Iowa.

Sister Anne Marie was the oldest member of the Dubuque Presentation community at the time of her death and is the longest-lived Kollasch on record as of her birthday in March of 2019. After her retirement in 1993 she volunteered at the Dubuque Nursing and Rehab Center, sharing her gifts in service of the gospel for many years. In 2015, she celebrated her 75h Jubilee. She devoted her days to prayer and the enjoyment of art, history, politics, needle work, culinary arts and connecting with family and friends. She enjoyed time spent with her Presentation Sisters and conversing with staff who were part of the rich texture of her daily life.

Earlier this spring, Sister Anne Marie noted that while the process of aging is challenging, it gave her time to reflect on her experiences. She was grateful for a life that was not only long but also deeply meaningful. She wrote in her autobiography, A Kollasch Collage, “I am ever aware of the ‘hundredfold’ that is mine as God’s beloved,” adding that she is always thankful for the support of family, friends and religious community throughout her life.

Surviving are her sisters, Delores Kollasch, Sister Joann Kollasch, OSB, Irene Bormann (Harold deceased) and sister-in-law Betty Ann (Louis deceased) Kollasch; nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 79 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Caroline (Clarence) Bormann and her brothers Reverend Eugene Kollasch, SJ, Arnold (Lorene), Louis and Clement (Mary Helen).

The Leonard Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dubuquepresentations.org.

Lloyd C. Manternach

Lloyd C. Manternach, 78, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away Sunday, August 18, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of Lloyd may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Services for Lloyd will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 24, 2019 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa with Rev. Neil Manternach presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He was born July 30, 1941 in Monticello, Iowa, son of Clem and Mary (Gudenkauf) Manternach. He received his education in the former St. Mary’s School in Cascade. On November 19, 1960 he was united in marriage to Lois A. Trumm, daughter of John and Elizabeth Trumm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.

He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works from 1964 until retiring in 1992. He then owned and operated Lloyd’s small engine repair in Worthington. He later worked at Victory Ford in Dyersville until recently.

He and Lois enjoyed spending time with their family, camping, attending polka festivals, and took great pride in their children and grandchildren and loved attending their events.

He was a member of the Army National Guard from Aug. 1959-May 1967. He served on the Worthington City Council for 2 terms and as Mayor for 2 terms. He was a member of St. Paul’s Parish for which he also served on the Parish council and the school board.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Manternach of Worthington; seven children, Lisa (Alan) Umbenhower of Chariton and their children, Jonathan (Lindsey) Weber, Kevin Weber, Dana Weber (fiance, Robbie Clark), Troy and Christina Umbenhower; Todd (Sue) Manternach of Cedar Rapids and their children, Cole (Hannah) Manternach, Ashlyn Manternach (fiance, Breon Hawthorne), Darby Manternach, and Reese Manternach; Roger (Susanne) Manternach of Brownsburg, IN and their children Abbie (Ryan) McNew, Curtis (Megan) Manternach, Mary (Logan) Finney; Janet (Steve) Turnis of Monticello and their children, Ben (Emily) Turnis, Laura (Cody) Zumbach and Brian Turnis; Paul (Jill) Manternach of Clear Lake and their children, Olivia, Michael, Thomas and Marie Manternach; Sarah (Tony) Donovan of Worthington and their children, Emma and Grace Willenborg; Carol (Dan) Wetlaufer of Cedar Falls and their children, Anna and Sean Wetlaufer; 10 great-grandchildren and one on the way; six siblings, Dolores (Pat) McQuillen and Phil (Nikki) Manternach both of Cascade, Urban (Linda) Manternach of Dubuque, Madonna Riesberg of Dyersville, Marilyn (Steve) Skahill of East Dubuque, IL, Carol (Pete) Dolan of Dubuque; brothers and sisters-in-law, George Knepper of Cascade, Dorothy Yanda of Anamosa, Betty Trumm and Ida Trumm both of Cascade.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, a son-in-law, Jerry Weber; a brother-in-law, Donald Riesberg; a sister-in-law, Ellen Manternach; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Fred (Mary) Reiter, Alma Knepper, Lawrence Yanda, Leroy (Mary Clara) Trumm, Rosene Trumm, Millie (Eddie) Trumm, Robert Trumm and John Trumm; and a nephew, Nick Trumm.

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

Jean M. Mausser

Jean M. Mausser,, 88, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away, Saturday, August 17, 2019 at her home in Epworth, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Jean may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a rosary will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Thursday at the Funeral Home in Farley.

Services for Jean will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 22, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller Presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born January 22, 1931 at St. Joseph’s Prairie in rural Dubuque, daughter of John and Stella (Molony) Friederick. She received her education in the St. Columbkille’s school in Dubuque, Iowa. On September 18, 1951 she was united in marriage to Clement Mausser at St. Joseph’s Prairie Church. He preceded her in death on November 2, 2011.

The couple farmed in rural Epworth, Iowa, she was a hard working farm wife, and avid gardener. Jean loved to go ballroom dancing, she had a passion for sewing, but especially enjoyed visiting with family and friends.

She is survived by five children, Paul (Mary) Mausser, Phil (Phyllis) Mausser and Carol (Fritz) Brehm all of Epworth, IA, Diane (Tim) Hoover of Edgewood, IA, Luann Mausser of Epworth, IA; a son-in-law, James Leick (Paula) of Durango, IA; 23 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; as daughter, Joan Leick on June 29, 2009; a grandson, David Mausser on July 25, 1978 and a granddaughter, Lisa Miller on June 2, 2015.

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

Lois M. Smith

Lois Marie Smith, 82, of Epworth, Iowa passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in rural Epworth from injuries sustained in a pedestrian/motor vehicle accident.

Friends and relatives of Lois may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Monday, August 19, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a rosary will be held at 3:00 p.m.. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Tuesday, August 20th at the Funeral Home, due to the storm damage done to the Epworth funeral home.

Services for Lois will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2019, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

Lois was born September 17, 1936 in Placid, Iowa, daughter of Cyril M. and Viola (Delaney) McDermott. She received her education in the Placid and Epworth schools. She also attended the Mercy School of Nursing. On October 15, 1960 she was united in marriage to John Smith at St. John’s in Placid, Iowa. The couple farmed in rural Epworth, IA.
She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, IA and was instrumental in implementing the Liturgical committee and Eucharistic Adoration. She was also very involved in the Epworth food pantry. She loved taking walks, watching sunsets, picking flowers, dancing, and spending time with her grandchildren. Lois was well known for her delicious homemade breads and her famous oatmeal raisin filled cookies.

She is survived by her husband, John Smith of Epworth, IA; five children, Michael (Susan) Smith of St. Charles, MN, Sara (Mike) Brehm of Peosta, IA, Marty (Lori) Smith of Epworth, IA and Peter (Rebecca) Smith of Cascade, IA, Jenny Sandeen of Rochester, MN; 33 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; four siblings, Dorrance (Verna) McDermott and Neal (Katie) McDermott both of Epworth, IA, Phyllis (Darris) Goerdt of North Liberty, IA and Julie Casey of Placid, IA; Her brother and sister-in-laws, Pat (Donna) Smith of Dubuque, IA, Ray (Chere) Smith of Plainfield, IN, Phyllis (Gary) Astgen of East Dubuque, IL, Kathy (Wally) Link of Dyersville, IA, Rita Benter of Dubuque, IA, Darlene Sexton of Dubuque, IA and Bill Brown of Bettendorf, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Dennis McDermott; a sister, Mary Catherine McDermott in infancy; a brother-in-law, Donald Casey; brothers and sister-in-law, Eugene Smith, Ann Brown, Dennis Smith and Dick Smith.

A Lois M. Smith memorial fund for masses has been established in lieu of flowers.

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

David T. Becwar

David T. Becwar, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 8th, 2019 at his home, due to a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 19, 2019, at St. Joseph The Worker with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in Rockdale United Methodist Church with full military honors by Iowa Army National Guard. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 18, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m.

Dave was born on June 6th, 1934 in the family farm in Glen Haven, WI the son of Thomas and Lucille (Ryan) Becwar. In 1953 he graduated from Bloomington High School. As a young man, David had different jobs, but he always talked about working at the Blue Haven Night Club in Prairie de Chien. In 1956 he moved to Dubuque and began working at Montgomery Wards and eventually managed their first camera department where his love of photography started. He later managed the camera department at Sears.

David served with the Iowa Army National Guard Company A 1st Battalion 133rd Infantry from 1956 to 1962. In 1970 David began working fulltime with the Iowa National Guard Company A and retired in 1994. He also ran Becwar Photography for 34 years out of his home.

On September 5th, 1960 David married Sharon “Judy” Waller at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and together they had three children, Scott, Lori and Shawn.
David loved life and enjoyed everything, especially a good meal. He loved cars and working on them; he enjoyed going to the flea market and antiquing with Judy and they loved traveling to see relatives and friends.

David is survived by his wife Sharon “Judy”; his children, Scott (Michelle) Becwar, Lori (Kevin) McNaney, both of Dubuque, and Shawn Becwar, of Lake Mary, Florida. Four grandchildren, Rachael (Erik) Dukeman, Brandon (Jackie) Pape, Morgan Becwar, and Paige Becwar. Two great granddaughters Lorelai and Mila. Two brothers Gary (Sandy) Becwar, Michael (Joyce) Becwar; two sisters Barbara Everly and Mary Louise Brunkhorst; sister-in-law Gail Dame along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Karen (Benny) Tigges; his mother and father-in-law Walter and Daisy Waller; daughter-in-law Lydia Becwar, sister-in-law Patricia (Bill) Kohler; brothers-in-law Jim (Kay) Waller and Robert Dame.

The family would like to thank Dr. Chis Stille and all the nurses and staff along with Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave.

The family request no flowers, in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Joseph The Worker, The Veteran’s Freedom Center, Hospice of Dubuque, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
“You were right Marge, He was a great guy.”

Alvin H. Miller

Alvin Harold Miller, 86, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019, at his home. He was born on September 22, 1932, in Manchester, the son of Harold J. and Helen E. (Bergren) Miller and later, Beth Miller.

Al graduated with the class of 1950 from Manchester High School and served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 through 1955, when he was honorably discharged. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1959 with a B.S. in civil engineering and in 1960 with an M.S. in sanitary engineering. In 1964, Al founded Tri-State Engineers, which he owned and operated until 2002.

On October 15, 1981, Al married Jan Mead on Maui, Hawaii. Al was active in many community affairs. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather and wrote beautiful poetry to his Lady. Al is loved deeply by his family.

Al is survived by his wife, Jan of Manchester; his children, Jessica (David) Massey of Charlotte, North Carolina, Mattson (Nancy) Miller of Humboldt, Denise Mead of San Diego, California, Craig Mead of North Liberty, and Dana (Eric) Smith of Iowa City; nine grandchildren, Dara Mead, Avery and Ella Smith, Carly Mead, Alexandria (Adam) Prucolli, Joshua Massey, Kandi Armstead, Justin Armstead, and Dawson Miller; seven great-grandchildren, Riley Massey, Isabella Prucolli, Alivia and Paisley Miller, and Madison, Kayden, and Bradlee Armstead; and his siblings, Marilyn Ortberg of Columbus Junction, Gale Westemeier of Manchester, Dan (Carolyn) Hallenbeck of Greensboro, Georgia, and Ted (Linda) Hallenbeck of Palm Desert, California.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bonnie Sullivan; and brothers-in-law, Bob Sullivan, Dave Westemeier, and Ralph Ortberg.

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

Memorial Service with Military Rites: 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2019, at the Community Congregational Church in Manchester, with Reverend David Grandon officiating.

Visitation: 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends can also call from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the church.

Gertrude E. Ruden

Gertrude E. “Gert” Ruden, age 103, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 9:50 p.m., on Thursday, August 15, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center. To honor Gert’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Holy Cross Church, 875 Church Street, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating. To celebrate Gert’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 20, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture services held at 3:30 p.m. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Gert was born on May 4, 1916, in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Michael and Catherine (Neumann) Ruden.

Gert was born and raised on the farm, where she learned the value of hard work early on in life. She was very dedicated to her work and she co-owned Giesel Springs Tavern and later Frank’s Place on John Deere Road, with her brother Frank, for several years. She was quite talented and created several beautiful quilts and crocheted items throughout her lifetime. Gert was also a talented seamstress and enjoyed making outfits for all of her nieces and nephews. Gert’s Catholic faith was extremely important to her, and she was a shining example of her faith to all of her family and friends. Everyone always knew that if they needed help, Gert was always willing to drop everything and lend a hand. We have been very blessed to have Gert here with us for the past 103 years, and know that she is now resting peacefully with all of her family members that have been called home ahead of her.

Those left to cherish Gert’s memory include several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Gert was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Catherine (Fritz) Krug, Marie (Clarence) Schmal, Barbara “Babe” (Leonard) Backes, Stella (Pete) Krug, Rosella (Donald) Jasper and Frank Ruden.

Gert’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Gert these past years.

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