Obituaries Archive

William L. Rippon

William LeRoy Rippon, 69, of Manchester, Iowa,passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2019, at Regional Medical Center in Manchester. He was born on August 25, 1949, in Manchester, the son of John and Margaret (Schutt) Rippon. Bill graduated from West Delaware High School in 1968.

Bill enjoyed boxing in his younger years and won the Iowa Golden Gloves championship in 1967 at the 119-lb weight class. Following graduation, he detailed cars for Baxter/Dvorak in Manchester. Bill joined the United States Marines in 1969 and was medically discharged after a few months. He then worked as a surveying laborer for Tri-State Engineering in Manchester and later as a power pole digger for Osmose Utilities Services and for Ameri-Pole.

Bill enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs. He loved a cold Old Milwaukee beer and, once in a while, a stiff shot of Seagram’s 7.

Survivors include Bill’s half-brother, John Hansel of Parkersburg; two nephews; and his good friends, JoAnn Besler of Manchester; Mandy, Shannon, Macy, Alden, and Easton Davis of Hopkinton; and Nick, Neveah, Selena, Dominick, and Brielle Besler of Cedar Rapids.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret, in 2003; his father, John; a brother, Ronald Rippon in 2001; and a half-brother, Doug Hansel.

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

Memorial Service:10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester, Iowa, with Rev. Tony D. Ede officiating.

Visitation:Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to service time on Saturday, June 8, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester.

Inurnment:Fairview Cemetery – Earlville, Iowa

Margaret E. Walker McCarthy

Margaret Ellen Walker McCarthy, 77, a devoted wife, sister, aunt and dear friend to all, passed away on May 26.

Visitation is planned for Thursday, May 30, from 3 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again after 12:30 P.M. on Friday at the church. The Funeral Mass will be Friday, May 31 at 1:30 P.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Margaret had a great zest for life and did not let the pancreatic cancer diagnosis slow her down. She fought a courageous battle with great support from her family and so many friends each and every day.

Born in a farm house North of Iron Hill, she was the youngest child of Eulaine (Flagel) and David Walker. Her siblings are Joyce Berggren of Maquoketa; Mary Rote of Dickeyville, WI and Dick (Denise) Walker of Bettendorf, IA.

Margaret attended Maquoketa High School and was Homecoming Queen 1959. She began working at Jackson State Bank in 1963. She was always the friendliest person in the bank greeting everyone by name. A loyal employee, Margaret worked for “the bank” through its many name changes for 42 years, retiring in 2005.

She married the love of her life, Joe McCarthy, 53 years ago, on Aug. 28, 1965. As an avid hunter and fisher herself, Margaret and Joe, together with their close friends, enjoyed many outdoor adventures. She also found time for her vegetable and flower gardens and was a member of the Maquoketa Garden Club.

Generous with her time and support of Maquoketa, Margaret also served on the Jackson County Fair Board and Executive Board of the Maquoketa Country Club for several years. She volunteered at the Hurstville Interpretive Center and she thoroughly enjoyed the “Y” and all her friends and the activities they shared in while there. Margaret was an active member of Sacred Heart Parish serving in many volunteer roles there, and as the volunteer school librarian for several years after she retired from the bank.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law, Florence and Gerald McCarthy, and her brother-in-law, Tommy Berggren.

Margaret is survived by her loving husband Joe McCarthy and her cherished siblings.

Margaret, aka Spook, was the favorite Aunt of her MANY nieces and nephews, to include great, great–nieces and nephews! She was fun-loving, humorous, and compassionate. She loved hosting and entertaining family and friends. The best stories were shared at Margaret and Joe’s home. Her countless number of friends with whom she enjoyed hunting, fishing, card playing, tap dancing, bicycling and so much more will remember her spirit and carry it with them for years to come.

We would like to thank Dr. Daniel Berg, Diane Van Ersvelde, PA, Sharon Baumler and the healthcare team who assisted Margaret at the University of Iowa Hospitals, as well as the staff at Family Clinic in Maquoketa. Additionally, heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the nurturing staff of Jackson County Hospice for their excellent care and support for Margaret in her last days.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Margaret E. McCarthy memorial fund has been established.

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

Patricia A. Koehler

Patricia A. “Patty” Koehler, age 80 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on Sunday, May 26, 2019 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Patty’s life, a Celebration of Life for her and Dave is being scheduled for a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Patty’s family.

Patty was born on January 5, 1939 in Dubuque, the only daughter of Joseph and Imelda (Pelzer) Shannon. Patty was always proud to be able to say that she spent her entire 80 years of life right here in Dubuque. She made many friends along the way, eagerly participated in the creation of countless wonderful memories for others to treasure and was most importantly blessed with her own family to love and adore. She met her soul-mate, Dave Koehler at the spry age of 13 and the two were eventually united in marriage on April 27, 1957. Sadly, Dave was called home in 2015, but we know and trust that they have now begun their 62nd Anniversary together once again in their Heavenly Home.

Patty always enjoyed working behind the bar, most notably at the Golden Pheasant, the Double J and the Copper Kettle over her working years. Her work ethic was second to none, and thankfully her outgoing nature, big kind heart and delightfully witty sense of humor came right along with the package. She could brighten any day, change the outlook of any situation and even tackle the impossible by simply listening with sincerity. When the workday was over, you could quite often find this River Rat right where she felt at home, or if the weather wasn’t cooperating, a few good hands of Euchre and Pinochle with friends would just as easily fill the day.

Patty would readily admit that work and play were continually in her top 3 priorities in life, but that nothing could ever compare to her #1 goal in life; Her Family. She loved her husband and daughters dearly, but once her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, her heart blossomed even more. She never missed an opportunity to spend quality time with any of them and always savored any interaction where she could truly get caught up on their lives. Patty was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother who has steadfastly built a legacy which will be carried forward in the minds of all who knew and loved her. We will miss Patty more than words could ever truly depict, but we are also beyond grateful for all of the time the Lord gave us with her and we will always remember to do our best to actively live out in our personal lives all of the positive traits she leaves behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Patty include,

her daughters,
Kim (John) Rogers,
Kelley (Mike) Vondal,
and Kerry Koehler, all of Dubuque, Iowa;

her 8 grandchildren,
Harley (Brandy) Harry, Joseph (Stacy) Harry, Alicia Vondal, Lyndsey (Seth Steinlage) Vondal, Alex (Tasha Scheffert) Vondal, Layla (Sam Houselog) Vondal, Alea (fiancé Kyle Cashman) Vondal, Katelin Wright and Craig (Dwight) Wright;

her 9 great-grandchildren,
Jacob, Hailey, Thomas III, Wyatt, Gavin, Korra, Logan, Brycen, Nevaeh and Kiley Jo;

her brother,
Terry (Doris) Shannon, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Robert (June) Shannon.

Patty’s family would like to thank Dr. Gordon, along with the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of the professional, compassionate and gentle care they provided to Patty, and her family.

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

“When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. The angel said my place was ready in Heaven far above and that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But, when I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home, for God looked down and smiled and said, “Welcome Home Patty”. So, when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.”

Jim A. Parker

Jim A. Parker, 50, of Bellevue, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at U of I Hospital & Clinics from the results of an automobile accident.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 31, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Burial will be at a later date in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Jim was born December 1, 1968 in Dubuque, the son of James Bauer and Elizabeth Parker. He married Misty Mathisen on December 23, 2000 in Dubuque. Jim was a self-made man, who loved spending time with family and friends. He was in the insurance industry, enjoyed hunting, fishing, and telling stories. Jim was a passionate Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers fan. He was an amazing husband, father, funny and the life of the party. Jim will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Misty; their children, Walter (Shalene Hagerty) Link, Austin Riedl, Matthew Parker, Lizzy Parker, and Ty Parker; his father, James Bauer; a brother, Blake Bauer; aunt and uncle, Rose and Steve Husemann; and his extended siblings, Kristie (Travis) Pfiffner, Louie (Pauline) Husemann, Jody (Ron) Kenneally, and Lindsey Schreiber; and his mother and father in-law, Barb (Eli) Dicklich and Tom (Judi) Mathisen.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Parker.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established at Bellevue State Bank in Jim’s memory.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

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

Paulette M. Taylor

Paulette M. “Paula” Taylor, age 72 of Asbury, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury with her husband by her side after a 5 year battle with dementia. To celebrate Paula’s life, a private family service is being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Paula’s family.

Paula was born on July 22, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, a daughter to Paul and Norma Dedick. She was united in marriage on October 5, 1968 in Chicago to Rick Taylor and the two would go on to be blessed with one deeply adored son, Paul and 50 years together. Paula spent over 25 years working at NDX Oral Arts Iowa Dental Laboratory with Rick. When they weren’t at work, the couple enjoyed hunting and fishing together and even working on crafts in their woodshop when time allowed. Paula was a wonderful cook in the kitchen and also enjoyed a little personal time with her sewing machine. Paula was a spunky little lady with a huge heart and not a day went by that wasn’t brighter because of her inner beauty. We will miss Paula more than words can say, but we know she’s at peace now and her battle with dementia is finally over. Thank you Paula for all of the love and light you shared with the world and those around you!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Paula include,

her loving husband,
Rick Taylor, Asbury, Iowa;

her son,
Paul (Sue Sandahl) Taylor, Johnston, Iowa;

her grandson,
Edward Taylor, Johnston, Iowa;

her sister-in-law,
Karen (John) Coffey, Inglewood, Florida;

and her dear friend,
Cynthia Leslein, Asbury, Iowa.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, and her in-law’s, Clarence and Dorothy (McLaughlin) Taylor.

Paula’s family would like to thank Dr. Cao, and the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center for all of the professional and compassionate care they provided to Paula.

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

Diane L. Peil

Diane L. Peil, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at home with loving family on Saturday, May 25th, 2019. To honor her wishes services will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

She was born May 9, 1946, in Dubuque, the daughter of John M. and Clara M. (Wolter) McLaughlin, Sr. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. On October 3, 1964 she was united in marriage to George F. “Sonny” Peil Sr. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Dubuque.

Diane was an avid genealogist and was happy to find any needed information. She enjoyed being with family and was glad to talk and spend time with anyone. Christmas was a favorite time of hers. She was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church. She was proud of their sons and their families. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and sister-in-law.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years George F. “Sonny” Peil; four sons, George F. (Dawn Ede) Peil, of Dubuque, Paul L. (Jolene) Peil, of Austin, Minnesota, Jason J. (Sara Breitbach) Peil, of Dubuque, and Todd M. (Jason Coffman) Peil, of Dubuque; five grandchildren, Victoria (Eric) Johnson, Troy (Leslie) Peil, Jessica (Jaiden Bastyr) Peil, Emily (Mitch Gross) Peil, and Marissa Peil; three great-granddaughters, Brinley and Emmalynn Johnson, and Margaret (Greta) Peil; a sister, Sharon (Tom) Spiegelhalter, of Peosta, Iowa; a brother, Danny (Dawn) McLaughlin, of Eldridge, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Viola McLaughlin, of Dubuque; and many other relatives and friends.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Gage Peil, and a brother, John M. McLaughlin,
Jr.

Her family would like to thank all healthcare professionals who treated her.

Phyllis M. Hutter

Phyllis M. Hutter, 78, of Dubuque died Friday, May 24, 2019 at Manor Care. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Church of the Nativity where visitation will be held Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Bellevue, Iowa.

Phyllis was born October 25, 1940 in Key West, Iowa, daughter of Earl and Sylvia (Frantzen) Berendes Sr.

On May 27, 1972 she married the love of her life, Dave Hutter, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bellevue. He preceded her in death on February 7, 2012.

Phyllis worked in environmental services at Mercy Medical Center for 35 years, retiring in 2004.

Phyllis had a very special relationship with her nieces and nephews, treating them as if they were her own children.

She is survived by a brother, Mel (Marilyn) Berendes of Dubuque; a sister, Anita (Eldon) Rowan of

Coeur D’ Alene, Idaho; and many nephews and nieces.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, brother and sister in law, Earl and Ruth Berendes; brother, Loras Berendes; nephew, Bill Berendes and niece, Kristi Berendes.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

A Phyllis Hutter memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manor Care for their many years of care, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Steve Engstrom

Steve “Engo,” Engstrom, age 55, of Dubuque, IA formerly of the Des Moines area passed away on Saturday, May 25th, 2019 at home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where service will be held at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Dennis Schmitt officiating.

Steve was born on September 25, 1963 in Des Moines, IA, the son of Keith Engstrom & Nancy (Adcock) Engstrom. He graduated from Johnston High School in 1982, “Brew Crew of 82,”

He married Kathy Engstrom, on March 20, 1999 in Urbandale, IA.

Steve worked several years at R&D Plastics in Earlham, IA and worked at John Deere Dubuque Works in Assembly since 2014.

Steve loved the outdoors-hunting, fishing, golfing, and yard work. NASCAR racing was a passion, the Earnhardts filled his weekends. Love to Jamie Schirm #56 in Stuart, IA.

He is survived by his wife Kathy; his son Daniel (Megan) Engstrom of Des Moines, IA; stepson Joshua Blasen of Dubuque; and stepdaughter April (Casey) Buol of Dubuque. Four amazing grandchildren: Carter Kronfeldt, Nathan Blasen, Joey Blasen, and Aubrina Buol. His father, Keith Engstrom of Grimes and mother, Nancy Engstrom of Des Moines. His siblings Scott Engstrom of Des Moines, Cheri (Shawn) Sutton of Grimes, Cindi (Scott) Culbertson of Des Moines, Justin Engstrom of Des Moines, half-sister Shannon Miller of Cedar Rapids, half-sister Becky (Jesse) Gearhart of Cedar Rapids, and half-brother Rodney (Crystal) Miller of Cedar Rapids. Many nephews and nieces who each held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by Don Miller, his biological father.

Thank you to the staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, the great support from Ennoble skilled nursing and Rehab and to the Wendt Regional Cancer Society for all of their care.

Dennis D. Wolter

Dennis D. Wolter, age 78, of Asbury, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 4:35 p.m., on Saturday, May 25, 2019, at MercyOne, with his loving family at his side. To honor Dennis’ life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, May 31, 2019, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street. To celebrate Dennis’ life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 30, 2019, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis was born on February 14, 1941, in Guttenberg, Iowa, son of Harold and Barbara (Junk)Wolter.

Dennis attended Cathedral Grade School and went on to graduate from Loras Academy, Class of 1959, before honorably serving his country with the U.S. Air Force for 4 years. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Karen Palm, and the two have been blessed with 8 wonderful children together. Dennis was a dedicated worker and was employed with Martin Oil and Gas Station on 3rd and Locust Street, before moving on to manage and own Martin Oil and Gas Station at 22nd and Central, for several years, until his well earned retirement at age 64. His faith was a very important to Dennis, and he was proud to have been a life long member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral. In his free time, Dennis loved being in the great outdoors, whether it was coon or squirrel hunting or simply spending the day at his favorite fishing hole. He was quite the card player, with Euchre and Texas Hold Em’ being his games of choice. He also enjoyed regularly getting out and playing Shuffleboard with his brothers. Family, was beyond a doubt, the most important part of Dennis’ life, he treated Karen like a queen, and looked forward to any chance that presented itself to get all of the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren together for a family gathering. We are deeply saddened at suddenly losing such a great man and role model in our daily lives, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with all of his family members called home ahead of him.

Those left to cherish Dennis’ memory include

his loving wife,
Karen Wolter, Asbury, IA;

his 8 children,
Tamara (Hugh) Graham, Dubuque, IA,
Tina (Wayne) Pothoff, Dubuque, IA,
Donna (Daniel) Vondran, Springdale, AR,
James (Laura) Wolter, Dubuque, IA,
Rebecca (Darrell) Houselog, Dubuque, IA,
Dione (Craig) Miller, Asbury, IA,
Tod (Amy) Wolter, Wyoming, IA
and Don (Susan Gwiasda) Wolter, Ames, IA;

his 24 grandchildren,
Matthew, Dalton, Samantha, Vanessa, Nicole, Nathan, Noah, Nicholas, Nina, Nolan, Eric, Sarah, Preston, Kailyn, Ryan, Olivia, Nikki, Rachel, Katie, Kara, Erin, Leah, Natalie and Emma;

his 18 great-grandchildren;

his 6 siblings,
Alois (Olive “Buzz”) Wolter,
Loren (Rosemary) Wolter,
Duane (Barbara) Wolter,
Harold (Sharon) Wolter,
Ruthann (Gerald) Burger
and Barbara (Thomas) Tuthill;

a sister-in-law,
Janet Wolter;

and his in-laws,
Marolyn (Don) Donath,
Kathy (Dan) Schmit,
Darlene Trilk,
Jolene Boever
and Kenny (Connie) Palm Jr.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Benjamin Rollings; a brother, LaVern Wolter; a sister, Rosemary (Earl) Fagan; and 2 brothers-in-law, Minor Maas and Bob Trilk.

Dennis’ family would like to thank the Asbury Police and Fire Departments, and the staff at Mercy for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Dennis and his entire family.

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

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

Kristopher E. M. Taylor

Kristopher E. M. “Kris” Taylor, age 34, of Dubuque, was called home unexpectedly on Monday, May 20, 2019, at home of natural causes. To honor Kris’ life, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor Jonathan T. Crawford officiating. To celebrate Kris’ life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Kris was born on January 8, 1985, in Muskegon, MI, son of Kendra (Taylor) Doty.

Kris was born and raised in Muskegon where he graduated from high school in 2003. He was always an amazing athlete and was recruited right out of high school to play football for the University of Dubuque. After moving to Dubuque, Kris would meet the love of his life, Megan Schickel, and they have been together for 10 wonderful years. He was a hard worker, and was employed at several places including Diamond Jo Casino, Champps Americana, RIE Coatings and Texas Roadhouse for many years. Kris was an extremely loving dad and spending time with his family meant the world to him. In his free time, he enjoyed playing video games and spending time outside caring for his lawn, which was his pride and joy. Kris had a kind and loving nature and was a “life coach” for several kids throughout his short time here on Earth. Kris was also well known for his “shoe fetish”, he had a special pair for every occasion, and his family loved to tease him about it. He was an avid motorcycle rider and was part of the NuBreed group of stunt riders in Dubuque. Our hearts are truly broken today with the sudden loss of Kris in our daily lives. We will miss him more than words can ever express and will cherish all of the memories we have made throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Kris’ memory include

his fiancé,
Megan Schickel, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Jaxson Taylor, Dubuque, IA;

his daughter,
Mackenzie Taylor, Dyersville, IA;

his mother,
Kendra Doty, Muskegon, MI;

his step-father,
Charles Doty Sr., Muskegon, MI;

his siblings,
Michael Williams, Muskegon, MI,
Kristian Taylor, Indianapolis, IN,
Kristina (Liam) Goodwin, Duncan, SC,
Kristal Taylor,
and Charles Doty Jr., both of Muskegon, MI;

his fiancé’s parents,
Wendy and Ray Schickel, Dubuque, IA;

and his fiancé’s brother,
Nick Schickel, Cambridge, MA.

Kris was preceded in death by his father, Michael Williams, and by his maternal grandparents, Herbert and Lucy Taylor.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to care for his children’s future expenses and help pay for Kris’ final expenses. A GoFundMe page has been established in their name, Kris Taylor & Family, for those wishing to help.

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

Mary Lea Gudenkauf

Mary Lea Gudenkauf, 78, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Thursday, May 23, 2019 at The Gardens of Cedar Rapids, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Mary Lea may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 4 p.m. Friends may call after 9 a.m. at the funeral home on Wednesday.
Services for Mary Lea will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born on July 11, 1940, in Earlville, Iowa daughter of Leo and Marie (Melchert) Recker. She received her education from St. Patrick’s School in Ryan, Iowa. She was united in marriage on June 19, 1962 to Loras Gudenkauf at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ryan, Iowa. He preceded her in death on January 10, 2018. The couple farmed in the Cascade area.
She was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by; two children, Richard Gudenkauf of Cascade, IA and Rhonda Andrew Toms & Husband Shane Toms of Cedar Rapids, IA; two grandsons, Tyler Andrews and Sawyer Toms; one brother, Loras (Gloria) Recker of Ryan, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Eugene (Anita) Gudenkauf, Bernadette (Robert) Staner of Cascade, IA, Joyce (Tony) Feldman of Earlville, IA, James Rollinger of Cascade, IA and JoAnn (Donald) Knipper of Hopkinton, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Mary Gudenkauf in infancy in 1964; one brother, Kenneth Recker; sisters-in-law, Lavonne Rollinger, Sandy Rollinger; her, father and mother-in-law, Edward and Lucille Gudenkauf.

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

Robert R. Gerken

Robert R. Gerken, age 84 of Dubuque IA passed away on May 23rd, 2019, at home surrounded by his family. He was born in Happy, TX, on July 1st, 1934, to Oscar and Martha (Wernke) Gerken. He married Darlene Nieland on June 18th, 1960.

Bob is survived by his wife; sons William (Anne) Gerken of Covington, WA, and Robert (Shelley) Gerken of Colorado Springs, CO; his daughter, Mary Gerken of Covington, WA; five grandchildren, Clara, Luke, Elizabeth, Jacob and Robert; and his sister, Mary Del (Don) Stouse.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William Gerken, and sisters, Carol (Laverne) Kleitsch, and Dorothy (Don) Tiller.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 29th at St. Columbkille’s Church, Dubuque, IA. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. until Mass

Committal prayers and military honors will be at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery Guttenberg, IA. Military honors presented by Guttenberg American Legion Post #373. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Dennis J. Stierman

Dennis J. Stierman, 61, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 20th, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a celebration of Dennis’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

He was born October 15, 1957 in Dubuque to Jerold “Huck” Stierman and Millie (Schromen) Stierman.
He married Callista Behnke on January 18, 1991 and had four beautiful children.

He loved spending time with his family and loading up his grandchildren with sugar. He was passionate about music and loved the outdoors. He was always there for others and would help anyone.

He is survived by his son Shawn (Marissa Kast) Stierman; his daughters Cheyanna (Charlie Saul) Stierman and Jasmine Stierman, all of Dubuque; grandchildren Cameron Saul and Kayden Jasper; his sisters Pam Willey and Carolyn (Jimmie Marshall) Stierman, both of La Motte; his brothers Brian (Mary) Stierman of New Port Richey, Fla, and Kurt (Rena) Stierman of Dubuque; a brother-in-law Bill Welsh of Dubuque, along with many nieces and nephews who loved their uncle Din-Din.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Jeremy; two sisters Jody Welsh and Wendy Stierman; and brother-in-law Rick Willey.

A Dennis J. Stierman memorial fund has been established in lieu of flowers.

Doris Michaelson

Doris Michaelson died May 20, 2019 at age 88. Doris was originally from Bellevue, Iowa and was under the care of Hospice at Stonehill Franciscan Care Center, Dubuque.

Doris was born on February 1, 1931 to parents John and Florabel Holdefer in Humboldt, Iowa. She was the older sister to one sibling, John. Doris and her future husband were high school classmates and were also confirmed together in 1943 at First Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Iowa. After attending Iowa State, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education, she married Manly Michaelson on June 15, 1952. Doris taught Home Economics in Lytton, Iowa while her husband, Dr. Manly Michaelson, completed a one year of practice in Lytton, Iowa and then was recruited to practice medicine in Bellevue, Iowa where Doris had many relatives. In 1958, Doris and Manly had a small office directly across from the American Legion in Bellevue and then moved to the most recent location with a beautiful view of the Mississippi river. Doris and Manly worked together in the office from 1958 until 1987. While Dr. Michaelson made himself available for house calls and emergency care at all hours even delivering babies at the Bellevue Public Hospital, Doris raised five children.

A working mother, Doris was involved in the community of Bellevue. She served on the Bellevue Community School board for nine years and was President for several years. Doris was an active member of the Republican Women’s Club and the Tri-State Home Economics organization. She and Manly were both private pilots and Doris had the distinction of being the first female float plane pilot in the state of Iowa. Doris enjoyed flying members of the community to see breathtaking Bellevue. Doris and Manly both also utilized their private plane to transport multiple patients to Iowa City for additional care. Doris was also an avid gardener and a faithful follower of the Master Gardener program on WMT radio. Doris and her son Robert also enjoyed a placing trot lines in the Mississippi River. She was also an enthusiatic supporter Colts Drum and Bugle Corps and the Hawkeye Marching Band. Doris loved the sound of Sousa marches and also had the opportunity to play under the guest conductor/famed composer Karl King while playing sousaphone in the band while at Iowa State.

Doris had such a wide array of interests but without question, her biggest passion was being a leader for the Weight Watchers. She attended her first meeting in Chicago with her husband and was so impressed that she drove 74 miles a week to attend Weight Watchers in Moline, IL. After losing 52 lbs and reaching goal in the early ‘70’s, Doris sought to become a leader for approximately fifteen years. At one time she had 13 classes per week covering Dewitt, Hanover, Bellevue, Maquoketa, Dubuque and even an “At Work” meeting in the Galena Territories. Her background in nutrition and her love of helping people made her an inspiring leader. Doris retired from Weight Watchers in 1998. In later years, she served as a substitute teacher for Bellevue Public schools and also volunteered for five years as a “Greeter” at the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce. Doris loved this position as she told visitors about “Beautiful Busy Bellevue”.

Doris was an amazing, accomplished woman and will be missed greatly by her family and long-term members of the Bellevue community.

Doris Lee Michaelson is survived by her brother John (Rosemary) of Monument, CO. Her children Dr. Robert Michaelson (Debbie) of Champaign, IL, James (Vivian) of Tomball, TX, Charles (Becky) Michaelson of Dubuque, Ruth Michaelson of Dubuque and CDR Martha Michaelson, a dentist on active duty in the US Navy stationed at Great Lakes, IL and fifteen grandchildren: Jennifer of Dubuque, Ingrid (Kindred) Priest of Bettendorf, Nikki living in France, Manly (Christine) Whitehouse, TX, Peter (Mallory) of Red Oak, TX, Seth (Tesca) of Temple, TX , Josiah of Conroe, TX, Hannah, Naomi, Eunice, Esther, Talitha and Abigail all of Tomball, TX and 3 step-grandsons, Marc Porter of Ft Worth, TX, Josh (Adriana) of Overland Park, Kansas and Ryan of Champaign,IL, Dara (Travis) Leick of Dubuque, Jacey of Dubuque and great grandchildren: Ella and Amelia Priest, Jimmy and Clark Michaelson, Ezekial Michaelson and Ethan, Jaymes, Andrew, David and Jordan Michaelson-Leick.

Services will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, IA with visitation from 11:00-1:00 and funeral service at 1:00 with lunch to follow at the church. At 2:45, Doris will be laid to rest at St John’s Lutheran Cemetery in St. Donatus, IA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to St. John’s Lutheran church of Bellevue and the Bellevue Ambulance service.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Online condolences may be left at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Donald D. Dede

Donald Dean Dede, 80, of rural Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He was born on August 19, 1938, in Boone, the son of Fred and Ruth (Hannum) Dede. Following graduation from Boone High School, Don attended mechanic school in Kansas City.

On April 3, 1960, Don was united in marriage to Janice Schmidt. Two sons were born to this union. After 22 years of service, Don was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard in 1977. Janice died in 1979. Don married Patricia Schmidt on June 9, 1984, at First Lutheran Church in Manchester. He worked as a mechanic at 1st Avenue Chrysler-Plymouth in Cedar Rapids until his retirement in 2000.

Don was a long-time member of First Lutheran Church in Manchester. He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. Don also loved relaxing at their cabin on Lake Delhi. The Iowa Donor Network recognized Don as an eye donor.

Don is survived by his wife, Patricia; one son, Darwin (Tracy) Dede of Marion; a daughter-in-law, Reneé Dede of Marion; two grandchildren, Spencer and Skylar Dede; one sister, Carol (George) VanDee of Cedar Rapids; and his dog, Mollie.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Janice; a son, Kenneth in 2018; and a sister, Marilyn Larson.

Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at First Lutheran Church in Manchester, with Rev. Tony D. Ede officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call one hour before the service on Tuesday at the church.

Interment with Military Rites: Peace Lutheran Cemetery – Ryan, Iowa