Obituaries Archive

Elizabeth A. Fuerst

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Fuerst, 85, of Dubuque, died peacefully Friday, September 13, 2019, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Monday, September 16, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd. The Mass of Christian Burial for Betty will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, September 17, 2019, at Church of the Nativity with Rev. Father Andy Upah as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Born April 27, 1934, in Dubuque, IA, she was the daughter of Louis and Agnes Mastin Fischer. On May 21, 1955, she married Fred M. Fuerst in St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He passed away May 21, 2001 on their 46th wedding anniversary.

She worked at Stampfers Department Store before purchasing their home and then was a homemaker.

She was a member of Church of the Nativity. She liked to read and was a collector of many things including antiques and cookbooks. She especially enjoyed traveling with her husband and cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her six daughters, Carol Krohmer, Cindy Fuerst, Cathy (Tim) Moler, Connie (Doug) Moyer, Christine (Roger Maber) Fuerst, and Candy (David) Raymond, all of Dubuque; nine grandchildren, Heather, Mike, Becky, Justyn, Nick, Maranda, Emilee, Noah, and Fred; five great-grandchildren, Sophia, Hadyn, Kynick, Erik, and Tyler; two sisters, Mary (Don) Wright of Cascade, IA and Barb (Eldon) Wear of Gainesville, FL; and one brother, Bill (Kay) Fischer of Arizona; and her cat Sophie.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one brother in infancy, and her cat Cheetos.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque, Bethany Home, and Dr. Konz and her nurse, Sherry, for their special care of Betty.

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

Mrs. Donald (Geraldine A.) Oliver

Mrs. Donald (Geraldine A.) Oliver, 90, formerly of 351 Highland Drive, East Dubuque, IL, died Thursday, Sep. 12, 2019, at Bethany Home, in Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 14, 2019 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary’s Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Gerry was born on August 9th, 1929 in Flint, MI, daughter of Edward and Marie (Cluka) Knaeble. She was a 1947 Graduate of Immaculate Conception Academy, Dubuque IA.

She married Donald C. Oliver July 29, 1950 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, East Dubuque.

She worked as a Receptionist in the office of Dr. Leslie M. Fitzgerald while attending night classes at the former Bayless Business College in Dubuque. She then worked in the offices of Drs. Earl and Joe Locher, Sr. as Dental Assistant and Lab Technician. When she and Don began their family, she stayed home until the youngest of their five children went to Kindergarten. She then worked nights for a short time at Finley Hospital as a Switch Board Operator and Night Admitting Clerk. Then she worked for 16 years at Clarke College as Secretary to the Director of Graduate Studies.

She was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque and their Altar & Rosary Society. She was a Charter Member of the Gramercy Park Foundation and originally served as Treasurer for several years. She represented ICA on the All Former Catholic High School’s Graduating Class of 1947 Planning Committee.

Her favorite sports were Alpine Skiing and Golf. She was a member of the Sundown Ski Resort and the Lacoma Ladies Day Golf League. She liked to play Bridge and was a member of several Bridge Clubs. She also enjoyed the many river trips she and Don took up and down the Mississippi river with their friends.

She loved being involved in their children’s lives, especially celebrating special occasions with them and watching their grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow and flourish.

Surviving are her husband Donald C. Oliver, a son, Larry (Diane) Oliver of East Dubuque; four daughters: Sandy (Tom Sitzmann) Schnee, Cindy (Lee Theis) Oliver of Dubuque, Amanda O’Connor of Seal Beach CA and Sarah Oliver of East Dubuque; six Grandchildren and five Great-grandchildren, and two very dear sister’s-in-law. Carol (Oliver) Boal of Dubuque and Kay (Oliver) Zillig of East Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jim Knaeble.

We would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home for their kind care in the final years of her life.

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

Lucina C. Haas Kerper Morris

Lucina C. “Lou” Haas Kerper Morris, 93 of New Vienna, Iowa passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2019, at Oak Crest Manor, Dyersville.

Visitation will be held 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, September 15, 2019, at St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna. Visitation will continue Monday from 9-10 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, September 16, 2019, St. Boniface Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Lou was born July 1, 1926 in rural Guttenberg, Iowa the daughter of Hubert and Anna (Drilling) Haas. She married Arthur E. “Bob” Kerper on June 9, 1949 in Garnavillo; he passed away on May 2, 1958. She then married Richard E. “Dick” Morris on June 15, 1973 in New Vienna, Iowa. He passed away May 5, 2002.

Lou worked for many years as a bank teller in local area banks. She also worked as a bookkeeper at Kerper Produce, the Dyersville Sale Barn on Thursdays and Morris Livestock.

Lou was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary 9th district in New Vienna and was past president.

She was an avid euchre player and a league bowler for many years. Lou volunteered delivering meals for senior citizens for 11 years. She was the New Vienna citizen of the year in 2010.

Lou was a member of the New Vienna Historical Society and served as a tour guide at the Heritage House. She loved cooking for and entertaining family and friends and was always interested in her grandchildren and great grandchildren’s activities. She was a Cardinals baseball fan and enjoyed watching Chris and Craig play for the Farley Hawks.

Survivors include her children: Steve (Linda Goedken) Kerper, Rick Kerper both of New Vienna, Karen (Steve) Tapke of Dyersville, 7 grandchildren: Chris (Danielle) Kerper, Cheryl (James) Biermann, and Craig (fiancé Allison Koss) Kerper, Justin (Jennifer) Kerper, Melissa (Brian) Mensen, Jennifer (Adam) Oberbroeckling, and Nicole (Sean) Stelken, 12 great grandchildren, Elisabeth, Alexander Kerper, Max, Elena Biermann, Ethan, Madison Kerper, Rylie, Karlie, Tate Mensen, Emma, Ava, Oberbroeckling, Olivia Stelken, brother: Lavern (Bernice) Haas, and sister-in-law: Norma Kerper.

She was preceded in death by her parents, parents-in-law, Otto and Anna Kerper, husbands Bob and Dick, granddaughter Emily Kerper, siblings: Anita (Alfred) Klosterman, Erwin Haas, Imelda (James) Boeckenstedt, Aletha (Edwin) Engelken, in-laws: John Kerper, Mary (Louis) Fell, Sr. Ann Marie Kerper, Theresa (Roland) Domeyer, Albert Kerper, Anthony (Iola) Kerper, James (Kathy) Kerper, Donald Kerper, and half brother-in-law, Leo Kinser.

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

Karen M. Kloser

Karen M. Kloser, 66, of Epworth, Iowa and formerly of Worthington, IA, passed away, Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Karen may call from 9 to 11 a.m., Monday, September 16, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa. Services for Karen will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, September 16, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Fr. Steven Lange officiating. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born April 13, 1953 in Peosta, Iowa, daughter of Walter and Arlyce (Westhoff) Clapham. She is a graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth. On November 27, 1971 she was united in marriage to Robert Kloser at Holy Family Catholic church in Peosta, Iowa.

She was employed at Mercy Medical Center in Dyersville in the Housekeeping department.

She enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren, attending their games and activities and playing cards. She loved listening to country music, and especially loved spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Kloser of Epworth; four children; Terry (Alta) Kloser of Greeley, Jennifer (Duane) Sadler of Lisbon, Brian (Liz) Kloser of Nichols, and Scott (Pam) Kloser of Marion; her grandchildren, Cory Kloser, Adam Kloser, Aaron Kloser, Kaitlyn Kloser, Skylar Sadler, Wesley Sadler, Ryan Kloser, Emily Burke, Tyler Kloser, Brennen Kloser and Jack Kloser; her mother, Arlyce Clapham; her siblings, Bonnie (Bill) Steines of Dubuque, Gary (Kathy) Clapham of Dyersville, Bill (Karen) Clapham, Rick (Bev) Clapham both of Dubuque, Lynn (Ralph) Delaney of Peosta, Judy (Bob) Rosenow of Epworth, Nancy (Chris) Rondeau of Peosta and Fr. Steve Lange of Cuba City, WI.

She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Clapham; one sister, Kathy Lange.

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

David A. Rea

David A. Rea, 79, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Dave may call from 1 to 7 p.m., Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Services for Dave will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 16, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Fillmore, Iowa.

He was born April 4, 1940 in Bernard, Iowa, son of Oliver and Florence (McCarthy) Rea. He received his education in the Sacred Heart School in Fillmore and graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque, Iowa.

On June 23, 1962, he was united in marriage to Geraldine “Gerry” Lynch at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.

He owned and operated David Rea Trucking.

He is a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Fillmore, a lifetime member of the Dubuque County Saddle Club and a member of the Knights of Columbus-Council #930. Dave was also a former Prairie Creek Township Trustee, and served on the Aquin School Board, the Sacred Heart Church of Fillmore Parish Board and was a 4-H Leader.

He is survived by his wife, Gerry Rea of Bernard; six children, Linda (Brian) Martin of Zwingle, Mike (Bridget) Rea of Cascade, Julie (Nolan) Ford of Tipton, Mary Jo (Jonathan) Jordan of Yorkville, IL, Angie (Darrin) Treptow of Dunkerton, Anthony “Tony” (LaKesha) Rea of Peosta; nineteen grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; one brother, Pat (Ruth) Rea of Bernard; six sisters, Kay McDonnell of Bernard, Anna Ruth O’Shea of Overland Park, KS, Mary George of Dickeyville, WI, Nancy (Jim) Oglesby of Cuba City, WI, Joyce (Al) Koster of Asbury and Lois Wubben of Oregon, WI; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Kay (James) McDonald of Marion, Helen (Joe) Burlage of Worthington, Richard (Joyce) Lynch of Cascade, Elaine (Norman) Jacobson of Springville, Joe (Jean) Lynch of Cascade and Lois Lynch of Bernard.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandchild, Jessica Martin; two brothers, James (Valeria) Rea and Michael Rea; a sister, Sr. Lois Ann Rea, OSF; brothers-in-law, Paul McDonnell, Willie George, Ray Wubben, Jim O’Shea and John Lynch; and his parents-in-law, Gerald and Harriet Lynch.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Shady Rest Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeanette and Jennie, and Rev. Douglas Loecke for all the care and support they gave to Dave.

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

Janet Fessler

Janet Fessler, 82, of Asbury, Iowa and most recently of Assisi Assisted Living in Dubuque passed away on September 11, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 13th, 2019 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church. Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

Janet was born on August 17, 1937 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Ken and Elizabeth (Jochum) Hammel. She married Robert “Bob” Fessler on October 4, 1958 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Janet worked at Pickle Barrell Subs, Big Apple Bagels and most recently at the Hy-Vee Bakery on Asbury.

Mom was an angel on earth. According to Merriam Webster, an angel is “a person with exemplary conduct or virtue and a spiritual being to act as a messenger of God.” Mom encompassed what it meant to be an angel.

She is survived by her children Ann Hansen, of Manitowoc, WI, Susan (John) O’Neill, of Janesville, WI, Robert “Bob” (Deborah) Fessler, of Pella, IA, Francis (Tammy) Fessler, of Brentwood, TN, Jeannette Fessler, of Dubuque, Andy (MariEllen) Fessler, of Hazel Green, WI, and Nichole (Chad) Schockemoehl, of Dubuque; 23 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; one brother Bob (Joyce) Hammel.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Bob; her mother and father-in-law; sister Rita Bettcher and brothers Jim and Jack Hammel.

A Janet Fessler memorial fund will be established.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Covey, Dr. Mohr and the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Assisi Village for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave to Janet.

Donald R. Sheldon

Donald R. Sheldon, age 52, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home unexpectedly on August 26, 2019, at home. To honor Don’s life funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Saturday at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Tom C. Shinkle of Grandview United Methodist Church officiating. To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 14, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Don was born on November 17, 1966, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Richard and Namie (Aoki) Sheldon.

Don was born and raised in Dubuque and attended Dubuque Senior High School. After high school he attended cosmetology school in Dubuque and graduated in Chicago. Don put his considerable talents with hair color, styling and makeup application to good use, always taking great pride in making sure his clients looked their best when they left his chair. He was always in high demand and women would line up just hoping to get an appointment time with him. Don definitely had an artistic side and also enjoyed putting his special touch on interior design projects. He was united in marriage to Anne Lee in Dubuque, and they had two wonderful sons together. He would later go on to marry Nicole Smeathers in Dubuque. We are saddened at the sudden and unexpected loss of Don from our lives, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now resting in peace.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his 2 children,
Ryan Sheldon, Denver, CO and Blaine (Maggie McGonigle) Sheldon, Chicago, IL;

his 2 grandsons,
James and Hayes Sheldon, Chicago, IL;

his wife,
Nicole Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

his step-daughter,
Silver Losh, Maquoketa, IA;

his father,
Richard Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

his brother,
Timothy (Leah) Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

and his nephew and niece,
Bryce and Brittany Sheldon, both of Dubuque, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Namie Sheldon.

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

Marjorie E. Rohwedder

Marjorie E. Rohwedder, 86, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at the Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, September 14, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 13, 2019, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.

Marjorie Ellen Ehlers was born on March 7, 1933 in Monmouth Township, Jackson County, Iowa, to Edward and Ellen Christina (Snyder) Ehlers. She was a 1950 graduate of Baldwin High School. She married Willis Edward Rohwedder on July 22, 1950 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 27, 2004.

Marjorie was a housewife who had also worked at the Spot Café, co-owned the Baldwin DX Station with her husband, and lastly worked for Ben Franklin Store in Maquoketa.

She enjoyed playing bingo, listening to country music, and camping.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Ellen Rickels of Monmouth, IA, Robert (Sherry) Rohwedder of Baldwin, IA, and William “Bill” Rohwedder of Baldwin, IA; 4 grandchildren, Brian, Joni, Becky and Rachel; and 2 great-grandchildren, Austin and Aiden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter Margaret, a half-sister Leona Miller, and a son-in-law Howard Rickels.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marjorie E. Rohwedder memorial fund has been established.

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

Mrs. Kathleen Klocker

Mrs. Kathleen Klocker, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa, sailed peacefully to heaven on Monday evening, September 9, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, September 12 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, where a prayer service will be held at 7:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM Friday, September 13, 2019 at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as Celebrant.

Kathy was born in Dubuque, Iowa, to her loving parents, Leonard and Louise Stecklein. She grew up in a large, beautiful family of 8 children. From childhood until the end, she was surrounded by the love and support of her siblings, their spouses, and the wonderful nieces and nephews they gave her. Over the years, her large Stecklein family brought her much joy and comfort, as well as my dad’s family, and their closest friends.

In her late 20s, she met Morris B. Klocker, and their courtship quickly led to a loving and loyal marriage that brought them 3 children: Christopher, Michael and Jessie.

Kathy forever enjoyed traveling, and what began as trips with a cousin or friend eventually turned into family vacations – and these, of course, are some of Kathy and Morrie’s favorite memories. She enjoyed exploring big cities and historical places, and managed to get Morris B. to dance her around the world, visiting places such as Italy, Costa Rica, Hawaii, France, England, and Mexico. Kathy and Morrie equally loved the ocean, and so the most special of their trips were at the beach, where the Klockers and McCormicks spent a week playing in the surf, drinking wine and beers, getting too much sun, laughing, and playing games that Kathy usually won. She adored her grandchildren, and to be able to spend extended amounts of time with them was one of her very favorite things in the world.

Kathy was very intelligent and an avid reader. She had a hunger for knowledge, and devoured daily papers, magazines, articles and anything else she could get her hands on. As learning was so important to her, she encouraged her children to work hard in and value their education. And is often the case with readers, Kathy was a writer as well. She had a knack for expressing herself beautifully in letters, cards and notes. She often created little poems for special occasions, like a new baby in the family, an engagement, or a moment she didn’t want to forget. Her husband was a big fan of her poems, and one of his favorites is the poem she wrote of the ocean.

A kind and empathetic woman, it is no surprise that Kathy was an amazing mother. As a little girl, her daughter Jessie remembers Kathy washing tears off her face with a warm washcloth, reminding her that, “Tomorrow is a new day.” Her son Michael has an early memory of her boiling water on the kitchen stove, and hauling it downstairs so the little plastic pool water would be a bit warmer for her children. Most impressively and beautiful however, has been her strength, guidance and dedication to her first-born, Christopher. She was a leader and role model in the Dubuque community, recognizing and advocating for what was best for Christopher. She continuously worked hard to communicate with doctors, psychiatrists and caretakers, to help them better understand her oldest son and his needs. Much of her active reading and learning was dedicated to keeping up with the newest research on Fragile X Syndrome, sharing it with her family, and helping them to understand it as well.

Kathy is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Morris B, who she loved with all her heart; her children Christopher Klocker of Dubuque, Michael and wife Lily Klocker (of Highlands Ranch, CO), Jessie and husband Kevin McCormick (of Sioux City, Iowa); her three grandchildren Addison Klocker, Jillian Klocker and Wrenn McCormick; her siblings Theresa Houselog, Betty (sister) and Norm Zimmer, Mary (sister) and Jim Smith, June Stecklein (sister-in -law), Denny (brother) and Nancy Stecklein, Len (brother) and Diane Stecklein, Luann (sister) and Danny Hillary.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Morrie’s parents Martina and Vincent Klocker, her brother-in-law Wayne Houselog, brother Jerry Houselog, and special family member Brian McCormick. We strongly believe that all of them were waiting with open arms to welcome her and greet her with a delicious Manhattan.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Home Instead, for their endless support, education and comfort during this difficult time.

A memorial has been established in her name to the Fragile X Foundation.

A VideoTribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.hskfhcares.com.

Eugene F. Schultz

Eugene F. “Gene” Schultz, 90, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2019 at Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2019 at the Miller Funeral home in East Dubuque, IL. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by the members of the Dubuque Marine Corps. League.

Visitation is from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and after 9:30 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Gene was born on May 13, 1929 in Freeport, IL, the son of Paul and Emma (Bastian) Schultz. He was united in marriage to Elizabeth C. “Betty” Schilling on April 15, 1950 at the Wesley United Methodist Church in East Dubuque. She preceded him in death on March 4, 2000.

Gene served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

He worked at Caradco Mfg. Co and Jeld Wen until his retirement in 1991.

Gene was a former member of Carpenters Local #678. He was an avid bowler and member of the Dubuque Bowling Association. One of his biggest joys was bowling (3 generations) with his son and grandson at Nationals in Las Vegas. He enjoyed fishing and his trips to the Diamond Jo. He was also a former Little League coach for East Dubuque.

Surviving are three children, Mike (Laura Schaul) Schultz of Dubuque, Sherri McClain of San Rafael, CA, and Lori Bowers of Dubuque; 10-grandchildren and 15-great- grandchildren; his brother, Harold (Shirley) West of Aurora, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Betty, a son, James C. Schultz in 1974, and a sister, Mildred (Cletus) Weydert.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Whalen & staff at Tri State Dialysis, Kim & staff at Grand Meadows, and the staff at Sunset Park Place for the wonderful care given to Gene.

In lieu of flowers, a Eugene Schultz Memorial fund has been established.

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

Raymond J. Sadler

Raymond J. “Ray” Sadler, 91, of Stonehill, formerly of East Dubuque, was called home peacefully on Sunday September 8, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery with full military honors by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Ray was born on February 26, 1928 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Clarence and Marie (Polfer) Sadler. He was a member of the United States Army and served Active Duty as part of the Peace Troops post WWII. It was then that he met the love of life, Irmingard Voelk of Durach, Germany. They were united in marriage on July 12, 1955 at Sacred Heart in Fillmore, Iowa.

He worked at the Dubuque Pack until his retirement. Ray also owned Tri-State Water Conditioning Sales and Service for 40 years.

Ray enjoyed being outdoors and entertained many hobbies including bowling, fishing, hunting, camping, woodworking, and especially gardening, which he taught to many of his grandchildren. His greatest pastime was watching the Chicago Cubs as he never missed a game. He also enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family, including his many trips to Germany to visit family and friends. He spent many hours playing games, solving riddles, and joking with those that call him “Opa”. Ray was a hard worker, but always found the time to be with those he cherished.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory are his soul mate, Irma; daughter Judy (Jim) Mohr of Dubuque, son Merlin (Chris) Sadler of East Dubuque; 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and siblings, Carolyn Dotterweich of Monticello, Iowa, Helen (Virgil) Gaul of Dubuque, Iowa, Delores (Eugene) Ginter of Dickeyville, WI, Inez (Leo) Kinsella of Bernard, Iowa, Joanne (George) Bergfeld of Peosta, Iowa, brother-in-law Edwin Clemen of New Vienna, Iowa and many nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, James Sadler, a sister, Rose Marie, and a son, Francis Sadler.

In lieu of flowers, a Ray Sadler memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice and Stonehill for the loving care they provided to Ray during his final moments.

Irene C. Dirks

Irene C. Dirks, 89, of rural Center Junction, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, September 8, 2019, at Pinicon Place Senior Living in Anamosa after complications of a fall.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 pm Wednesday, September 11, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello. Visitation will continue from 10 – 11 am Thursday morning at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church near Monticello prior to funeral services. Funeral service will be held at 11 am Thursday, September 12, 2019, at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church near Monticello with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Wade Reddy will officiate.

Irene was born January 25, 1930 in Earlville, Iowa, the daughter of Harley and Mary (Moorman) Malone. She and her family moved frequently as she grew up. One of her first jobs was double entry accounting at Eclipse Lumber in Manchester and went on to several other jobs in the Anamosa area.

She met John Henry Dirks in March of 1948. Irene worked in Estes Park, CO, when John Henry enlisted in the Army and served in Germany during the Korean War. She married John Henry Dirks on April 23, 1955, at Immaculate Conception Church in Cedar Rapids. Together they farmed and milked cows in Jones County. She also enjoyed working off of the farm as Assistant Postmaster in Center Junction and Scotch Grove.

Surviving are her sons: Colin (Kari) of Coralville, IA and Keith (Jackee) of Center Junction, IA, 5 grandchildren: Ryan (Alyssa) Dirks,of Rockville MD and Alison (Ryan) Richardson and their daughter,Ava, of Stevens Point, WI, Danelle (Chris) Snyder, and their children, Cole and Sage, of Onslow, IA, Kiel Dirks and his daughter, Aaliyah, of Monticello and Richelle Dirks and her sons, Nixon and Rowan, of Wyoming; and a sister, Marilyn (Don) Meier of Lowden, IA.

She was preceded in death by her husband, siblings: Harley “Bill” (Glenna) Malone, and Beulah (Jim) Seehusen.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Scott A. Hermsen

Scott A. Hermsen, 35, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of Dyersville passed away Thursday, September 5, 2019, at ARC-Carriage Hill Community Living, Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 12, 2019 at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Friday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Scott was born April 2, 1984 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of the late Mark and Lois (Prier) Hermsen. He always greeted and left with a Scotty hug. Scott was such a loving person, he will be missed dearly by everyone that ever knew him.

His favorites were John Deere, Firefighters, and construction equipment. Scott’s favorite drink was “John Deere Pop”, Mt. Dew. He was a resident of ARC in Dubuque for 11 years.

Survivors include his siblings: Cynthia (Philip) Ungs and Adam Hermsen both of Luxemburg, maternal grandfather, Eugene Prier, paternal grandparents: Donald and Grace Hermsen of Dyersville, nieces & nephews: Adalynn, Gracie and Peter Ungs, aunts & uncles: Joseph (Lynn) Hermsen, Gary Hermsen, Alan (Deb) Hermsen, Mary (Howard) Zuckerman, Ann (Pat) Dunkel, Lisa (David) Sweeney, Jane (Brian) Bockenstedt, David Prier, Carl (Julie) Prier, Wayne (Beverly) Prier, Donald (Christine) Prier, Dale (Sandy) Prier, Allen (Joyce) Prier, Mark (Annette) Prier, Daniel (Kim) Prier, Elaine (Cletus) Urbain, Janice (Wayne) Steffen.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois in July of 2002, his father, Mark in May of 2019, maternal grandmother, Lucille Prier, aunt and uncle, Patricia and Dale Demmer.

Scott was very passionate about collecting pop tabs for camp, so in his memory, please remember to donate your pop tabs to Camp Courageous.

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

Judith A. (Borkenhagen) Clark

Judith Ann (Borkenhagen) Clark, age 80, of Dubuque, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 7, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer that weakened her heart and body.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. A time of sharing for Judy will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, September 12, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Entombment will be at Linwood Cemetery in the Clark family mausoleum.

Born November 14, 1938 in Beloit, WI, she was the daughter of August Frederick and Goldie Mae Borkenhagen. Born at a small weight, she was a strong individual that could hold her own.

She was united in marriage to Carroll Clinton Clark, her love for life, on February 28, 1959 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Beloit, WI. They met when she was working at Spud Nut Restaurant and he was doing his apprenticeship for tool and die making. They were blessed with 60 years, five children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

After marriage and moving to Dubuque, she worked various jobs from waitressing to a drive-in. With her husband and children, they had several businesses selling Christmas trees, operating laundromats, and apartment buildings.

This allowed her to do her most favorite job, being a mom. Judy was a devoted wife and mother, who enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family and her children. Cars were her passion and she could fix anything. She was very creative and talented. She had a familiar face and was thought to be known by many. Judy was an honest soul and would tell you her thoughts frequently. She was always quick with wit and a joke to make someone smile but would be there with a listening ear no matter how long you needed to talk.

Those left to cherish Judy’s memory include her husband, C.C. Clark; her children, Gail (Gervacio) Clark-Varelo, Craig (Michele) Clark, Chris Clark, Susan (Fred) Davis, and June (Stephen) Markham, all of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Dustin, Ariel, Collin, Samantha, Kirby, and Peggy; one great-granddaughter, Eleanor; one brother, Roger Borkenhagen of Atlanta, GA; and several cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family thanks Grand River Medical Center, Dr. Herman, Dr. Tony, Dr. Konz, nurses Sandy and Linda, and oncology staff for their care and concern.

A photo tribute video can be viewed and online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfhcares.com

Ronald T. Horan Sr.

Ronald T. Horan Sr., 80, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday evening, September 5, 2019, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating Ronald’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, September 9, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again after 10 A.M. at the church on Tuesday.

Ronald Thomas Horan was born on January 23, 1939 in Bellevue, Iowa, to John Harry and Thelma Christina (Mangler) Horan. He was educated in Jackson County Country School #2 near Springbrook and attended Bellevue Marquette High School. He married Mary Ann Rockwell in 1963.

Ronald worked as a heavy equipment operator for Union Operating Engineers Local #234, and then owned and operated his own excavating business, Ron Horan Construction for over 50 years.

Ronald was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. He was an avid stock car racing fan and participant, and recreational aviation enthusiast. He enjoyed hunting, canoeing and most importantly spending time with his family and grandchildren. Additionally, he loved his horse, Ambush, and his dog, Shep.

Those left to honor Ronald’s memory include his wife, Mary Horan of Maquoketa, IA; children, Ronald (Delores) Horan Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, and Lisa (Brad) Barnes of Maquoketa, IA; 4 grandchildren, Jacob and Josie Horan, and Abigail and Austin Barnes; a sister Marcella “Sally” Rowan of Andrew, IA; 6 nephews and 8 nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother John.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Ronald T. Horan Sr. memorial fund has been established.

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