Obituaries Archive

Letha A. Mihalakis

Letha Ann “Midge” (Billmeyer) Mihalakis, age 88, of Dubuque, IA was called home peacefully at 3:38 a.m., on Sunday, December 16, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Midge’s life, funeral services will be held 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, with Elder Tony Harvey officiating. To celebrate Midge’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until the time of services at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Midge was born on July 29, 1930 in rural Turkey River, IA, daughter of Frank Joseph and Elizabeth Ann Bolsinger. At the age of 18, Letha moved from Turkey River to Dubuque to work in the Button Factory. She was introduced by friends to her beloved husband, John “Junnie” Mihalakis, whom many times described her as “a fiery red-head”. Junnie knew at that moment that he had found the love of his life. They were married on February 23, 1949, in Dubuque, and the two were blessed with eleven children and sixty-nine wonderful years together. Junnie also bragged that in their sixty-nine years of marriage “we never once had a fight and repeatedly described her as the best woman in the universe.”

Midge happily embraced her full-time role of wife and mother, taking great pride in caring for her children and creating a home that was warm and inviting. She was a strong independent woman whose primary focus was her husband, her family and her home. Being the eldest in a large family herself, she also spent many years being caretaker to some of her younger siblings. Beyond a doubt, Midge’s family was the most important aspect of her life, and when the grandchildren started coming along, she was overjoyed to have even more little ones to share her love with.

When she managed to find a little free time in her days, Midge enjoyed spending time outside in the bright sunshine, tending to her beautiful flowers, in the same meticulous way she approached everything. Despite her private nature, she had an incredible sense of humor and a most contagious laugh that filled the room.

Her true gift to her family was a lesson in how to live a full life of contentment by embracing the simple things.

Midge enjoyed traveling whether it be a destination trip or a simple day out with her daughters. Midge and Junnie loved taking family vacations, fishing and entertaining at their home away from home in Winona, Minnesota. She had an affinity for her cats, “Baby”, Bertie” and “Sonny Boy”, providing them with the same love and affection she was known for throughout her life.

Midge was a selfless person whose compassion and love for life, fun and family had no boundaries. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our sweet Midge, the perfect embodiment of humility and simplicity, especially so close to the holiday season, but are eternally grateful for all the wonderful memories we have created throughout the years and will cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Midge’s memory include

her loving husband,
John P. “Junnie” Mihalakis, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Viola McLaughlin, Dubuque, IA,
Janice Lenz, Dubuque, IA,
Debbie Oster, Hazel Green, WI,
Vickie (Pat) Ellis, Dubuque, IA,
Clyde (Tina) Mihalakis, Dubuque, IA,
Kim (Rich) Rink, Dubuque, IA,
Joleen (Jim) Hedley, Dubuque, IA,
Mark Mihalakis, Dubuque, IA
and Ann (Mike) Cicciarelli, Brownsburg, IN;

her 27 grandchildren;

her 52 great-grandchildren;

her 8 great great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Richard L. (Cyndy) Billmeyer,
Alvin (Betty) Billmeyer,
Larry D. (Kathy) Billmeyer,
Wilma Jean Billmeyer-Moore
and Clarence “Pete” Horstman;

and a brother-in-law,
Merlin Hoisington.

Midge was preceded in death by her parents; 2 children, an infant son and daughter, Regina Kay; 2 sons-in-law, John McLaughlin, Jr. and James “Jim” Oster; her siblings, Evaline “Red” Ingles, Carol Ann Billmeyer, Shirley Ann Hoisington, Harold F. “Rusty” (Betty) Billmeyer, Clyde E. Billmeyer, George B. (Sharon) Billmeyer and Edna I. Billmeyer; her half-siblings, Ivan (Irma) Billmeyer, Fern (Earl) Herzog, Bertha D. (Everett) White, Donald J. (Florence) Billmeyer and Anna (Bill) Halfhill-Leik; and sister-in-law, Barbara Horstman.

Midge’s family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kristin, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Midge and the entire family.

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

Brent K. Brillhart

Brent K. Brillhart, age 65, of Oklahoma City, OK, and formerly of Dubuque, was called home on December 8, 2018, in Oklahoma City. To honor Brent’s life, there will be a prayer service will be held at 5:30 p.m., on Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 Saint Joseph Street.

Brent was born on December 2, 1953, in Dyersville, Iowa, son of Ralph J. and Jeanette R. (Budan) Brillhart.

Brent was born in Dyersville before the family moved to Dubuque, where he attended Dubuque Senior High School. He was a “jack of all trades”, working as a billboard graphics person for Hardie Advertising, installing siding with his brother-in-law, Dale Marti, and finally as an electrician with Local 721 in Oklahoma City. He was an avid motorcycle rider, owning several Harleys throughout the years, and was always the go to fixer for his buddies when they had problems with their bikes. It was a well known fact that neither rain nor sleet kept Brent from a bike ride.

“Sure Mom, I’ll make it home”.

Those left to cherish Brent’s memory include

his daughter,
Shelby Brillhart, Colorado;

his siblings,
Bill (Ginny) Brillhart, Broomfield, CO,
Bruce (Rose) Brillhart, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Jodi) Brillhart, Carson City, NV,
Beckie (Dale) Marti, Whitney, NE,
Barry (Lori) Brillhart, Dubuque, IA
and Belinda Mary Jo (Bob) Redding, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Butch Beckman, Dubuque, IA;

and many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.

Brent was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 sisters, Bonnie Brillhart and Bette Beckman.

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

Vincent Francis Rubner

Vincent Francis Rubner, 97, of New Vienna, Iowa, formerly of Worthington, passed away Saturday, December 15, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., December 19, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, where a Vigil Service will be held at 3 p.m., and an American Legion Service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9 to 10 a.m. on December 20, 2018, from the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, December 20, 2018, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Conway will officiate.

Vince was born December 27, 1920 in Worthington, Iowa, the son of Paul and Mary Mae Rubner. He married Mary Irene Heisler on November 26, 1946, in Dyersville, Iowa.

He was an avid fisherman, taking numerous trips to International Falls in Minnesota. He was highly involved in the Dyersville Legion and a proud veteran. He was a devoted husband, never far from his wife and very seldom seen apart. His love for Purple Martins grew over time, building Purple Martin houses and watching them out the kitchen window. He is probably remembered most for his 37 years of service maintaining the County roads.

Vince is survived by his 4 sons, David (Betty) of Andover, MN, Kenneth (Bev) of Marion, IA, Thomas (Deb) and Daniel (Kim) both of Worthington, IA; 9 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Marilyn Rubner.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Irene, parents, and 3 brothers; Bob Rubner, Clarence (LaVern) Rubner, and Don (Virginia) Rubner.

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

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

Shirley Ann Sadler

Shirley Ann Sadler, 75, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away, Saturday, December 15, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Shirley may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Wednesday at the funeral home. Services for Shirley will held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding and Msgr. Wayne Ressler and Very Rev. Mark Ressler and Rev. Loras Otting concelebrating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born June 16, 1943 in Decorah, Iowa, daughter of Palmer Elmer and Florence Helen (Hemesath) Johnson. She is a graduate of Ossian DeSales. On June 19, 1965 she was united in marriage to Robert Sadler at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was employed at Aquin Elementary in Cascade, Iowa.

She enjoyed a good card game, she loved cooking, she especially enjoyed spending time with Bob, her children and grandchildren.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Sadler of Cascade, IA; four children, Michael (Amanda) Sadler of Frisco, TX, William (Jill) Sadler of Durand, IL, Terence Sadler of Warroad, MN and Kathy (Joe) Bargo of Iowa City, IA; 7 grandchildren, Robbie Sadler, Emily Sadler, Abby Sadler, Ryann Sadler, Katelyn Bargo, Lauren Bargo and Megan Bargo; 6 siblings, Sharon (David) Mashek of Spillville, IA, Mary Lou (Ray) Gleason of Cedar Rapids, IA, Linda (Dennis) Hageman and Jean (Monte) Martin both of Ossian, IA, Denise (Randy) Henning of Elgin, IA, and David (Brenda) Johnson of Ossian, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Mark Johnson and a sister in infancy.

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

James M. Kelzer

James M. “Jim” Kelzer, 79, of East Dubuque, IL passed away on December 13, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 17th, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque, IL with Rev. Dean Smith officiating. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of mass. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Jim was born on June 26, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Edmund and Estella (Kurt) Kelzer. He married Darlene Rose Westemeier, on August 6, 1960. Love, laughter and a good life for 58 years.

He is survived by his wife Darlene; five sons, Michael (Brenda) Kelzer, Bob (Rita) Kelzer, Roger (Michelle) Kelzer, Ken (Molly) Kelzer and Marty (Hannah) Kelzer. Fifteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Two broters John (Regina) Kelzer and Bill (Barb) Kelzer; in-laws, Dick (Delores) Westemeier and Don (Bonnie) Westemeier.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Rose; his parents Ed and Estella Kelzer; and his in-laws Ed and Bernice Westemeier.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center for all their wonderful care and kindness given to Jim.

Donald J. Wolf

Donald J. Wolf, age 87, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 7:58 p.m., on Friday, December 14, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center-Dubuque, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Don’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 468 Balltown Road, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating. To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m., until 8:00 p.m., on Monday, December 17, 2018, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Balltown, Iowa, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 1:30 p.m. Family and friends may also visit from 9:15 a.m. until 10:15 a.m., on Tuesday at the Church. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is in charge of arrangements.

Don was born on January 24, 1931, in Rickardsville, Iowa, son of John and Clara (Wilwert) Wolf.

Don graduated high school and went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was raised on the family farm, so he was no stranger to hard work, and eventually purchased his own property in Balltown, where he happily farmed for several years. He was united in marriage to Dolores Juran on June 30, 1954, at Immaculate Conception Church in North Buena Vista, Iowa, and the two were blessed with 48 years together and 6 adored children, before Dolores was sadly called home ahead of him on March 21, 2003. Fortunately for Don, he would eventually find love once again, and was united in marriage to Dorothy (Kress) Lahey, on December 30, 2005, at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Balltown, and the two would lovingly blend their families into one big happy group. Don was a very active man and was a member of several organizations including the Farley Knights of Columbus, the American Legion Farley Post #0656, the Rickardsville Forresters, St. Francis of Assisi Church and the Retired Senior League Bowling group. Bowling was definitely Don’s passion, he bowled in 3 leagues during the winter time and 2 leagues in the summer, always shooting for that perfect 300, which he proudly attained. Don enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors, and always looked forward to heading out to his favorite fishing hole to cast a line in hopes of catching “the big one”, earning him bragging rights for the rest of the day. Family, was beyond a doubt, the most important aspect of Don’s life, and he cherished all of the time he spent with them, especially looking forward to the family gatherings that brought everyone together to create wonderful memories. We are deeply saddened today as we must say goodbye to Don for now, but look forward to the day we are all reunited in Heaven at the greatest family reunion ever held.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his loving wife,
Dorothy Wolf, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Cathy (Mark) Dupont, Balltown, IA,
Randy (Lisa) Wolf, Dallas Center, IA,
Jeanie Delaney, Dubuque, IA,
Joan (Bob) Dupont, Dubuque, IA,
Lorie (Jim) Schmitt, Sherrill, IA
and Connie (Brian) Feldman, Sherrill, IA;

his bonus step-children,
Francis (Lori) Lahey, Sherrill, IA,
Tina (Steve) Hefel, Madison, WI,
Tim (Amy) Lahey, Sherrill, IA,
Theresa (Scott) Ostwinkle, Farley, IA,
Greg (Trish) Lahey,
Ed (Megan) Lahey
and Tony (Jody) Lahey, all of Sherrill, IA;

17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren;

21 bonus step-grandchildren;

his bonus step-son-in-law,
Wayne LaVigne, Chicago, IL;

his siblings,
Mary (Don) Brimeyer, Dubuque, IA,
Melita (Lyal) Pfeiler, Rickardsville, IA,
Leon (Rosie) Wolf, Rickardsville, IA,
Alice Cook, Bernard, IA
and Carolyn (Jim) Pimlott, Cedar Rapids, IA;

and his in-laws,
Herman Kloser, Dubuque, IA,
Virginia Juran, Holy Cross, IA,
Anna Mae Welter, Dubuque, IA,
Paul Kress, Dubuque, IA,
Norbert (Shirley) Kress, Zwingle, IA,
Leo (Betty) Kress, Sherrill, IA,
Jim (Janet) Kress, Sherrill, IA
and Arthur “A.J.” (Cindy) Kress, Dubuque, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his 1st wife, Dolores Wolf; his bonus step-daughter, Monica LaVigne; his siblings, Francis Wolf and Marvin Wolf; and his in-laws, Robert (Donna) Juran, William Juran, Rosie (Glen “Bud”) Gibbs, Madonna (Fritz) Roling, Tony Juran, Ralph Welter, Dale Cook, Frances Kress and Mathilda “Tillie” Kloser.

Don’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the 2nd Floor Cardiac Unit of Mercy Hospital for all of their kind and compassionate care of Don 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

Alan D. Draper

Alan D. Draper, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday morning, December 14, 2018, at the Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Alan’s life will be held at 1 P.M., Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will be held at a later date.

Alan Darrell Draper was born on June 29, 1932 in Davenport, Iowa. He was the youngest of three children born to Benjamin Earl and Clarice Marie (Pletcher) Draper. He was a 1950 graduate of Davenport High School. He married Cecelia Ann Hunt on April 1, 1950 in Rock Island, Illinois. He later married Paula Kay Alexander on November 11, 1977 in Davenport, Iowa.

Alan had worked as a salesman until his retirement. He had sold automobiles and all kinds of advertising including television and radio as well as the Yellow pages. In retirement, he did home remodeling and owned rental properties.

Alan loved to do odd jobs, tinker and play cards, especially Canasta. He was known as a people person who always liked to visit.
Those left to honor Alan’s memory include his wife, Paula Draper of Maquoketa, IA; children, Steve (Dottie) Draper of Omaha, NE, Pamela (Roger) Spicher of Elkhart, IN, Paul (Cindy) Draper of SC, James Draper of Davenport, IA, and John Regan of Maquoketa, IA; a sister, Caryl Corry of Seattle, WA; 14 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Beverly Williamson, a son Jeffrey Draper, and a daughter Wendy Draper.

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

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

Mary D. Kaiser

Mary D. Kaiser, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, died Saturday, December 15, 2018, at Luther Manor in Dubuque. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at Resurrection Church in Dubuque. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday at the church. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Wednesday at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Mary was born on January 17, 1943, in Platteville, Wisconsin, the daughter of Ervin and Pauline (Droessler) Schroeder. She graduated from Cuba City High School in 1961. Mary married Thomas A. Kaiser on September 18, 1965, at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville.

Mary worked as a beautician and later cut hair for family members for many years. She also worked at Armstrong’s and retired from Medical Associates as a mail courier in 2008. She loved baking and cooking and always had baked goods for family members. Mary enjoyed feeding her birds.

Survivors include her husband, Tom, of Dubuque; two daughters, Tammy (Bill) McDermott, of Swisher, IA, and Sue (Lee) Klein, of Sherrill, IA; two sons, Todd (Stacey) Kaiser, of Dubuque, IA, and Thomas J. Kaiser, of Valpraiso, IN; six sisters, Sister Deanna Schroeder, of Milwaukee, WI, Jeri Lyons and Susan (Don) Barth, both of Cuba City, WI; Ruth (Tom) Kieler and Rose (Doug) Rouse, both of Platteville, WI, and Shirley (Lee) Millman, of Potosi, WI; three brothers, Steve (Mara) Schroeder, of Dickeyville, WI, Tom (friend, Gail Fritschler) Schroeder, of Eau Claire, WI, and Joseph (Donna) Schroeder, of Cuba City, WI; two sisters-in-law, Michelle Schroeder, of Cuba City, WI and Delia Schroeder, of Dickeyville, WI; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Jeff; a brother, Eugene “Gene” Schroeder; a sister, Judy Riniker; a sister-in-law, Marsha Schroeder; two brothers-in-law, Mike Lyons and Walter Riniker; and a nephew, Eric Lyons.

A Mary D. Kaiser Memorial Fund has been established.

A special thanks to the staff of the Memory Care Unit at Luther Manor.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net.

Sylvia B. Costello

Sylvia B. Costello, 99, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Thursday morning, December 13, 2018, at the Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Sylvia’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, December 17, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 2 to 5 P.M., Sunday, December 16, 2018 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

Sylvia Bernice Jorgensen was born on November 20, 1919 in Elwood, Iowa, to Hans and Sophia (Jorgensen) Jorgensen. She was a 1937 graduate of Baldwin High School and then received her Cosmetology Certificate from Paris Academy of Beauty in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She married Cecil Costello on June 10, 1946 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, Iowa.

Prior to her marriage, Sylvia had worked as a hairdresser in Wheatland and Maquoketa. She then became a homemaker and raised a family of six children. After her children got older, she worked at Mel’s Super Valu in Maquoketa and for the Mississippi Valley Milk Producer’s Lab.

Sylvia was a member of the Bloomfield Township Homemaker’s, and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar and its Altar and Rosary Society. She enjoyed dining out, shopping, playing cards and family gatherings. She especially enjoyed traveling and was always ready to go somewhere whenever she was asked.

Those left to honor Sylvia’s memory include her children, Joe (Patricia) Costello of Ankeny, IA, Jim (Mary) Costello of Fairbank, IA, John Costello of Princeton, IL, Pat (Sherri) Costello of Clarksville, IN, and Susan (Richard) Kunde of Baldwin, IA; 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, several step-grandchildren, 2 step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Cecil on May 21, 1980, a son and daughter-in-law Jerry and Susan Costello, brothers Elroy and Alvin Jorgensen, and a sister Cordelia Pape.

“The family would like to give special thanks to the entire staff at Maquoketa Care Center.”

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Sylvia B. Costello memorial fund has been established.

Online Condolences may be left at www.carsonandson.com.

Darlene M. Oberfoell

Darlene M. Oberfoell, 72, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Friday, December 14, 2018 at Luther Manor of Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Darlene may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, December 16, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m.

A private family burial will be held on Monday, December 17, 2018 at Sat. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

She was born January 27, 1946 in Guttenberg, Iowa, daughter of Edward and Jean (McIntire) Dyer. She received her education in the Guttenberg schools. On November 20, 1965 she was united in marriage to Joseph C. Oberfoell at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on September 7, 2009.

She enjoyed putting puzzles together, gardening, canning, her stamp collection and playing with her dog, Teddy.

She is survived by four children, Clarence, Anna, Rita, and Marie Oberfoell; a sister, Frances Weber of Kansas; and her dog, Teddy.
She is also preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Dave Dyer.

Memorials for Darlene may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ryan Stille, his nurses, the staff of Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Sarah, Jeanette, Amy and Amy.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

James E. Pennekamp

James E. Pennekamp, 80, of Dyersville, Iowa , formerly of Potosi, Wisconsin passed away Friday, December 14, 2018, at Oak Crest Manor, Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 3 to 8 p.m. Monday, December 17, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue from 9 to 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with burial in St. Andrew cemetery in Tennyson, Wisconsin. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Jim was born October 17, 1938, in Potosi, Wisconsin, the son of Lawrence and Laura Pennekamp. He married Joanne Marie Reynolds on October 21. 1958 in Lancaster, Wisconsin. She preceded him in death February 27, 1998. He later married Geraldine “Jerri” Kettmann Engler on August 23, 2002, in Dyersville, Iowa.

He was an avid outdoorsman, spending time fishing, hunting, golfing, and camping. He is a life member of the Knights of Columbus and the fourth degree Duborg Assembly. He enjoyed dancing, playing cards, particularly euchre, spending time with his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jerri; children: Brian (Susan) Pennekamp, of Stitzer, Wisconsin, Monica (Wayne) Jones, of Charles City, Iowa, Lisa (Scott) Dayton, of Shullsburg, Wisconsin, and Jason (Sharon) Pennekamp, of Platteville, Wisconsin; step-children: Mike (Bev) Engler and Paul (Deb) Engler, both of Worthington, Sharon (Richard) Cody of Dubuque, and Karla (Robert) Larsen of East Moline, a step-daughter-in-law, Erin Engler; 25 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; siblings: Donald (Rita) Pennekamp, Gerald Pennekamp, Ruth Kartman, Janice Blindert; and in-laws: Jean Reynolds and Cinda Pennekamp-Furry

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Laura Pennekamp; his first wife, Joanne, siblings: Vincent Pennekamp and Rodger Pennekamp; in-laws: Kathleen Pennekamp, Joyce Pennekamp, Dean Blindert, Larry Kartman, Rodger (Bonnie) Reynolds, and Kenneth Reynolds; and a step-son, Jon “Yish” Engler.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Francis Xavier Elementary School or Beckman Catholic High School.

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

Russell E. Faust

Russell E. Faust, 60, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2018, as a result of an auto accident near Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Wednesday morning, December 19, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa. Deacon Roger Riesberg will officiate.

Russ was born May 10, 1958, in Manchester, Iowa, the son of Terry and Lois (McDowell) Faust. He graduated from West Delaware High School in Manchester, and Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota.

He taught at Beckman Catholic High School from 1980 to 1989. He married Linda Gross on June 7, 1986, in Dubuque, Iowa. Together they owned & operated Faust Millwork and Cabinetry for the past 29 years, along with talented employees.

Russ is survived by his wife, Linda, twin daughters, Lauren (friend, Conner Klostermann) & Kristen Faust of Dyersville, his mother, Lois Faust of Manchester, siblings: Connie Faust of Manchester, Donna (John) Heying of Elkader, Pam (Mark) Kiefer of Dyersville, in-laws: Susan Gross, Rosemary (Jon) Sladky, Bill (Chris) Gross and Patty (Steve) Neyens, all of Dubuque; many nieces & nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terry in 2003.

Russ thought the world of his wife, twin daughters and dog.

Memorials are preferred.

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

Georgene M. McGovern

Georgene Mae McGovern, 87, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at River Bend Retirement Community in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Georgene may call from 2 to 8 p.m. on Friday, December 14, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., on Saturday, December 15th at the funeral home.

Services for Georgene will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 15, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Phil Kruse presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born March 22, 1931 in Sand Springs, Iowa, daughter of George F. and Eva M. (Kramer) Turnis. She received her education in the Sacred Heart School in Monticello, Iowa. On June 18, 1955 she was united in marriage to James “Bud” McGovern at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sand Springs, Iowa. He preceded her in death on January 12, 2018.

Georgene worked in the Kitchen at Mount Carmel for many years. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was also an active gardener and enjoyed canning her produce and she was especially known for her strawberry jam.

She is survived by eleven children, Pat (Lynn) McGovern of Peosta, Tom (Kate) McGovern of Davenport, Sue (Jerry) Ross, Bill McGovern both of Epworth, Joe McGovern of Robins, Mike McGovern of Cedar Rapids, Dave (Christine) McGovern of Atkins, Theresa (John) Larsen of Waunakee, WI, Dan (Amy) McGovern of Peosta, Terry (Jenifer) McGovern of Earlville, and Becky (Terry) Kluesner of Hiawatha; 32 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Marty Turnis of Monticello, IA and Rosie Turnis of Cedar Rapids, IA; sisters-in-laws, Jacqueline Trumm, Joan (Jerry) Otting and Betty Leibold all of Cascade, IA, Linda (Urban) Manternach and Marie (Kenny) Green both of Dubuque, IA, Sr. Ann McGovern of Canton, OH, Donna Reinke of Ferndale, WA and a brother-in-law, Robert (Cheryl) McGovern of Madison, WI.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, Arnie Turnis, John (Mary Ann) Turnis, Clarence Turnis, Adrian (Mary Lou) Turnis and Bob (Betty) Turnis; a sister, Mary Ann Turnis; brothers-in-law, Thomas McGovern, Louie Leibold, Francis “Bud” Trumm, and Merlin Reinke; Sisters-in-law, Faith (Bob) Kelly and Louise McGovern.

Thank you to the kind and caring staff at River Bend Retirement Community, Memories Unit, for all the exceptional care given to our mother. Your love and kindness is greatly appreciated.

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

John J. Anstoetter

John Joseph Anthony Anstoetter, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2018. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Friday, December 14, 2018 at The Church of The Resurrection with Rev. Daniel Knepper officiating. Friends may call from 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral mass at the church.

John was born on January 16, 1931, to Ben and Lidwina “Liddy” (Kramer) Anstoetter on a farmstead in Epworth, Iowa. He attended country schools and graduated from St. Joseph High School in Farley, Iowa.

In 1952 John was drafted into the US Marine Corps, served during the Korean Conflict until 1954 and finished top of his class as a sharpshooter. After serving in the military, he was employed at Lenz Monument Company and later started his own business, Tri-State Cemetery Lettering, until retiring in 1995. He always put his customers first and worked late nights and weekends to make sure their wishes were fulfilled.
On September 17, 1955 John was united in marriage to Joan Knepper, daughter of William and Ida Knepper, at St Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa.

John was involved with the Boy Scouts, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and served as a pallbearer for St. Vincent De Paul Society. He was an active member at St Anthony’s Parish where he became one of the first twelve Eucharistic Ministers. He was also a member of St. Raphael Cathedral and most recently Resurrection Parish. John was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

One of John’s favorite past times was playing euchre with his grandchildren and poker with friends and relatives. He enjoyed golf as a member of Lacoma golf course. He was a true outdoorsman, avid hunter/fisherman, and nature lover.

Along with his wife Joan of 63 years, he is survived by his four children Janel (Steve) Stoffel, Steve (Cheryl) Anstoetter, Karen (Greg) Burgmeier, of Dubuque, and Mark (Martha) Anstoetter of Leawood, KS; thirteen grandchildren Melissa (Kenny) Magby, Marion, IA, Steven (Mandy) Anstoetter, Apex, NC, Eric (Jessica) Anstoetter, Clayton, NC, Bryce and Gabriel Anstoetter, Dubuque, IA, Lydia, Ella, Madeline Anstoetter, Henry and Peterson Stanton, Leawood, KS, Nick (Camille) Burgmeier, Ben Burgmeier, Kansas City, MO, Zach Burgmeier, Denver, CO; He is also survived by three great grandchildren Mason and Vayda Magby and Jeremy Burgmeier; sister, Mildred Koehler, and sister-in-laws Monie Anstoetter, Janaan (Ken) Krapfl, Shirley Maiers, Gladys Knepper and Ida Trumm; brothers-in-law George Knepper and Mike (Jean) Knepper.

John was preceded in death by his parents, father and mother-in-law, William and Ida Knepper, brothers Charlie (Carolyn, Vi, and Dorie), Jerry, Bernie, and Don Anstoetter, sisters Marion (John) Bell, Alice (Gene) Wieser, Sister Marirose, Esther (Fran) Joyce, and in-laws Ken Koehler, Clete Maiers, Carl (Marie) Knepper, Irene (Ernie) Recker, Walter (Mary) Knepper, Helen (Frank) Carroll, Rosalyn (Eddie) Ludwig, Loras (Mary) Knepper, Paul Knepper, Alma Knepper and John Trumm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Resurrection Church, St. Anthony’s Church or St. Vincent DePaul Society.

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

Delbert G. Mastin

Delbert G. Mastin, 83, of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at the home of his daughter in Mount Ayr, IA.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, December 15, at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1640 Main St., Dubuque, where there will be a funeral service at 12 p.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Delbert was born October 14, 1935 in Dubuque, the son of George and Delberta (Clark) Mastin. He married Patricia Beck on January 2, 1954 at St. Anthony Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on December 30, 2002.

Delbert was a jack-of-all-trades, who was always building something, working on someone’s car, or working with his hands. He built the family home many years ago, and never stopped adding on.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and loved sharing stories. Delbert would never turn down anyone who needed help. He was devoted to his family and loved teasing his grandkids. He had a laidback personality and a great sense of humor.

Delbert is survived by his children, Wanda (John) Schmitt of Peosta, Michael R. Mastin, of Dubuque, Patty (Jake) Graves of Mount Ayr, IA; 14 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; two brothers, Richard Mastin of Dubuque, and John (Jan) Mastin of Davenport, IA; one sister, Linda (Mike) Freed of Cassville, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Verna Matthews.

The family would like to extend a thank you to EveryStep Hospice, and his caregiver, Terri.

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