Obituaries Archive

Mary Kellogg

Mary “Kathy” Kellogg, age 66 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at Bethany Home in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family. To celebrate Kathy’s life, a private family service will be held at Bethany Home for her family and friends. Burial will be in the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathy’s family.

Kathy was born on February 4, 1953 in Dubuque, one of nine children to Paul J. and Cleo C. (Schmitt) Durkin.  She was a gentle and fun-loving soul from her earliest years and these traits never seemed to fade until her health issues arose later in life.  Kathy valued family above all and when she was able to begin one of her own, she really began to shine.  A little time roller skating with her sons was always a welcome addition to her daily agenda and if they were able to complete the day with an evening at the drive-in movies together you could be sure that Kathy would mark that day in the books as a complete success.  She was also very social at work and her nearly 20 years as the “Cadillac of Waitresses” car hop at the Point Drive-In were some of the most rewarding working hours anyone would ever have been blessed to experience.  Liking your job, enjoying the people you work with, and finding continual satisfaction with the customers you are serving is a trifecta that most folks will never get to experience.  Kathy not only appreciated the opportunities she had been given, but also understood the value and rarity of all of them.

Kathy was well known for her free spirit and natural ability to make the most of everyday. Never one to be pinned down, you could quite often watch her standing in conversations with one knee on the chair and her eye on the door.  Life was something Kathy was full of and she wasn’t going to relinquish her zeal for it without a fight.  Sadly, early onset Alzheimer’s was the diagnosis she would have to face in time and this once vibrant and beautiful woman would now have to slowly face a new reality. The years would pass by and her inner light would slowly fade, but through it all you could still see that her tender heart would never surrender.  We are burdened with heavy hearts today knowing that her spark has finally flickered out, but we find peace in knowing that her earthly struggles have now ceased and that she may even have the chance to sing a duet with Elvis among the heavenly angels as her new perfect and eternal state of being begins. Thank you, Kathy for being you and may all of the memories, examples and love you’ve left behind bring us peace and comfort during our time apart.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathy include,

her 2 adored sons,
Jeffrey J. “Jeff” (Cyndi) Travis, Elgin, Illinois,
and Cody A. Kellogg, Chicago, Illinois;

her siblings,
JoAnn Francois, Dubuque, Iowa,
Kim Burdt, Dubuque, Iowa,
Michael (Stephanie) Durkin, Silver Springs, Maryland,
and Tim (Kathy) Durkin, Dyersville, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, William Plein, Marty (Sue) Durkin, Janie Feldman and Patrick Durkin in infancy.

Kathy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Bethany Home, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the professional and wonderful care and support they have provided to Kathy and her family.

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

Robert C. Takes

Robert C. “Bob” Takes, age 67 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on Saturday, June 15, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Bob’s life, a private family service is being held. Burial will be in the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bob’s family.

Bob was born on May 30, 1952, in Dubuque, one of eleven children to Lawrence and Betty (Stokes) Takes.  He spent his formative years growing up in Farley, Iowa before joining the U.S. Marine Corps right after graduation.  He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and even reupped to complete 2 tours before returning home to Dubuque to find the love of his life, Rita Weidenbacher.  He was united in marriage to his beautiful bride on May 25, 1974 at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque and they were eventually blessed with 3 children, and 45 wonderful years together which Bob always took great pride in.  He loved his country, but he undeniably loved his family even more. His wife and kids never doubted for one second that they were his top priority in life and when the grandkids began to arrive, they quickly learned that Grandpa had a special place in his heart just for them also and that his gentleness would only grow larger just as they did.

Bob provided for his family by investing over 28 years of his working career as a crane operator with ConAgra-Peavy in Dubuque.  Always giving his best was a character trait Bob embraced fully and his performance at work was no exception.  He ran the crane as if it were an extension of his own body and keeping the river traffic moving was never a concern when Bob was at the helm.  When the workday had ended you could quite often find Bob enjoying a little serenity right out his own backdoor tending to his yard, enjoying the wildlife in the timber he had planted years earlier, or even watching his German Shepherds run free.  He appreciated the opportunity to never have to leave the property for his yearly morel hunts, but would gladly venture out and about if a little time fishing on the water became a possibility, or if hunting season had opened and some fresh morning air with family and friends was a clear and obvious decision to be made.

Bob’s sudden physical absence from our lives has left a collection of broken hearts behind which may never fully mend.  His love was true, his words were honest, his heart was kind and his mission was grand. To create the best life he could for those he adored and to continually be true to himself.  The Lord has decided to call home one of the good ones much to quickly for our minds to comprehend or understand, but we know and trust that Bob is surely at peace now from his earthly confines at that he can now thankfully enjoy perfect peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior until we meet again.  We love you, we miss you, but most importantly Bob, we thank you for simply being you!  God Speed Good Sir, God Speed!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his loving wife of 45 years,
Rita Takes, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 children,
Rita (special friend Michael) Schmitt, Dubuque, Iowa,
Larry “Tiger” (Tiffanie) Takes, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Robert “Bob” (Jenny) Takes, Sherrill, Iowa;

his 5 adored grandchildren,
Kolton Schmitt, Karter Schmitt, Brianna Takes, Nora Takes and Aiden McCombs;

his siblings,
Mark (Patty) Takes,
Helen McKeon,
Lois Zaph,
Shirley (Jim) Delancy,
Irene Ahlers,
Rita Takes,
Barb (Dan) Steffen,
and Martha (Dave) Timmer;

along with numerous family and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; his brother, Gene Takes; his sister, Mary Lehman; his father and mother-in-law, Robert and Jean Weidenbacher; and his brother-in-law, Tim Weidenbacher.

Bob’s family would like to thank the Sherrill Fire Department, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and in the Mercy E.R. for all of their compassion, support and kindness.  We cannot thank you all enough for your professional and personal generosities.

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

Robert A. Besler

Robert A. Besler, 75, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on, Saturday, June 15, 2019 at Mercy One in Dubuque, Iowa.
Friends and relatives of Robert may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 19, 2019, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 7 p.m.

A Mass of Christian burial will be for held Robert at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 20, 2019, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Concelebrating will be Rev. Dennis Quint. Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

Robert was born February 26, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Edwin and Armella (Recker) Besler. He received his education and graduated from St. Paul’s High School, in Worthington, Iowa. On New Year’s Eve, at the Worthington Hall Dance, he met the love of his life, Alice A. Boge. On September 17, 1966, they were united in marriage at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Farley, Iowa. Together, the couple farmed on the Besler Century Farm. Robert was a devoted farmer and was an avid fan of Oliver tractors. When he wasn’t farming he loved spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren; joking around and making memories. Robert also enjoyed quiet evenings with his wife, watching movies and sharing popcorn.

He was a member of St. Paul’s Parish in Worthington, Iowa. Robert was a veteran, having served in the 389th Engineering Division in the Army Reserves, serving from 1964-1970.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Alice A. Besler of Worthington, IA; six children, Kathryn (Wayne) Decker of Holy Cross, IA, Robert J. (Jodee) Besler of Hopkinton, IA, Janet (Jason) Hoeger of Manchester, IA, Ronald (Courtney) Besler of Dyersville, IA, Alan (Jill) Besler of Worthington, IA and Steven Besler of Hopkinton, IA; 11 grandchildren, Brian (Taylor) Decker, Becky Decker, Danielle and Jacob Besler, Madelyn and Ellie Hoeger, Hanah Besler, Kaitlyn, Natalie, Addison and Caleb Besler; one sister, Norma Jean Rave of Manchester, IA: one brother, Louis (Janice) Besler of Worthington, IA; sisters-in-law, Monica Besler of Worthington, IA, LouAnn Kozicki and Marilyn (Harry) Bortel both of Green Bay, WI; brothers-in-law, Roger (Mary) Boge and Charles Kluesner, both of Farley, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Karen Besler on January 10, 1969, two brothers, Donald Besler and Jerome Besler; one sister, Lila Mae (Joseph) Sperfslage; father and mother-in-law, Ralph and Jeanette Boge; brothers-in-law, John Rave and Mike Kozicki; one sister-in-law, Arlene Kluesner.

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

Philip M. Dahlem

Philip M. Dahlem, 78, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Friday, June 14, 2019 at his home in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Phil may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Monday, June 17, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2 p.m. Friends may call after 11 a.m. at the funeral home on Tuesday.

Services for Phil will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 18, 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 with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He was born on December 6, 1940, in Cascade, Iowa son of Paul and Lorraine (Wiegand) Dahlem. He received his education from St. Mary’s school in Cascade, IA and graduated from Campion High School in Prairie Du Chien, WI.

He went on to serve in the United States Marines during the Vietnam War. Phil was united in marriage on January 6, 1968 to Elizabeth D. Green at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. She preceded him in death on November 19, 2000.

Phil owned and operated the Cascade Feed Company for many years. After selling the feed company he worked for CRST as a truck driver for many years until his retirement. He then went to work for the Western Dubuque School District as a bus driver. Phil loved to read and was an avid model car collector.

He was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa. Phil was also a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He is survived by three children, Pam (Chuck) Nachtman of North Liberty, IA, Heather (Mike) Arnold of Waukee, IA and Phillip (Jill) Dahlem Jr. of Cascade, IA; 5 grandchildren, Brad and Brian Nachtman, Samantha Dahlem, Noah and Cole Arnold; one sister, Carol A. Neiers of Cascade, IA; sister-in-law, Carolyn Dahlem of Hiawatha, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers, Bruce and Mike Dahlem.

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

Patrick L. Conway

Patrick L. “Pat” Conway, age 85, of Dubuque, surrounded by his loving family, was called home peacefully at 2:40 pm on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at Luther Manor after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease.

To honor Patrick’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 am, Monday June 17, 2019 at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA, 52001. A visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m., Sunday, June 16, 2019 at Egelhof Siegert Casper Funeral Home 2659 John F Kennedy Road, Dubuque, IA, 52002, where a prayer service will begin at 2 p.m.

Patrick was born on June 20, 1933 in Dodgeville WI, son of Thaddeus and Viola (Urfer) Conway. He attended classes in a one room schoolhouse and graduated from Lone Rock High School.

He worked on the family farm for two years before he married the love of his life, Betty Schweitzer, on April 26, 1958 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Plain, WI.

He and his wife moved to Dubuque where he started work at John Deere Dubuque Works. Patrick retired after 34 years at John Deere. After retirement, Patrick and Betty moved to Florida for 23 years and worked at various jobs. Patrick and Betty were blessed with 61 years together and four beautiful children.

Patrick loved music and enjoyed going to dances. He also loved to do volunteer work and help anyone in need. Patrick was outgoing and friendly; he would strike up conversations with anyone he met. He would meet a stranger on the street, and they would be friends forever.

Patrick’s family always came first. We are deeply saddened at losing our loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother. We will cherish all the memories we have made together.

Those left to cherish Patrick’s memory are his loving wife Betty of Dubuque, his children Mary Conway of Rochester MN, Gregory (Regina) Conway of Dubuque, Michael (Michelle Williams) Conway of Houston TX, Patrick II (Mona) Conway of Palm Harbor FL, 6 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, his sister Catherine (Ronald) Marjama of Brookfield WI, sister-in-law Joy Conway of Spring Green WI, and 4 nieces and nephews.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents Thaddeus and Viola (Urfer) Conway, brother Hugh Conway, and sister and brother-in-law Margaret (Carl) Baier.

Patrick’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful nurses and staff at Luther Manor. In addition, a heartfelt thank you is extended to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara, Jeanette, Amy, Jenny, Suzanne, and Ryan. Special thanks to good friends Francis and Darlene McDonald, and Hospice volunteers Ann Gebhardt and Bev Rech.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque IA, Hospice of Dubuque, or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.

“…the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2nd Timothy 4:6-7

Lucille A. (Ernst) Keil

Lucille Anne (Ernst) Keil, 96 of Bellevue, passed away on, Thursday, June 13, 2019 at Mill Valley Care Center.
Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 20, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Thursday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Lucille was born February 26, 1923 in the Spruce Creek area of Bellevue, the daughter of Frank and Rose (Mueller) Ernst. She attended country school in Bellevue #1 and #7. Lucille married Ken Keil and one son was born of this union, Ken Keil, Jr. M.D. Ken Jr. passed in 1998. Lucille worked at Dr. Henske’s office, Fred Harvey Restaurant and Union Station in Chicago. She also worked in the Savanna Ordnance Depot until retiring. Lucille worked part-time in her retirement at the Young Museum in Bellevue to enjoy her interest in local history and genealogy.

Survivors include her 2 grandchildren, Kenny (Rowena) Keil III of California and Sara Waller of Georgia; 3 great-grandchildren; her daughter in-law, Kathy Keil of Georgia; and 2 nieces, Roxie (Steve) Hachmann and Cleta Deppe.

Lucille was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Dr. Kenny Keil, Jr.; siblings, Florence (Cletus) Deppe, Hilda ( Ray ) Bennett, and Clarence Ernst; and a niece, Sue Deppe.

A memorial fund has been established in Lucille’s memory.

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

Robert L. McCauley

Robert L. “Bob” McCauley, age 93, of Cuba City, Benton, and New Diggings, Wisconsin, joined his beloved Virginia in heaven on Thursday, June 13, 2019.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 17, 2019, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Pastor Bruce Bennett officiating. Burial will be in Shawnee Cemetery in New Diggings. Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Monday at the funeral home before the service.

Bob was born on November 7, 1925, in Huron, South Dakota, the son of Austin E. and Lucile A. (Abel) McCauley. He lived his young life in Waterloo, Iowa, before moving to New Diggings in 1930. Bob later graduated from New Diggings High School, joined the Navy and was aboard his ship by age 17. He served on the USS Rudderow (DE-224), the lead ship of her class of destroyer escorts. Bob was honorably discharged in October 1945 as a Rank 2nd class Petty Officer forward fire room, after he became completely deaf.

Bob returned home to New Diggings and worked as a Postmaster and general store operator (1945-1947), and then went on to work for the area mining companies (1947 – 1954). Finally, Bob joined Interstate Power and Light in Dubuque, Iowa, as a shop meterman. He worked there from 1954 until he retired in 1986, at the age of 62.

Bob met and later married Virginia Roberts on November 22, 1950, in Lancaster. They had six children and resided in New Diggings before moving to Benton. Bob was elected to the Benton School Board in 1962 and proudly served for 21 years before retiring from his seat in 1983.

Of course, Bob was a crazed Cubs fan, until they finally won the pennant. He also loved to travel and enjoyed beating everyone at cribbage. Bob was a fan of people who enjoyed conversation.

He will be dearly missed by his family, Michael (Anne) McCauley, John (Jo) McCauley, James McCauley, Sharan Miller, Gary (Patricia) McCauley, and Kay (Kevin Orth) Brink. Bob was blessed with 13 grandchildren, Marie (Dan) Kramer, Michael (Candi) McCauley, Thomas (Cassie Ossmann) McCauley, Ryan Miller, Allan (Lindsay) Miller, Staci (Jason) Plowman, Megan (Justin) Birch, Curtis (Samantha Kaiser) McCauley, Rebecca (Brandon Keen) McCauley, Dayna (Rick Jordan) McCauley, Ali (Nate) Moris, Steven (Ivory) Brink and Stephanie (Ryan) Kern, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Bob was proceeded in death by his wife of 64 years, Virginia; his parents, Lucille and Austin McCauley; and his siblings, William A. McCauley and Wenda Crews.

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

Margaret P. (Dietzel) Bies

Margaret P. (Dietzel) Bies, 92, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque surrounded by her family.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am, Monday, June 17, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A visitation will be from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Sunday, June 16, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Monday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Margaret was born February 27, 1927 in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the daughter of Leonard and Regina (Ames) Dietzel. She married Melvin Bies on November 10, 1948 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dickeyville, he passed on June 6, 1984.

Margaret enjoyed quilting, being on the farm, walking, playing cards, gardening, and going out to lunch. She always had cookies and brownies ready for her children and grandchildren when they stopped at the house.

Margaret was a hard worker and was very particular about her yard. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Roger (Barb) Bies, Larry (Deb) Bies, Jerome (Carolyn) Bies, and Janet (David) Casper; son in-law, Garry Dalsing; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; siblings, Edmund (Melinda) Dietzel, and Rosella Casper; a sister in-law, Marie Dietzel.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter, Donna Dalsing, siblings, Joseph (Rose Marie) Dietzel, Arnold Dietzel, Hildegard (Cyril) Monner; and a brother in-law, John Casper.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Margaret’s memory.

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

Janice M. Ehlers

Janice Mae Ehlers, 75, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, June 12, 2019, at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, June 18, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Monday, June 17, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be in the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Janice Mae Busch was born on December 25, 1943 in Davenport, Iowa, to Arnold H.D. and Loretta J. (Niemann) Busch. She was a graduate of Maquoketa High School then attended a business trade school where she received secretarial and administrative training. She married Harvey Joel Ehlers on June 11, 1966 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Terri and Tony.

Janice first worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and then became a housewife and sold Avon on the side. She then worked part-time for the Maquoketa Police Department as a dispatcher for ten years, and lastly for the Regional Transit Authority as the Head Start driver and dispatcher until retirement.

Janice was a social person and enjoyed talking on the phone, traveling with good friends to casinos, playing bingo and slot machines.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Terri (Reese) Bakeoven of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Tony (Theresa) Ehlers of Maquoketa, IA; 5 grandchildren, Anika Ehlers, Travis Smith, Jordan Ehlers, Kyle Ehlers and Devin Ehlers; and a sister, Nancy (Lonny) Gilmore of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Harvey on March 8, 2012.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Janice Mae Ehlers memorial fund has been established.

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

Lucille L. Stoffel Brimeyer

Lucille L. (Cummer) Stoffel Brimeyer, age 89, of Dubuque, IA passed away at Luther Manor on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.

Friends may call on Friday, June 14 from 3 to 7 PM at the Hoffman Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA. Funeral Mass will be offered at Holy Spirit Pastorate, Holy Ghost Church on Saturday June 15 at 10 AM. Fr. Dwayne Thoman will be officiating.

Lucille was born on September 22, 1929 to her parents, Louis and Barbara (Link) Cummer. Lucille married Glen Stoffel on April 29, 1947; he preceded her in death on December 18, 1994. She married Robert Brimeyer on June 16, 2001, who preceded her in death on February 10, 2013. Lucille liked to play cards, play bingo, and was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs.

Lucille leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, Dave (Kay) Stoffel of Sherrill, IA, Pat (Tom) Ellwanger, of Dubuque, IA, Joe Stoffel of Rickardsville, IA, Deb (Ken) Kipper, of Dubuque, IA, and Jodee (Jack) Theisen, of Holy Cross, IA, and her son-in-law, Gary Krause of Rickardsville, IA; 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; her brother, Bill (Marge) Cummer, of Dubuque, IA; sister, Evelyn Specht, of Sherrill, IA; brothers-in-law, Vic Leibfried, of Dubuque, IA, and Ralph (Evelyn) Brimeyer of Bettendorf, IA;. sisters-in-law, Marge Huber and Jane Brimeyer, both of Dubuque, IA. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Connie Krause  on March 14, 2018, her eight siblings, and numerous brothers and sisters-in law.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Sunset Park Place for all of their love and care during Lucille’s life.

Joann Sigrah

Joann Sigrah, 6 months, of Dubuque, Iowa died June 05, 2019. Friends may greet the family after 2 p.m. Friday, June 14, at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ, 1795 Jackson St., Dubuque. Services will be at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, June 15, at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd.

Ronald J. Busch

Ronald J. Busch, 75, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, June 12, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery with military honors accorded. Friends may call from 3-8 p.m. Friday at the church where the parish wake service will be at 2:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Saturday at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is serving the family.

Ron was born on October 11, 1943, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Clarence and Florence (Alt) Busch. He married Karen L. Udell on February 8, 1969, at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville.

Ron served in the US Navy during the Vietnam Conflict in the helicopter squadron. After serving in the Navy he worked as a bartender and really enjoyed the people he waited on. Ron began working as an apprentice at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works, later becoming an electrician in the experimental department. During this time he was a member of UAW Local 94 and served as a union steward.

Ron and Karen resided in Cuba City where they raised five daughters. He was active in St. Rose of Lima Parish, serving as CCD coordinator and assisting with a variety of parish activities including the annual Turkey Supper. Ron was a member of Knights of Columbus Council #765, serving as Grand Knight of the organization. He belonged to American Legion Henry Pinch Post #105 where he served in several offices and participated in parades and military honors ceremonies for fellow veterans. Ron was also a member of the Cuba City Volunteer Fire Department. A very devoted husband and father, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, fishing and working on cars.

Survivors include his wife, Karen; five daughters, Ronda (Mike) Rindy, Strum, WI, Robin Hoffman, Cuba City, WI, Rebecca (Jason) Runde, Hazel Green, WI, Renee (Kirk) Myers, Greenwood, WI, and Rachele Richard, Cuba City, WI; a sister, Betty Jean Troia, Madison, WI; two brothers, Ken (Rosalie) Busch, Orangeville, IL, and Michael (Katie) Busch, Plymouth, MN; seventeen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A special thank you to the staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Eldon C. Wilwert

Eldon C. “LD” Wilwert, 80 of North Buena Vista, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on June 11th, 2019 at Guttenberg Municipal Hospital.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday June 14th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A motorcycle procession will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15th, at the funeral home to Immaculate Conception Church, North Buena Vista where funeral mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will be at a later date in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque, IA.

Eldon was born on April 25, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Mathew and Alma (Theisen) Wilwert.

Eldie’s first love was motorcycles. He loved to fly through the streets of Dubuque before he was 16. He met the second love of his life when he was 17, Dorothy Martelle. They married on December 28, 1958.

They opened their first Harley-Davidson dealership out of a small garage in Key West, Iowa; later moving to Bluff and Dodge Street. They then moved the dealership to 19th & Jackson and stayed there until April 1989, when they moved to Nightengale Lane. They retired in 1998 and spent their winters in Leesburg, FL.

During Eldie’s life, he enjoyed racing Harley-Davidson motorcycles on the flat track circuit, and racing Arctic Cat snowmobiles, receiving championships for both, many times.

Eldie enjoyed fishing and would spend time over the years in Brainerd, MN and Bass Camp; along with snowmobiling in Eagle River/St Germaine, WI with friends and family. He also enjoyed his hunting trips with friends. He loved to gamble and play cards.

Eldon belonged to the Hawkeye Motorcycle Club, working the rider gate at the Dickeyville Hillclimb, the 660 Club, the Dubuque Men’s Association and the Dubuque Men’s Bowling Association.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Dorothy, of 60 years; sons Clay (Janelle), Todd (Jena), Dane (Lynette) and daughter Wendy. Grandchildren: Tristan (Shayne), Tiara (Ryan) Steffen, Chad (Carrie), Dustin (Emily), Jacob (Sydney Feller), Tyler and Addison. Step-Grandchildren: Brandon (Kristen) Dirksen and Jeremy (Kerry) Bickett. Great-Grandchildren: Anika, Colby, Silas, Dason, Corbyn and Paxton Wilwert, Remington and Lilian Steffen. Step-Great-Grandchildren: Mia and Max Dirksen. In-laws: Joe Sutter, Genevieve Dement, LaVern (Marge) Martelle, Jeanne (Don) Schonhoff, Chuck (Barb) Martelle and Susie Martelle, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Matt and Alma Wilwert, great-grandchildren: Ashton and Cooper Wilwert, in-laws: Cliff (Gilda) Martelle, Eileen Sutter, Ira Dement, Marlene (Frank) Miller, Raymond Martelle.

The family would like to thank all the health care professionals that cared for Eldie over the years; especially the Leesburg Regional Memorial Hospital in Florida, the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital, the Guttenberg Care Center and St. Croix Hospice.

Joan K. Williams

Joan K. “Hanni” Williams, 97, of the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Tuesday morning, June 11, 2019 at the care center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019 at the Nativity BVM Church in Menominee, with Fr. Dennis Cahill officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Friends may call from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Saturday at the church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Joan was born on July 17, 1921 in Duisburg, Germany, the daughter of Karl and Christine (Goetz) Eichel.  She was united in marriage to Paul H. Williams on August 2, 1947 at Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.  He preceded her in death on November 9, 2002.

Joan was the first W. W. # 2 bride in LaCrosse County, Wisconsin. She was formerly employed at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, for approximately 30 years, until her retirement. Joan loved gardening and working in her yard.

Surviving are three sons, Ronald Williams of Big Lake, Alaska, Karl “Chuck” (Joyce) Williams and John (Kathy) Williams, both of East Dubuque; 8-grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Ruth Williams of Sheboygan, WI, and sister-in-law Maria Williams of Massachusetts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul, a great grandson, Kyle, and four sisters.

Joan’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care given to our mother and grandmother.

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

Ross L. Noah

Ross L. Noah, age 69 of Cuba City, Wisconsin completed his earthly journey on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Ross’ life, a Celebration of Life will be held at Doolittle’s Pub and Eatery, 112 South Main Street, Cuba City, Wisconsin, 53807.  Family and friends of Ross’ may gather, visit and share memories together on Friday, June 14, 2019 after 5:00 p.m.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ross’ family.

Ross was born on March 29, 1950 in California, one of four sons to Roscoe and Lida Noah-Shriver. He grew up enjoying the California sun daily and savored every opportunity which came his way to embrace it fully.  Ross was a machinist by trade and spent over 28 years with the B. Pecks Corporation, before investing another 8 years with John Deere after moving to Wisconsin. Ross had a strong work ethic, but it was definitely when his free hours arrived in the day that Ross truly lived joyfully.  He had an incurable affinity for sports cars, classic rock-n-roll, skydiving and socializing in any situation he found himself, but we’d be remiss not to disclose that his greatest moments were likely when he was out on the water skiing with his friends.  He was the proud founding member of the Blue Balls Convention Ski Club of California and as the group grew with each passing year, so did Ross’ admiration for his creation.

Ross was surely a man who enjoyed a little fun in his days, but he also knew how to embrace a little downtime therapy in his woodshop as well.  His talent was immeasurable and so many of his unique projects will surely be blessing countless homes for years to come. Ross was a bright light in the world throughout his 69 years and his strength was quite evident as he was forced to battle cancer on three different fronts over the last ten years. This final battle sadly has taken all the Ross had left to give, but never once did he complain about the hand he was holding. A true gentleman till the end and all who knew and loved him now pray for peace and understanding as he is finally done facing his earthly struggles. Thank you for the abundance of memories you’ve left behind Ross which will definitely help to mend the many broken hearts around you and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ross include,

his loving daughter,
Danielle Sherman, Sacramento, California;

his granddaughter,
Brooke Beckham, Sacramento, California;

his 4 sisters-in-law,
Barbara Noah-Whitcher, Santa Rosa, California,
Linda Noah, Santa Rosa, California,
Della Noah, Janesville, California,
and Tina Noah, Fairplay, California;

his good friend and cousin,
Marshall (Dee) Peyton, Galena, Illinois;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Ross was preceded in death by his parents; and 3 brothers, Meldon Noah, Phillip Noah and Paul Noah.

Ross’ family would like to thank all of the doctors who have helped him to fight his cancers so courageously over the last decade. To the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their professional care and gentle support. And a very special thank you to all of Ross’ friends and neighbors who have cared for him just like a member of their own families. You have all made such a beautiful statement about humanity through your outpouring of time and please know that Ross, and we, appreciate absolutely everything you’ve done. May God bless you all for your kindnesses!

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