Obituaries Archive

Daniel D. Burns

Daniel D. “Burnsy” Burns, 64, of Lancaster, WI, passed away on January 17, 2020 at Orchard Manor in Lancaster, WI.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Dan was born on August 16, 1955, in Lancaster, WI the son of Clarence “Bud” and Laugine H. (Barr) Burns. He worked for the Grant County Highway Department for almost 30 years.

He enjoyed visiting Zippys Brass Rail Tavern on a daily basis. Every morning he enjoyed his coffee and an egg and cheese sandwich. Dan enjoyed the great outdoors and nature. He had a strong passion for hunting, fishing, camping and traveling. He has a passion for motorcycles and had a variety of guns. He enjoyed meeting new people and spending time with his daughter and grandkids.

Dan is survived by his daughter Deborah (Kurt Hale) Burns; six grandchildren, Taylor (Brandon Hall), Tyler, Adam, Ashley, Andrew and Tessa Hale. Siblings, Gary (Jo) Burns, Shirley (Jerry) Beshear, Peggy Burns Thompson. Many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Gerald, James and Michael Burns along with many other relatives.

Memorials and cards may be sent to Deb Burns-Hale, 8216 Boice Creek Road, Lancaster WI 53813.

Mary L. Zasada

Mary L. Zasada, 83, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died Friday, January 24, 2020, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster.  A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 26, 2020, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Rev. David Flanagan officiating.  Burial will be at a later date in Glen Oaks Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Friends may call from 1-2:45 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home before the service.

Mary was born on September 13, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of Frank and Louise (Dankert) Schilsky.  She worked as a certified nursing assistant.  Mary loved bingo, cooking and game shows.  She especially enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren.  Mary was always taking care of everybody.

Survivors include her sons, Randy (Karen) Zasada, Brantwood, WI, Bill (Michelle) Zasada, East Dubuque, IL, Tim (Julie) Zasada, Platteville, WI, and Dave (Missy) Zasada, of Darlington, WI; ten grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Frank, Bill and Richard Schilsky.

A Mary L. Zasada Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Carol L. Flynn

Carol L. Flynn, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 19, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 29^th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Derek Rosensteil officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Carol was born on February 13, 1941 in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Eldon and Mabel (Bemis) Essman.

On October 24, 1961, Carol married John Flynn in Dubuque, and they were blessed with 58 years of marriage. John passed away on December 15, 2019.

Carol Flynn was an exceptional woman who loved and cherished her family. Her sense of style showed both in her home and her attire.  Carol was an excellent cook and loved to entertain. Her strong work ethic was apparent with her contributions to Flynn Co Inc. and the organizations she volunteered for.  She enjoyed playing tennis, bridge, canasta and hosting many parties.  Over the years, she was involved with the Humane Society, Grand Opera House, United Way, YMCA, and the YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter.

She is survived by her children, Jeff (Tammy) Flynn, of Dubuque, Ann (Mike) Martin, of Litchfield, New Hampshire, Mike (Cindy) Flynn, of Dubuque, and Carrie (Jeremie) Livingston, of Winter Park, Colorado. Two grandchildren, Halle Flynn and Flynn Livingston; step granddaughter Crista (Will) Fischer and great granddaughter Annie Fischer.

Sisters-in-law Mary Meyer, of Arizona and Jane Rodell, of Illinois and numerous nieces and nephews.

Carol is preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, her brother Bud, and sisters Mae and Joan.

In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to the Carol Flynn Memorial Fund.

Carol’s family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home for all their wonderful care they gave to Carol.

Paul S. McKnight

Paul Stanley McKnight, 92, of Dubuque, Iowa, died peacefully January 22, 2020, at Luther Manor Hillcrest in Dubuque, Iowa, after a lengthy and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Visitation will be at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ in Dubuque, Iowa, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Funeral service, officiated by Pastor Karen Candee, will be at 10:30 a.m. followed with military honors.   A luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Galena, IL.

Paul was born December 17, 1927, in Burlington, IA, the son of Fred and Helen (Courtney) McKnight. When he was five years old, his family moved to Memphis, Missouri, where his father farmed.  Paul attended grade school in a one-room schoolhouse.  He was a 1946 graduate of Memphis High School.  After high school, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during World War II from 1946 until 1948.  He was a proud attendee of the 2010 Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., and received the Quilt of Valor in 2018.

After serving in the Army, Paul applied to John Deere Dubuque Works after reading an advertisement in the local newspaper.  Little did he know, he would spend the next 39 years working for John Deere which became his passion. He retired from John Deere Dubuque Works on October 1, 1987.

On May 3, 1980, he married Donna Marie Webster (Heim) at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ in Dubuque.  Throughout their marriage, Paul and Donna enjoyed traveling on numerous bus trips throughout the United States, a cruise to the Bahamas and a trip to Hawaii.

Paul enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking and shooting guns.  Since 2000, Paul looked forward to the annual farm pond fishing trip in Southeast Iowa with family members.  Because of a 23 ½” bass that Paul caught, an annual traveling “Lunker Award” was created, which Paul holds the record for as a five-time winner.

Paul was a member of Summit Congregational United Church of Christ in Dubuque, IA, John Deere Retirees Association and America Legion Post 6 Dubuque, Iowa.

Survivors include his wife, Donna; two step-sons, Wayne (Tina) Webster of Wilmington, IL, Gary (Angela Heidenreich) Webster of Stoughton, WI; one step-daughter, Marcia (Robert) Broshous of Dubuque; ten step-grandchildren, Lisa (Jason) Wiegel, Adam (Jayne) Webster, Cassie Gold, Cody (Danielle) Anderson, Whitney (Zachery) Basner,  Russ (Ashley) Webster, Nicole Webster, Ashley (Nate) Mealhow, Adrienne (Darrin) Kaisand and Alea Broshous and 21 step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his only sibling, a sister, Marjorie DeLair.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Manor Hillcrest and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care of Paul.

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

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

Richard C. Spangler

Richard C. “Dick” Spangler, 88, of Dubuque died Monday, January 20, 2020 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital.

Private funeral services will be held at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory. Private Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Dick was born November 29, 1931 in Dubuque, son of Charles and Freda (Karsch) Spangler. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High in 1949. He served in the US Army from 1952 to 1954.

On February 12, 1955, he married Mary “Elaine” Steinhoff at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church. She preceded him in death in 1982.

Dick was a long time employee of John Deere Dubuque works, retiring in 1987. He was an avid Cubs fan and was able to visit their training field in Mesa, AZ in 2000. For a non-traveler, that was a great accomplishment for all of us. He was excited to be able to see them win the 2016 World Series.

He is survived by seven children, Karen (David) Phillips of Goodyear, AZ, Pamela (T.J.) O’Toole of Bellevue, Rick Spangler of Sherrill, David (Lorie) Spangler of Isanti, MN, Mark (Rhonda) Spangler of Dubuque, Marla (Jack Anthony) Spangler of Sherrill and Gemma (Doug) Still of Bellevue; 12 grandchildren, Abby (Arno Adkins) Moriarty, Morgan (Devin) Scherer, Zachary, Ethan, Jesse and Jamie (Abby) Spangler, Patrick (Danielle) and Erik (Jordan) Lemieux, Dillon, Dalton and Brooke (Nathan Kroeger) Spangler, and Kannon Still; and nine great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Kathleen “Boots” Spangler Schwartz.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Richard Spangler Memorial Fund, and will be distributed to Dick’s favorite charities.

The family would like to thank Drs. Horchak, Hermann, Heiar and Compton, and well as Dr. Arnold and his staff and the incredible nurses and staff at Luther Manor, especially his special care giver Diane for their loving care.

Terry N. Toutsch

Terry Nicholas “Nick” Toutsch, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, January 20, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics under Hospice Care in Iowa City, Iowa.

Memorial Services are pending. Cremation has taken place and burial will be at a later date.

Terry Nicholas Toutsch was born on May 5, 1941 in Waterloo, Iowa, to Harvey Nicholas and Ruth (Hinkel) Toutsch. He was a 1959 graduate of Fayette High School and then attended Upper Iowa University graduating in August of 1963 with a bachelor’s degree. He married Nancyjane Fellows on January 26, 1963 in Fayette, Iowa. Two children were born to this marriage, Mandi Lea and Ansel Nicholas.

Nick had first worked on the family farm, and while in college he measured land for the United State Department of Agriculture – Farm Service Agency. Upon graduating from college he moved to California where he worked for the CalFire – Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Services in Trinidad, California. Returning to Iowa, he became a teacher working for the Delwood Community School District as an art teacher and a social studies instructor. He also worked for the Central of DeWitt Community School District in Welton, IA as an art teacher.

Nick was an avid model railroad enthusiast and was a member of several train organizations. He loved creating scratched built barns, railroad dioramas and scenes for model railroad layouts. Additionally, he enjoyed photography, most notably taking photographs of landscape, wildlife and railroads as well as teaching photography in the college for kids program. He also loved traveling the backroads throughout the United States and Canada.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Nancyjane Toutsch of Maquoketa, IA; children, Mandi Lea Toutsch of Bettendorf, IA, and Ansel Nicholas Toutsch of Maryland; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mark and Martha Fellows of Hammondsport, NY; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Robert Toutsch, and sisters Evelyn Toutsch and Joan Hackett.

In lieu of other expressions, memorials may be directed to the Jackson County Historical Society Train Depot Fund, Ohnward Fine Arts Center or Camp Courageous of Iowa.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family. Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Brenda S. Shireman

Brenda Sue Shireman, 63, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully at 10:40 a.m. Monday, January 20, 2020 at UW Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI, surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a Celebration of Life will follow.

Brenda was born on June 14, 1956 in Watseka, IL, the daughter of Homer and Elizabeth (Robertson) Kelnhofer. She was a graduate of Milford Township High School, class of 1974 and attended Danville Junior College. On August 27, 2003 she was united in marriage to Doug Shireman in Niagara Falls. With that union, her family grew to include 4 additional children.

She enjoyed working as a social worker with the Grant County Dept. of Social Services for more than 20 years where she touched many lives. She later worked at J & J Consignment in Dubuque, where she could showcase her creative side. Brenda loved decorating her home, spending time with family and friends, but most of all, spoiling her 2 grandchildren.

Surviving is her husband Doug; six children, Melia (Allen Plear) Evans of Cuba City, WI, Scott (Ashley) Schumacher of Edgerton, WI, Jamie (Larry) Autin, Las Vegas, NV, Lisa (Nina) Keefer of Huntington Beach, CA, Douglas (Florine) Shireman of Marietta, GA and Scott Flaucher of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Aydan and Kellan. Also surviving are two brothers, Jim (Teresa) Kelnhofer of Savoy, IL and Greg (Brenda) Kelnhofer of Hoopeston, IL and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions will be donated to a charity close to Brenda’s heart relating to organ donation.

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

Georgia P. Sakas

Georgia Peter Sakas peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 18.  She will be interred at the Guttenberg City Cemetery and the family will have a private remembrance later this year.

Georgia was born September 8, 1926 in Rockford, Illinois to Peter & Helen Retsinas. She was the fourth of six children in a close-knit Greek family.  She was a beautiful little girl who was gifted with a superb singing voice and began performing as a child.  Georgia was the solo opening act for the Three Stooges at the Orpheum Theater in Rockford and the Stooges were so impressed with young Georgia they used her in one of their skits.  After high school graduation she continued singing and starring in performances while attending Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music.   She married Basil Sakas in 1952. Basil and Georgia moved many times with Basil’s jobs before settling in Ft. Collins, Colorado in 1968.  They were blessed with two wonderful children, Lisa and Peter.

Georgia was an elementary music teacher, substitute teacher, choir director, home maker and volunteer.  She and her husband were 40+year members of the Ft. Collins Golf & Country Club.  Realizing early on “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” she learned to play golf and loved it, playing in the ladies leagues for many years.

Georgia was a devoted wife, mother and YiaYia (grandmother) and enjoyed caring for her family in many ways.  She was a great cook and was known for her pies and Greek pastries which she shared with friends and neighbors, especially at the holidays.  After Basil’s passing in 2006 she moved to Dubuque and lived with her son and daughter-in-law, Peter and Ginger Sakas.  While in Dubuque she made new friends, volunteered at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and spent time at Cozy Corner Adult Daycare where she made a best friend in Arlene. Lastly, she made Luther Manor her home where she enjoyed the music entertainment, activities and friendly staff.  She was fortunate to have a sweet roommate Diane, who became a special friend.

She will forever be remembered for her beautiful smile, humor and love of people. No one ever left her presence without a big warm hug.

Georgia is survived by her daughter Lisa Wolkin (Doug) of Parker, Colorado and her son Dr. Peter Sakas (Ginger) of Dubuque.  Her grandchildren, Sydnee Sakas and Elly Ahr (Artie) of Dubuque, Avery Hadzi (Jean), Michael Sakas, Ben Sakas and Zane Wolkin all of Colorado.  Two great grandsons Arthur and Wilder Ahr of Dubuque.  She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Nora Retsinas of Tucson, Arizona and Elsie Sigalos of Chicago, Illinois and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Basil, her parents and parents-in-law, her siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Luther Manor for their care and friendship to Georgia.  She loved you all and enjoyed her time with you.  The family would like to also thank Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and guidance.

Abbie I. Mormann

Abbie I. Mormann, 94, of Colesburg,  Iowa passed away Monday, January 20, 2020, at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 2-7 p.m., Friday, January 24, 2020, at St. Patrick’s Parish Center in Colesburg.  Visitation will continue from 9-10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish Center prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 25, 2020, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Colesburg, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Jim Goerend will officiate.

Abbie was born February 14, 1925, in Petersburg, Iowa, the daughter of Gregory and Alvina (Bockenstedt) Lammers.  She married Arthur Mormann on   June 10, 1947 at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg.

She enjoyed gardening, cards, visiting with anyone she met, and spending time with her family. She was blessed with great patience and the ability to socialize with anyone.

Survivors include her four children, Lawrence “Larry” (Joyce) Mormann, of Worthington, Wayne (Mary Sue) Mormann, of Colesburg, Shirley (Darrell) Lindauer, of New Vienna, Daniel (Sandy) Mormann, of Colesburg; 16 grandchildren, and 37 great grandchildren;  siblings: Irvin (Eloise) Lammers, of Guttenberg, Carol Ann (Lester) Simons, of Colesburg; a sister-in-law, Karen Lammers, of Anamosa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur on July 3, 1995; a son, Gary on May 6, 2017; a great granddaughter, Grace Mormann on December 16, 2007; siblings, Alice (Lavern) Knipper, Mildred (Vernon) Helle, Vanita (Ralph) Knipper, Gladys (Purl) Lake, Lavern Lammers, Donald (Peggy Digmann) Lammers; in-laws: LuVerne (Catherine) Mormann, Evelyn (Elmer) Geistkemper, Walter (Jean) Mormann, Agnes (Melvin) Mensen.

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

Victoria S. Fischer

Victoria S. “Vicki” Fischer, 85, of Bernard, Iowa passed away Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 24, 2020 at Holy Family Church, New Melleray with Rev. Rodney Allers and Deacon Loras Weber officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 23, 2020 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

Vicki was born on February 5, 1934, in Dubuque the daughter of Victor and Helen (Berwick) Walech. She married Albert Fischer on October 25, 1958 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque, and together they farmed in the Bernard area until retirement. She also worked at Ennoble Manor and was a member of the Holy Family Parish and the Rosary Society.

She loved children and especially loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She and her sister Betty were especially close especially in their later years. They fulfilled a lifelong dream when they took a trip together to visit their ancestral home in Luxembourg, Germany.

She is survived by her three daughters Lauri (Mike) Kinsella, of Bernard, Dianne (Dale) Weber, of Saint Donatus, and Karen (John) Jesenovec, of Farley; seven grandchildren, Marty (Rachel) Kinsella, Traci (Tim) Mosiman, Dan (Katie Hale) Kinsella, Dustin and Dylan Weber, Heather (Ryan) Earles, and Kaitlyn (Austin) Schwendinger; 8 great grandchildren with one on the way; sisters, Marie Hansel, Betty Murphy both of Dubuque; special niece Jan Kueter of Durango; one brother, Leo (Mary Jean) Walech, of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Albert on Feb. 22, 2014; twin brothers in infancy and two brothers-in-law Bob Hansel and Louis Murphy.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque especially Paul & Peggy, and to the nurses and staff at Grand Meadows Luther Manor, especially Connie, for all the loving care they gave to our mother and grandmother.

Eileen Beaves

Eileen (Ryan) Beaves, 89, of Dubuque died Sunday, January 19, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.  Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Church of the Resurrection.  Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Eileen was born February 10, 1930 in Dubuque, daughter of Joseph and Alice (Lynch) Ryan.  She was a graduate of Visitation Academy. She worked part time at May’s Drug Store in Dubuque.

On September 30, 1950 she married Theodore “Ted” Beaves at St. Joseph the Prairie Catholic Church.  He preceded her in death on January 22, 2015.

She was an active member of Resurrection Parish and a member of Catholic Daughters of America.

Eileen is survived by six children, Carol Beaves of West St. Paul, MN, Ted (Deb) Beaves of Dubuque, Ann (Tom) Hanson of Manchester, Mary Jo (Bill) Einwalter of Farley, Julie (Mike) Dunn of Dubuque and Michael (Lisa) Beaves of Ankeny; 16 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sister, Kay Steuck of Dubuque and in-laws, Geri, Gail and Andrea Ryan and Peter (Margaret) Beaves.

Eileen was also preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Paul, Ray and Bill Ryan, brother in law, Bob Steuck and in laws, Mary Ellen and Jim Kadra, Richard and Gerry Beaves, Charlotte and Bill Hanley, George and Dorothy Beaves and Jack and Veronica Murphy.

For further information, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Memorials may be made to the Eileen Beaves Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staffs at Stonehill Franciscan Services and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care.

Carol M. Defendi

Carol Marie Defendi, 76 of Dubuque Iowa was called home to the Lord on January 12, 2020 at home, surrounded by the loving embrace of her children.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2020 at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 24th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a rosary will be said at 6:45 p.m.

Carol was born on March 24, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Ronald and Helen (Keppler) Nennig. She graduated from Wahlert High School and attended NICC in Peosta for nursing. Carol drove bus for the Dubuque Community Schools and was a Registered Nurse at SunnyCrest Care Facility.

She married Cyril W. Oswald in June of 1964 and he preceded her in death. She later married Albert J “Duke” Defendi in September of 1991, and he preceded her in death.
Carol was an incredibly strong woman, her faith was never broken, her love for her family was unconditional and her home was her foundation. She loved her friends, gardening, being out in nature, cutting down the occasional tree and burning an always too big burn pile. She craved spending as much time with her kids and grandchildren as possible. She was a loyal friend, trustworthy spouse and an extremely loving and forgiving mother.
In her later years her passion for gardening took over. If you would stop by the house you would find her taking care of her plants and her numerous flower gardens, feeding her birds out back or spending 3 or more days cutting her grass. On Friday’s she helped clean the church with Rosie and made sure they always hit the “DQ” before they went home. She always talked about how fun it was and joked that she would eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch AND dinner if she could and never have to cook again. Eat ice cream mom, everyday, for breakfast, lunch AND dinner.

She is survived by her two children, Kristina (Jason) Clausen, of Waukee, Iowa, and Brian (Teri Collins) Oswald, of Des Moines, Iowa. Grandchildren, Madison and Zachary; her brother John (Teresa) Nennig, of Independence, Iowa; brother-in-law William Whitters along with many loving nieces, nephews.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Ruth Mary Whitters husband, Cyril W. Oswald; husband, Albert J “Duke” Defendi.

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

If it wasn’t for these incredible people and organizations, we would not have been able to fulfill mom’s wishes as she continued along her journey. They include, John & Teresa Nennig, Corrine and Bob Schatz, Rosie Nolan, Jennifer Klein, Hospice of Dubuque, and Home Instead.

Cletus Steger

Clete Steger, 82, of Balltown, died Sunday, January 19, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM Friday, January 24, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Clete will be 10:30 AM Saturday, January 25, 2020, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Balltown with Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery.

Clete was born November 4, 1937, on the family farm in Balltown, the son of Louis and Edwina Klein Steger. On September 5, 1959, he married Joanne Sahm in St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary surrounded by family.

Clete retired from John Deere Dubuque Works and was the Chief Executive Officer of the Steger Century Family Farm in Balltown, overseeing the operations until his final day. Due to his tireless work ethic, he and Joanne were proud to support and encourage their children to learn and succeed, and for this they are forever grateful. He loved to be outside, farm, tell stories, “run from the cops” in his red convertible, and most of all, spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed one last snowmobile ride on the day of his death, which always put a smile on his face.

Survivors include his wife, Joanne; one son, Steve (Kathy) Steger of Balltown; three daughters, Laura (Dan) Clemen of Holy Cross, IA, Julie (Dan) Slattery of Waunakee, WI, Amy (Tony) Duehr of Balltown; 10 grandchildren, Kelsey (Chad) Hill, Gina (Will) Osmanski, Nicole Clemen, Maria Steger, Kyle Steger, Zachary Steger, Samantha Slattery, Ellen Slattery, Olivia Duehr, Jack Duehr; two great-grandchildren, Haylee and Harper Hill, two brothers, Billy (Donna) Steger and Jerry (Connie) Steger both of Dubuque; one sister, Mary Ann (Allen) Lex of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, Arnold (Lillian) Steger.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque. They would also like to thank the Sherrill Fire and Rescue Department and Good Samaritan, Ron for stopping to help Joanne.

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

Catherine C. Oberfoell

Catherine C. “Katie” (Dressler) Oberfoell, age 80, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:34 a.m., on Sunday, January 19, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Katie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m. To honor Katie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, January 24, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Katie was born on March 11, 1939, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, daughter of Joseph and Mamie (Udelhoven) Dressler.

Katie was united in marriage to the love of her life, John Oberfoell, on October 22, 1960, in Lancaster, Wisconsin.  The two were blessed with 55 years and 7 children together before John was sadly called home ahead of Katie on April 10, 2016.  Katie would fully embrace her full time role as wife, mother and homemaker, but in later years she would also enter the workforce with Luther Manor.  In her free time Katie enjoyed attending Bingo with her friends, sitting quietly concentrating on her latest crossword puzzle book or working a jigsaw puzzle with her granddaughter, Alexis.  Family, however, always brought the greatest joy into her days, she loved spending time with John and the kids and was especially excited when the grandkids came along!  We are saddened at losing our wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister and friend, but take some comfort in knowing that she is now happily reunited with her beloved husband for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish Katie’s memory include

her 7 children,
Barbara (William) Kirshner, Killeen, TX,
Brian Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Cynthia Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Charles Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph (Denise) Oberfoell, Sherrill, IA,
John “Chico” (Robyn) Oberfoell Jr., Mineral Point, WI
and Sam Oberfoell, Dubuque, IA;

her 9 grandchildren,
William Kirshner, Jacob Kretz, Andrew (Natalie) Kirshner, Spencer Oberfoell, Kyra (Kenneth Biays) Jaeger, Stephanie Oberfoell, Logan Oberfoell, Jonah Oberfoell and Alexis Oberfoell;

her great-grandchildren,
Brooke Ann Kirshner and 1 more expected soon;

and her siblings,
Alma Morris, Blacksburg,VA,
Rose (Herbert) Koppen, Sherrill, IA,
Bernadette Thole, Fennimore, WI,
Claire (Calvin) Churchill, Houlka, MS,
Bernard (Theresa) Dressler, Lancaster, WI,
Clement Dressler, Lancaster, WI
and James Dressler, Lancaster, WI;

and a brother-in-law,
Floyd Churchill, Tennyson, WI.

Katie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John Oberfoell; her sisters,
Sr. Anna Marie, Virginia, Theresa, Agnes (Edward), Mary and Joan (David); and her sister-in-law, Jean Dressler.

Katie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital for the wonderful care they provided to Katie.  Also thanks to her sons, Charles and Sam, for helping Mom to remain in the home she loved so much.

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

Doris (Grosser) Trausch

Doris (Grosser) Trausch, 95, of Dubuque, passed away at home Friday, January 17, 2020, surrounded by those who loved her dearly.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, January 24, 2020, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush St., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. Friday, at the church.  Rev. David Schatz will officiate. Entombment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum, Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque.

Doris was born July 14, 1924 in Dubuque, twin daughter of Leona (Kimmick) and Harry Grosser. She was raised in her beloved hometown of Potosi, Wisconsin. She graduated Valedictorian from Potosi High school in 1942. After working one year in an ammunition plant in Milwaukee, Doris returned to Dubuque to attend the Mercy School of Nursing, graduating second in her class in 1946. She worked in the Mercy Hospital surgery department following graduation.

Doris married Arthur N. Trausch Jr. on October 18, 1947 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. They were married 63 years before Art’s death in 2010. After they married, Doris settled into her role as devoted wife and mother. Doris created a beautiful household, which included nine very active children. Doris’ family meant the world to her.

Doris had a deep appreciation for her Catholic faith. She was a faithful member of St. Columbkille Parish for over 72 years. She was a member of Theresians and St. Blanche’s Mother’s Club. She was a member of the Visiting Nursing Association and helped inaugurate the first VNA Charity Ball. She was also a charter member of the Mercy Hospital Service Club.

Doris had an inquisitive mind. She will be remembered for her amazing and precise memory, her gift of conversation, her proud Potosi heritage, her spirited Euchre playing, her master stitchery and organizational skills, her gentle and kind heart, and her unconditional love for her family.

Doris is survived by her nine children and their families: Nick (Sara) Trausch, of Lake Bluff, IL, and their children, George (Kristy), Peter (Liz), Henry and Brian; Rick (Lori) Trausch, of Dubuque, and their children, Shanna and Samantha (David); Jamie (Anne) Trausch, of East Dubuque, IL and their children Luke, Kelly, and Ben (Allison);  Kris (Tim) Gallagher, of Dubuque, and their children, Tim Jr., Kelly, and Ryan; Tim Trausch, of Rochester, NY, and his children, Libby and Drew; Susie (Kevin) Green, of Paradise Valley, AZ, and their children, Conor (Quanah), Courtney (Martin), and Caitlin (Brian); Tricia (Don) Boegel, of Plymouth, MN, and their children, Brittany, Jacob (Ashley), Taylor (Maura) and David; Megan (Scott) Morris, of Mequon, WI, and their children, Matt, Sam, Rachel and Adam; and Amy (Tim) Smith, of Dubuque, and their children, Olivia (Boyd), Colin, and Charlie; and five great-grandchildren, Drake, Lucy, Leo, Miles, and Sawyer.

In addition to her husband, Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her twin sister Dorothy Kortes; and another sister Kathleen Puls.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Doris’ appreciation of church and service, memorials may be given to St. Columbkille Catholic Church and Mercy Hospital Service Club.

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