Obituaries Archive

Mary Ann Till

Mary Ann (Theisen) Till, 87, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at Mill Valley Care Center.

Private Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Monday, April 20, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Funeral Mass will be live streamed on St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook Page, Youtube Channel and Bellevue Cable TV.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.  A celebration off Mary Ann’s life will be held at a later date.

Mary Ann was born, July 25, 1932 in St. Donatus, the daughter of Erwin and Gertrude (Heinricy) Till.  She married Orlyn Till on May 11, 1954, he passed on May 16, 1984.  Mary Ann was a longtime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  Mary Ann enjoyed baking with her grandchildren; fourth of July gatherings, spending time with her family and friends. Her faith and devotion to God was never ending.

Survivors include her children, Mike (Carla) Till of Andrew, Carol (Michael) Dry of Owasso, OK and Cathy Till of Bellevue; 8 Grandchildren; 14 Great-grandchildren; siblings, her twin sister Marilyn (Cy) Ploessl of Bellevue, Richard “Dick” (Pat) Theisen of Dubuque, Paul (Bonnie) Theisen of St. Catherine, and Carolyn (Walter “Fritz”)) Wertzberger of Key West; a sister in-law, Joyce Till of Maquoketa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Orlyn; her parents; 1 sister in-law, Mary Theisen; 2 brothers in-law, Lorin Till and Brother Wayne Till, SVD.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to Hachmann Funeral Home c/o of Mary Ann Till Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

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

Marie E. Jogerst

Marie E. Jogerst, 95, of Dubuque, died Thursday, April 16, 2020, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.

Marie was born June 30, 1924, in Dubuque, the daughter of John R. and Susan A. Reiter Purcell. On August 7, 1954, she married Ernest F. Jogerst at Church of the Nativity. He died June 23, 2008.

Mrs. Jogerst was employed at Dubuque Fire and Marine Company and Mettel Realty and Investment Company for many years.

She was a member of Nativity Parish and the Visitation Alumnae Association where she served as treasurer for many years.

Survivors include one sister, Catherine “Kitty” O’Dell Novis of Great Falls, MT; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, John C. (Jack) Purcell, William R. (Bill) Purcell, James T. (Jim) Purcell, and Margaret Conner.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Bethany Home, 1005 Lincoln Avenue, Dubuque, IA 52001.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mrs. Jogerst’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Sister Clarenita Froehlich, BVM

Sister Clarenita Froehlich, BVM, 85, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Monday, April 13, 2020, at Marian Hall.

Funeral Rite of Committal will be Friday, April 17, 2020, in the Marian Hall Chapel. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. The Sharing of Memories will be held at a future date.

Sister Clarenita was elementary principal in Sioux City and Boone, Iowa, Omaha, Neb.; and Melrose, Minn. She also ministered as an elementary teacher in Boone and Des Moines, Iowa; Chicago; and Los Angeles and Montrose, Calif.

She was born July 18, 1934, in Chicago to Fred and Myrtle Quade Froehlich. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1952, from Holy Redeemer Parish, Montrose, Calif. She professed first vows on March 19, 1955, and final vows on July 16, 1960.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 67 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

Donald E. Burrows

Donald E. Burrows, 81, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, April 14, 2020, at his home.

Our dear husband, dad, grandpa and friend deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer. A private family funeral service will be held at Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery with Military Honors rendered by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Donald was born May 27, 1938, in Iowa City, the son of Albert Lee and Violet Mary Hartnett Burrows. On November 28, 1959, he married Joyce Ann Barker.

Don served in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1959. Don was a hard worker. He worked 40 plus years at John Deere Dubuque Works. Don was a proud union man. He served on the UAW Local 94 executive board as SGT of Arms for 18 years. Don was also on the pension committee for 22 years. He served on many other committees at Local 94. Don was a member of the American Legion Post 6 and 40 & 8 Voitures Local 632. Don was a Green Bay Packers fan.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce; a special granddaughter, Hailey, who helped take care of Don; three daughters, Cynthia (Marty) Latulippe of Swanton, VT, Suzette (Don) Pope of Dubuque, and Jolene (Paul) Peil of Spicer, MN; his only son, Donald “DJ” (Michelle) Burrows of Dubuque; 17 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and many friends. Don is also survived by his traveling and best friends, Alan and Kathy Ernzen.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and seven sisters

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jenni and Ryan, for all the care and support to the family.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.

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

Robert A. “Bob” Kaufman

Robert A. “Bob” Kaufman, age 70, of Lancaster, WI passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020, following a short illness.

Bob was born July 27, 1949, to Thomas and Inez (Blum) Kaufman. After graduating from Cassville High School Bob served in the United States Air Force. After serving in the military Bob moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania where he met and married Jan Barlow. While he lived in Pennsylvania, Bob worked for Bethlehem Steel for 29 years.

Bob was an avid New York Yankees, Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers fan.

Bob is survived by his fiancée Debra Kirschbaum; sisters: Patricia (Morris) Schauff, Donna Klauer, Susan Crandall, Kathy (Steve) Marx, Tina (Roger) Breuer; his brothers: Rod (Linda Kluesner) Kaufman, Kevin (Sue Neis) Kaufman. Bob is also survived by sisters-in-law: Maria (Fritz) Kaufman and Bonnie (Gary) Kaufman and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife Jan, parents, Tom and Inez, brothers: Fritz and Gary Kaufman.

Due to COVID-19, the family will not be holding a viewing or funeral at this time. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Cletus J. Hilby

Cletus Joseph Hilby, 90, of Galena, formerly of Menominee, passed peacefully Easter Sunday morning, April 12, 2020, at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community.

Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will not be having a public memorial at this time. A celebration of Clete’s life will be held at a later date and time to be announced.

A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Cletus was born November 23, 1929 in Menominee, IL, son of Leo and Sophie (Wubben) Hilby.  Cletus served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955 with most of his time being stationed at Ft. Meade, MD.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lois Budden, on October 6, 1954 at St. Joseph Church, Sinsinawa, WI.  Cletus and Lois enjoyed almost 65 years together.  After returning from the service Cletus and Lois farmed in the Menominee area.  Cletus was able to help on the family farm until into his 80’s.  He was especially proud that the family farm has been in the Hilby name for over 150 years.

One of the highlights of his life was to be able to participate in a Dubuque Honor Flight to Washington, DC in Sept. of 2013 with his daughter Nancy.  He enjoyed a good game of Euchre, loved to discuss anything to do with farming with his sons and sons-in-law, and especially loved spending time with his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a lifelong member of Nativity BVM Parish and a member of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

Cletus is survived by his six children, Diane (Glenn) Heller, Nancy (Paul) Fleege, Cathy (Mike) Brotzman, Bob (Polly) Hilby, Joyce (Randy) Wills and Tom (Judy) Hilby; 13 grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren with 2 babies due in the next few months, and 11 step-great-grandchildren with a baby due in September; one brother Kenneth Hilby, three sisters, Rosetta Arand, Rita Berning, and Lorraine Wills; brothers and sisters-in-law, Wayne Arand, Louis Berning, Eileen Hilby, Richard and Kay Budden, Arlene Budden, Ellen Timmerman,  Judy Budden-Tigges, and many nieces and nephews.

Cletus was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Lois; 2 grandsons, Jared Fleege and Nick Hilby; his siblings Merlin Hilby and Viola Scharpf; his brothers and sisters-in-law Bob Scharpf, LaVerne Wills, Janice Hilby, Jim and Roger Budden, Clair and Joan Kieler, and Dick Timmerman.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community for their wonderful care the last year of his life, and Lee Donar for his visits.

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

Paul H. Yarolem

Paul H. Yarolem, 56, of Savanna, Illinois, and formerly of Nashville, Iowa, passed away on April 11, 2020, from injuries received in an automobile accident on Illinois Route 84 north of Fulton, Illinois.

A private graveside service and burial celebrating Paul’s life will be held at a later date at Canton, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Paul Harvey Yarolem was born on January 18, 1964 in Iowa City, Iowa, the youngest of six children born to Rex and Marlene (Ringen) Yarolem. He was a 1983 graduate of Andrew High School and then spent four years in the Army National Guard.

Paul was a lifelong mechanic. Through the years he was employed with various automobile dealerships and also worked on cars as a small side business. In addition to his job as a mechanic, he worked as a handyman doing home restorations. He loved being with friends and family and restoring vehicles.

Those left to honor Paul’s memory include his children, Patrick Yarolem of Davis Junction, IL and Nicole Yarolem of Rockford, IL; his mother, Marlene Yarolem of Baldwin, IA; siblings, Steve Yarolem of Baldwin, IA, Rexann Roach of Ft. Madison, IA, Mike (Connie) Yarolem of Maquoketa, IA, Jody Yarolem of Oxford Junction, IA, and Tim (Thelma) Yarolem of Wyoming, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his father Rex Yarolem on January 13, 2001.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family. Please feel free to call or stop at the funeral home with notes of condolence or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Lawrence D. Flesch

Lawrence “Larry” Donald Flesch, age 68, of Blue Mounds formerly of Potosi, died peacefully on Good Friday, April 10, 2020, at his home with his loving wife by his side.

Larry was born on October 17, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Donald and Florence (Reynolds) Flesch.  He graduated from Cassville High School in 1969.  After high school, Larry worked at the Potosi Brewery and then John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works in Dubuque, retiring after 30 years.  He was an avid outdoorsman, spending many days hunting, camping and fishing.  Larry was passionate about his Roman Catholic Faith and belonged to St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Mount Horeb, the Knights of Columbus, and St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson.  On June 30, 2007, he was united in marriage to Margaret “Marge” Fried.  Larry was a kind person and had many friends.  He lived life to the fullest.  During his illness, he never complained.  Larry will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Marge; his children:  Amber Marie (William) Osmulski; Nicholas Jon (Rebecca) Flesch; Tiffany Ann (David) Michalkiewicz; step-children: Amy (Mark) Wipperfurth; Angie (Kurt) Phillips; grandchildren: Eli, Nolan, Theo, and Mack; step-grandchildren: Tara, Casey, Lexi, Austin, Deven, Cole; 1 step-great-grandchild, Emma; his siblings:  Sandy Drapeau; Steve (Kim) Flesch; Pam (Mike) Fritz; Karla (Randy) Lange; Kevin (Beth) Flesch; David (Joy) Flesch; Angie (Tom) Reinecke; Jim (Roxane) Flesch.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Father Richard Leffler officiating.  Burial will be in St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Potosi is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences:  www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Robert J. Mezera

Robert “Bob” J. Mezera, age 83 of Glen Haven, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 29, 1937 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, the son of Matthew and Rose (Morovits) Mezera.  Bob graduated from Prairie du Chien High school in 1955.  On August 23, 1958 he was united in marriage to Marcia G. Hedeman at St. John’s Catholic Church in Prairie du Chien. After their marriage, Bob and Marcia lived and worked for a short time in the Madison area. Bob later worked at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works in Dubuque, Iowa for 30 years.

Along with his career at John Deere, Bob was a full-time dairy farmer his entire life. Bob and Marcia first farmed in Bridgeport, and later purchased a farm in Glen Haven.  After his retirement in 1996, he continued to help his sons on their family farms. Bob was a devoted member of St. Mary Help of Christians Parish in Glen Haven. He was also a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for 40 years, actively helping with many service projects for Wisconsin Badger Camp and other local charities. He also served as the Council’s Financial Secretary and Grand Knight.

Bob loved to play cards, fish, sing karaoke, and play golf.  He loved gardening and took pride in his beautiful backyard.  Bob loved his family very much and enjoyed attending school and sporting activities of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Most of all Bob loved holidays and casual gatherings when his home was filled with family.

He is survived by his children:  Sue (Tom) Kuenster, Jeff (Julie) Mezera, Scott (Jenny Udelhofen) Mezera, Angie (Jeff) Redman, Krista (Lonnie) Hiley, and Nikki (Brad) Nemitz; 31 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; siblings: Lucille Casper, Elaine (Bill) Fischer, Mary (Pete) Neisius, and Mark (Mary Jane) Mezera; in laws:  Charlotte Mezera, Karla (Curt) Troester, Robyn (Lori) Hedeman, Steve (Mary) Hedeman, Michael Hedeman; and many nieces and nephews.

Bob is preceded in death by his loving wife, Marcia; parents, Matthew and Rose Mezera; his father and mother-in-law, Gerald and Jacquelyn Hedeman; twin granddaughters, Jill and Jennifer Mezera; great grandson, Bryce Heckendorf; sister, Joanne Mezera; brothers, Eugene (Geraldine), Richard, Gerald, and Paul (Bonnie) Mezera; brother-in-law, Tom Casper; and nephew, Johnathan Hedeman.

Private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at St. Mary Help of Christians Parish in Glen Haven, with Father John Meinholz officiating.  Burial will be in Gockel Cemetery, Glen Haven.  A Memorial Mass in Bob’s Memory followed by a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Bloomington is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences:  www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Robert B. Wessels

Robert “Bob” B. Wessels, 81, of Dyersville and formerly of Dubuque died April 10, 2020, at home after a yearlong battle with an aggressive form of bladder cancer.

Bob was born in Dyersville, IA to Edward and Frances Wessels.  After proudly serving in the Unites States Air Force, he went to work at John Deere Dubuque Works for 34 years.

He found the love of his life, Doris Osterhaus, on the dance floor and together they spent 57 faith-filled years together.  They started their life together in Dubuque where they raised their two children before returning to Dyersville.

Bob spent the majority of his retirement doing volunteer work at the Basilica and in the community, visiting his grandchildren, traveling and enjoying his family and friends.  He enjoyed golfing, coffee with friends, helping others, and watching the Cubs and Hawkeyes.  He was honored to be a member of the American Legion Post 137.

In the words of his grandchildren: “Grandpa has always been a sweet, caring, giving man.  He will do whatever he possibly can to help somebody, and expect nothing in return.  He would go to the ends of the Earth if it meant putting a smile on his grandchildren’s faces.  He was a devoted husband who loyally used the catch phrase “yes dear”.  He is one of the strongest men I know, and faced his battle with cancer like the hero he is.”

 Bob left a lasting impression on all those he met.  He exemplified faith, family and patriotism, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Doris; his son Patrick (Karen) of Wildwood, MO, his daughter Nancy (Wayne) Quade of Milbank, SD, and his eight grandchildren: Justin, LeShea, Mitchell, and Victoria “Tori” Quade, Maggie, Gracie, Libby and Kate Wessels; his brothers: LeRoy (Irene) and Lloyd (Eunice); his in-laws: Joan Lahr, Roger (Darlene) Osterhaus, Ruth (John) Ries, Marian (Bob) Philipp, Shirley (friend James Loucky) Osterhaus, Dave (Marilyn) Osterhaus, Rita (Paul) Wilhelm, Dan Osterhaus and Loras (Penny) Osterhaus, and many niece and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers in infancy, sister, Verna Watts; parents-in-law, Emily and Ambrose Osterhaus, and a brother-in-law, Jim Lahr.

Please leave online condolences for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Cards, letters and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home at 750 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.  Memorials are preferred to Beckman Catholic High School, St. Francis Xavier Basilica or the Dubuque County Right to Life.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2020, at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.  If you wish to attend, please stay in your vehicles as we must comply with all current precautions for the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration.

Louann M. (Frank) Mottet

Louann Mary (Frank) Mottet, 65, of Bellevue, passed away after a truly courageous battle with cancer surrounded by the love of her family at the University of Iowa Hospital on April 11, 2020.

A Private Funeral Mass will be conducted at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue at this time , Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A public memorial visitation and funeral mass will be planned for a later date and time. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Louann was born January 19, 1955, daughter of Aloysius “Pete” and Mildred (Kueter) Frank. She graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1973 and furthered her education at Clinton Community as ADN (1984), Clarke College as BSN (1995), and University of Phoenix as MSN (2006). She married Thomas J Mottet on June 29, 1973 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church. They were blessed with six sons – Scott, Timothy, Seth, John, Brent, & Nathan. She was a devout caregiver in every essence of the word. For decades Louann worked as an Oncology nurse at MercyOne in Dubuque, IA. Louann dedicated her life to her career and loved her colleagues and patients like they were family. She received “100 Iowa Great Nurses” Award in 2008 and retired on June 2, 2019.

Louann’s profession of love was being a Mother and a Grandmother. To know her was to love her. She was the matriarch of the family and they remember her for her undeniable selfless nature, compassion, and her ability to make everyone smile and feel loved. Her greatest joy in life were her sons, their families, and her sweet grandchildren. They were her pride and joy and she was their everything. No matter where or what she was doing with them, that time spent together was her favorite. Louann loved her life and lived each day to the absolute fullest. She deeply loved her siblings, in-laws, extended family, nieces & nephews, and her many wonderful friends. When Louann became the patient, she received the utmost care from her doctors, nurses, and additional staff at MercyOne in Dubuque, Medical Associates in Dubuque, and her team at the University of Iowa Hospital. For that, her family is eternally grateful as well as for their expertise and compassionate care. Her sentiments for others were “be kind, have faith, and make so many memories with your family and friends”.

Survivors include her adoring husband of 46 years, Tom; her children Scott (Janet) of Bellevue, Seth (Mallory) of Ames, John of Riverside, and Brent (Ali) of Bellevue; grandchildren Jessica Keasler, Tabitha & Gabriella Williamson, Matthew Herman, Layton & Delainy Mottet and granddaughter on the way in August; great-grandchildren Selena Harmon & Gabe Gibson; siblings Wayne Frank, Rich & Julaine Frank, and Donald & Nancy Frank; in-laws Marilyn Harris, Nancy Brandon, Don & Donna Mottet, Paul & Diane Mottet, and Rick & Linda Dickerson; and many special nieces and nephews.

Louann was preceded in death by her sons Timothy & Nathan Mottet, a grandson Kyler Mottet, her parents Aloyisus “Pete” and Mildred Frank, her father and mother-in-law Ed & Corrine Mottet, sister-in-law’s Ann Dickerson and Joan Frank, and brother-in-law Mark Mottet.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to Hachmann Funeral Home c/o of Louann Mottet Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA 52031.

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

Vivian L. Strom

Vivian L. (Jecklin) Strom, 67 of Pittsburgh, PA passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2020 surrounded by her loving family after a courageous three-year battle with cancer.

Vivian was born on October 27, 1952 to parents Donald L. Sr. and Mary C (Cavanaugh) Jecklin of Peosta.  She was a 1970 graduate of Western Dubuque High School and married her high school sweetheart, Stephen C. Strom on August 11, 1973.

Her loved ones will remember her as a selfless nurturer of all people and animals.

Her favorite gift to the world was to feed others.  She would immediately ask everyone that entered her house if they were hungry or needed something to eat.  The Priests at the neighborhood church were delivered hot meals from her kitchen daily for well over a decade.  She spent several years preparing meals for patients at the Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center.  Even the family dog and cat often received home cooked meals while freshly-popped popcorn was being marched out to the chicken coop.

Another of her gifts was sewing and quilting.  She made sure to constantly shower her loved ones with beautiful quilts, blankets or other handmade gems that were made just for them.  There are many magnificent crafts that she left behind for the world to remember her by.

Those left to honor Vivian’s memory include her husband Stephen; children; Brian (Molly Lindsey) Strom, of Pittsburgh, Stephanie (Shane) O’Neil, of Charlotte, NC and Robert Strom,  of Pittsburgh; siblings; Rita (Dave) Ruden, of Dubuque, Donald Jecklin Jr. (special friend Julie Van Zile), of Peosta, Sally (Dean) Heacock, of Durango, Rosie (Bob) Mueller, of Epworth, Lois (Dennis) Schmidt, of Dubuque, and Jane Jecklin, of Peosta; a special aunt, Sharon (Charles) Hermsen, of Dyersville who was like a sister; sister- in-laws; Deb (Sol Pobre) Frasher, of Wichita, Corine Watzka, of Wichita, Vicki (Dave) Fink, of Lake Delhi, Susie (Steve) Meyer, of Lake Delhi, Jackie (Becky Kraft) Stuart, of Wichita, Kim Strom, of Little Rock and brother-in-law Eric (Ida) Strom, of California and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews .

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her parents, Donald Sr. and Mary Jecklin, her father and mother-in-law Duane and Phyllis Strom and a brother-in-law Michael Strom.

Although there will not be a service, a fund has been established at Western Dubuque High School in the name of the Jecklin and Strom Families for anyone who would like to donate.

James F. Arthofer

James F. “Jim” Arthofer, age 84 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on April 10, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on November 26, 1935 in Iowa City, Iowa, one of 7 children to Peter and Charlotte (Finzel) Arthofer.  It didn’t take long for Jim to realize and appreciate the importance of family, friendship, an honest day’s work, and balance in all areas of life.  Jim would spend his 84 years always putting his family first.  Whether by adoring and protecting his wife of 55 years, Judie, providing for his family, nurturing his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, or simply spending a little quality time catching up with family members whenever possible; Jim never allowed his heart to place anything above his loved ones.

He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army before beginning his many years working at the Dubuque Packing Company.  He had dreams of owning his own business and eventually started Triple J Septic Service and continued to find great pride in watching his accomplishment continue on through the generations to follow.  Jim never feared hard work, but he also knew that it was not only good to find some downtime at the end of the day, but also quite necessary for a healthy and fulfilled life.  He continually looked forward to hunting season, but a day relaxing on the river with a fishing pole in hand would also do the trick.  An occasional trip to the casino to try his luck would also make the list, but a cold beer in the back yard was surely an acceptable response to the end of the day as well.  But, again, time with his family was Jim’s favorite way to pass the time.  His unwavering devotion, unsolicited advice and quick wit could always bring a smile to the face of anyone lucky enough to spend a little time visiting with Jim.

We will miss our dear husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother and friend more than any words could accurately depict, and our hearts absolutely break with the thought that our last conversation has sadly taken place now.  We are beyond grateful for the time that we’ve had and will pray for healing in our hearts, hope for peace in our minds and treasure every single memory Jim leaves behind.  Thank you, Jim, for being yourself with consistent measure through each day and may the arms of the Lord hold you safely and securely until we get to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his loving wife,
Judith K. “Judie” Arthofer, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 children,
Jimmy “Jim” (Illa) Arthofer,
Joey “Joe” (Tina) Arthofer,
and Julie (Brian) Gross, all of Dubuque, Iowa;

his 6 grandchildren,
Shelby (Adam) Slade, Colton Arthofer, Hailey Arthofer, Adam (Holly) Gross, Alex Gross and Aaron Gross;

his 3 great-grandchildren,
Jaxson Gross, Asher Gross and Jack Slade;

his 2 brothers,
Charles “Chuck” (Joyce) Arthofer,
and Mike (Mazie) Arthofer, both of Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Rosie (Ben) Greenwood, Betty (Joe) Donahue, Elsie (Dick) Burns, and Boniface “Bunny” Arthofer; and his sister-in-law, Joyce Arthofer.

Jim’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care of Jim, and his family.  This has been a very difficult time for all of us and your sincere gentleness and kind hearts have truly made a difference which we will never forget.

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

Raphael P. Reinert

Raphael P. Reinert, 79, of Sherrill, died Saturday, April 11, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Our dear dad and grandpa deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill with Rev. Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.

Ray was born July 23, 1940, in Dubuque, the son of Joseph and Ida Loewen Reinert. On September 1, 1962 he married Glenda M. Orcutt in Guttenberg. Ray and Glenda met at a dance and spent the next 55+ years dancing together before her passing on January 20,2018.

Ray worked at John Deere Dubuque Works prior to operating the family farm beginning in 1964. He was a dairy and crop farmer, selling O’s Gold Seed Corn for several years. He was named Outstanding Young Farmer from 1972-1974. Upon “retirement” in 1997, he began and operated Ray Reinert Trucking until 2017. Ray thoroughly enjoyed being around neighbors, fellow farmers and people in general. He always had a smile and a quick sense of humor. He served on the boards of the Sherrill Fire Department and the Dubuque County Farm Bureau.

Those left to cherish his memory include his four children; Lisa (Steve) Klein of Dubuque, Chris (Tina) Reinert of Dubuque, Renae (Dennis) Schueller of Durango, Juanita (Kevin) Soppe of Sherrill; 8 granddaughters, Shelly (Jarred), Nicole (Justin), Hannah (Cody), Ashley, Rachael, Shannon, Hailey, and Emily; 4 grandsons, Dan, Kyle (Stephanie), Matt (Julie), and Brett; two great grandsons, Parker and Henrick; three brothers; Bernard (Lori) Reinert of St. Louis, Frank (Bev) Reinert of Dubuque, Peter (Betty) Reinert of Hazel Green; two sisters; Catherine Orman of Santa Rosa, CA, Molly (Mike) Murray of Olney, IL;  two sister-in-laws; Delores Reinert of Dubuque, Karen (Gerald) Kennicker of Millville, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, John (Margie) Reinert, Mary (Paul) Noesen, Tony (Pauley) Reinert, Sister Paul Clara, Charles Reinert, Lucy (Ken) Donovan, Herman Reinert and Joe (Karel) Reinert.

Thanks dad, for the memories- playing tag in the barn, baseball in the back yard, endless loads of hay to unload and morning barn cleanings. You were always there for us and we will always “love you more.”

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.

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

John E. Ehlers

John E. Ehlers, 87, of  Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 9, 2020 at Sunnycrest Manor.

Private mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens with military honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

John was born June 5, 1932 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of John H. and Lorraine (Schmitt) Ehlers.

John married Joan (Hartman) Ehlers October 1958, they had 6 children: Jackie Cook – Dubuque, Julie (Dave) Wolf – Asbury, Janiece (Mark) Bolender – Cottage Grove, WI, Jeff (Terri) Ehlers – Dyersville, Jane (Dave) Hoeger – Montezuma, Joe (Jen) Ehlers – Epworth.

John has been a longtime resident in Dubuque County, he enjoyed farming in the Cascade, Sherrill and Rickardsville areas. He retired after many years as a Walnut Grove feed salesman. He was also co-owner of the Ritz Restaurant, Dyersville from 1981 – 1988.

John had a strong faith in God and Jesus as his savior. John enjoyed fishing, singing at family weddings and dances at the fairgrounds. His final years at Sunnycrest Manor he enjoyed singing to his nursing staff and his longtime friends at Sunnycrest Manor.

John is preceded in death by his parents John H. and Loraine Ehlers; his wife Joan Ehlers; brothers Donald and Lloyd; sisters Helen Ehlers and Mary Ann Fiedler; his grandson John L. Cook; and nephews Daniel Ehlers, David Ehlers and Jason Ehlers.

Along with his children, John is also survived by his brothers Dave, Terry, Chuck; his sisters Doris “Dorie” Cutter and Betty Schroder; twelve grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.