Obituaries Archive

Carol A. Scheffert

Carol A. Scheffert, age 74 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on February 5, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Carol’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Carol’s family.

Carol was born in Dubuque on August 30, 1945, a daughter to William L. and Mildred L. (Laufenberg) Lightfoot.  She spent her formative years learning the values of family, friends and fellowship.  She eventually became a CNA and spent the majority of her working years with Luther Manor.  Carol understood quite well though that work was only one part of her life and there had to be some balance between that, her family and her free-time.  She would spend many hours every week studying her bible and spreading the Good News to whoever would listen.  Carol was also a regular and quite familiar with the Wild West Wednesday evening country line dancing at the Dubuque Fairgrounds to help lighten the load in the middle of the week.  But, those who knew Carol best will unanimously attest that sitting with her husband, Gary, on the porch swing watching the sunset was truly where she found peace and real contentment in her days.  Carol was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many and the legacy of love she now leaves behind will surely help mend the broken hearts she leaves behind.  We will miss her dearly, love her deeply and think of her often as we face the days ahead while waiting patiently to see her again.  God speed Carol and may the peace you’ve searched for so diligently finally be yours.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Carol include,

her children,
Roberta “Bobbi Jo’ (Monte Bruggeman) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Bev (Tim Theisen) Burdick, Decorah, Iowa,
Jerry (Heidi) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Kathy Feuss, Dubuque, Iowa;

her step-children,
Cheri Miller, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Gary Scheffert, Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandchildren;

her great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Barb Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Pearl (Dave) Duve, Dubuque, Iowa,
Pat Ryan, Wausau, Wisconsin,
Mike (Deb) Lightfoot, Dubuque, Iowa,
Michelle (Tim) Burke, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Myrna (David Harry) Howell, Dubuque, Iowa;

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

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Gary; her parents; her son, Kevin Lightfoot; her grandson, Landon Lightfoot; her brother, Dale Lightfoot; her brothers-in-law, Terry Kelly and Jim Ryan; and her step-daughter, Sandra Donath.

Carol’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care and support of Carol, and her family.

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

Melvin C. Lenz

Melvin Carl Lenz, age 91, passed away peacefully of natural causes Monday Feb 3, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 7th, 2020 at St Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Private family burial will be at a later date at St Theresa Cemetery, rural La Motte. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 6, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where a vigil will be held at 2:45 p.m.

Melvin was born May 12, 1928, son of Carl and Cleta (Wieseler) Lenz. He grew up on the family farm, oldest of six children. He graduated 8th grade from a small one room country schoolhouse near his home. After graduation, he bought his first herd of dairy cattle and made a lifetime career as a farmer.

On September 27, 1949 he married Anita Arensdorf of LaMotte, IA. Together they farmed and raised five children on the Lenz Century Farm south of Dubuque until Anita’s passing in 1988. He continued to farm with his son David until retirement took him to LaMotte where he married Evelyn (Herrig) Mueller on May 19, 1990 at Holy Rosary Church. He was proud that his family grew to ten children.

In addition to farming full time, he worked as head maintenance man at Morrison Brothers, Dubuque. He was a township trustee in Jackson County. He was a faithful member at St Theresa Church and enjoyed maintaining the parish grounds and cemetery. He was proud to be a weekly usher beginning as a teenager and continuing his whole life. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

In his younger years, Melvin enjoyed hunting and fishing. As his family grew, creek fishing picnics became a favorite Sunday pastime. He collected antiques and loved to share stories about them. He restored and explained every function of his 200+ piece antique wrench collection. He never turned down a friendly, but competitive game of Euchre. Especially while listening to Johnny Cash and drinking a Star Beer, warm or cold. He was a jokester and tried to teach many his famous pencil tricks. He traveled with and visited family in many states.

In his later years, as a resident of Stonehill Care Center, he played many games of Euchre, discovered Bingo and never missed a game. He liked teasing the Stonehill staff and shared his knowledge of farming with everyone there. He truly appreciated each and every one of them.

Mel is survived by his wife, Evelyn; his children, Dale Lenz, Dee (Terry) Schilling, Denny (friend Jennifer Turner) Lenz, Dianne (Jack) Brehm and David (Cindy) Lenz, Elaine Neubert, Ron (Denise) Mueller, Roger (Julie) Mueller, John (Mary Jane) Mueller and Mark (Julie) Mueller and many grandchildren and great grandchildren; two sisters Ardella (Marvie) Weber and Harriet Smith, one brother Gary (Sherrie Brown) Lenz, in-laws Jerry (Marion Welter) Arensdorf and Patricia Arensdorf.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Anita, his parents, siblings Geraldine Helsel and Willard Lenz.

In lieu of flowers, a Melvin Lenz Memorial has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care and kindness they gave Mel.

Elizabeth A. Krapfl

Elizabeth “Betty” A. Krapfl, 82, of Dyersville and formerly of Earlville passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2020, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Sunday, February 9, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Monday prior to funeral services. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, Feb, 10, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Betty was born to Clem and Ella Naber on their family farm outside Dyersville. She joined her 2 brothers and 5 sisters and worked around the house and farm. She enjoyed going to school and graduated in 8th grade from St. Francis Xavier. Betty was 15 when she met the love of her life at the KC Hall in Dyersville. Her heart started to follow the beat of Gene Krapfl’s heart that evening. They both loved to go to dances and were engaged shortly before Gene left for the Army in 1955. They were married on September 24, 1957, at the Basilica and began farming in Masonville before eventually settling in Earlville.

Betty had a lifelong love of music and played her guitar since the age of 13. She enjoyed singing with her band for over a decade and was known for her beautiful yodeling. Betty began caring for children in her home for the next 24 years. She shared her love of music with the children who excitedly sang along with her many days. Family gatherings were always noisy and joyous events filled with laughter and card playing.

Betty suffered a significant stroke in 2007. This was a terrible blow but she had a remarkable recovery with damage limited to her right hand and right leg. This unfortunately stole her ability to play guitar and reduced her mobility.

She is survived by her husband, Gene, and she was a proud and patient mother to her 8 children: Kay (Gary) Demmer of Dyersville, Tom (Donna) Krapfl and Pat (Kathy) Krapfl, both of Delhi, Al (special friend Melissa Dutra) Krapfl, Janet (Mike) Orcutt, Julie (Shannon) Lahr, and Jim (Deanna) Krapfl, all of Earlville, and Mary (Dr. Brad) Gamble of Dallas, TX. She loved each of her 28 grandchildren as well as her 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Frank (Joyce) Naber of Dyersville.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, several siblings and in-laws, her daughter-in-law Kim Krapfl, her grandsons Alex and Andrew Krapfl.

Betty will be greatly missed but fondly remembered for her gentle spirit, quick laugh and fervent love of pretty clothes and cute shoes. Rest well, Betty, and dance in heaven with all those who preceded you.

Gene and the family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bules, the nursing staff at Mercy One and Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent care while Betty was struggling. An enormous amount of gratitude also goes to the Mercy One Senior Care staff and the Ellen Kennedy Center staff for their loving care of Betty over the last several years. We would also like to thank Fr. Quint for anointing Betty and offering prayers to our family.

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

Carol C. (Bierman) Michels

Carol C. (Bierman) Michels, 85, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, February 04, 2020 at Mill Valley Care Center. Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Friday, February 7, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, family will greet friends 9:00 am until service time on Friday at the church. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Carol was born March 13, 1934 in Grant County, Wisconsin, the daughter of William and Cecilia (Breuer) Bierman. She married Royal A. Michels on October 23, 1956 in Cassville, Wisconsin. Carol helped on the farm with her husband for many years, also worked at Diamonds in Dubuque, and Ensign in Bellevue. She enjoyed being outside, playing BINGO, fishing, bowling, playing cards, and cooking the best fried chicken. Carol and Royal enjoyed dancing, being with neighbors, and watching the Chicago Cubs.

Survivors include her children, Barb (Jeff) Michels, of Bellevue, Dale (Lori) Michels, of De Witt, and Allan (Sara Koehn) Michels, of Bellevue; a daughter in-law, Darla Michels; eight grandchildren, Brad, Abby, Faith, Tiffany, Nathan, Samantha, Tyler, and Austin; 6 great-grandchildren; siblings, Beverly (Thomas) Pitz, Sharon (Thomas) Richter, Clarence (Carolyn) Bierman, Patricia Koppes, and Karen Sommers.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, David; a sister, Marge (Richard) Blitgen; and brothers in-law, Jim Sommers and Ronald Koppes.

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

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

George K. Shalabi

George Kamel Shalabi passed away January 31, 2020 from complications due to congestive heart failure. He was born at home on April 9, 1939 in Haifa, Palestine to Nahala and Kamel Shalabi. He was the oldest of four boys — a position of responsibility, respect and honor in Arab families. This helped form his personality and guided his interactions with people throughout his entire life.

In 1948, his family lived as refugees in one room of Carmelite monastery, on Mount Carmel, high above the city of Haifa. He was 9 years old during this period and remembers the time fondly because he didn’t have to go to school.

Much of George’s early education was at a school run by French monks, where all subjects were taught in French. He was fluent in several languages — Arabic, French, English and Hebrew.

Because of his fluent French, after high school, he landed a job working at the French Embassy in Haifa. He worked here for several years before meeting Bill Cabecca — a U.S. Naval attaché who would frequently visit the embassy.

George and Bill befriended each other and it gave George the opportunity to practice  his English skills during their visits.

It was at Bill’s insistence that George applied for college scholarships in the United States and he eventually received an offer to attend the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse.

He left Haifa in June of 1962 on a ship with a suitcase of clothes and the equivalent of a couple of hundred dollars in his pocket.

At the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, he began working on his chemistry degree. And at a party in 1964, he met Peggy Goltz, whom he would eventually marry on July 1, 1967.

After they graduated, they both found jobs in the Sauk-Prairie, Wisconsin area and moved there to settle and start a family.

George found work at the Badger Army Ammunition plant in 1967 and worked there in various environmental and chemical engineering capacities until he retired in 2000.

With a wide variety of interests and passions, George had a very active retirement. At the age of 65 he took up cycling and completed several long-distance bike tours. He also began to develop his skills as a woodcarver and was fond of carving walking sticks. He was part of an active hiking group and hiked all over Sauk County. He loved drinking tea, reading the newspaper and completing the crossword puzzle each day at his favorite cafe — the Blue Spoon in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin.

He was also on the board of the St. Vincent de Paul Sauk Prairie and spent many hours volunteering at the store in Sauk City.  And he was a member of the Sauk Prairie Rotary Club for many years.

But his real life’s work was working for peace in the Middle East through his many talks (and Facebook posts) — both formal and informal — that he gave on the subject. While he lived most of his life in the United States, his true identity was that of a proud Palestinian.

For many years, George was on the board of the Pilgrims of Ibillin, the fundraising organization of the Mar Elias School in the Galilee region of Israel. The mission of the school is to create an environment where children of all religions in the area — Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Druze — went to school together from a very young age. The idea being, that you could not blindly dislike someone that you grew up with. This mission resonated closely with George’s view on the world — he just wanted everyone to get along. “We are all more alike than we are different,” he often said.

Through his work with the Pilgrims of Ibillin, he led several Holy Land tours, sharing his passion and knowledge of the area with many dozens of people through the years.

George was also very proud of his daughters Samia and Leslie and had a deep devotion to Peggy, his wife of 52 years.

George is survived by his wife Peggy, his daughters Leslie Shalabi (Mike Muench) of Dubuque, Iowa and Samia Shalabi (Jack Williams) of Madison, Wisconsin; his brothers Michael Shalabi (Jeanette), of Haifa, Israel; and Souhael Shalabi of Kingman, Arizona as well as many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Fareed.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, February 22 at The Freethinkers Hall in Sauk City, Wis. (307 Polk Street) from 2 to 6 pm. Friends are encouraged to share memories during a storytelling session (George LOVED telling stories) from 4 to 5 pm.

The family would like to sincerely thank his cardiologist Dr. Eltibi, and especially the nurses and nursing assistants on the cardiovascular unit of Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to the Pilgrims of Ibillin, ℅ Jitasa, 1750 W. Front Street, Boise, ID 83702 or Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson Street, Dubuque, IA 52001.

Online condolences for George’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Sara J. Wild

Sara J. Wild, age 48 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on February 2, 2020 at UnityPoint-Finley Hospital in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sara’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at 11:00 a.m., with a brief memorial service starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., at the Bridge Christian Community Church, 395 West 9th Street, with Pastor Travis Roehm officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sara’s family.

Sara was born and raised in Dubuque and was a proud graduate of Hempstead High School, Class of ’90.  She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart on August 19, 1995 and the loving couple was soon blessed with 2 daughters.  Sara was surely in her happy place in life now; loving wife and mother and only having to wait patiently to add adoring Nana to the list.  She spent almost 10 years of her working career as the manager of the Maid-Rite in Cascade before health issues began to impact her daily abilities.  But, being the strong-willed and determined woman that she was, she would continue to fight each and every day to never allow the darkness to overtake the light.  She enjoyed cooking for her family and trying on a new pair of shoes to add to her collection whenever possible, but an afternoon of NASCAR, or an evening with a good book and a glass of wine in her hand would also do the trick.  Sara never wanted anyone to make a fuss about her, and even when she had finally received her kidney transplant, she quietly kept her blessing from above to herself.  She has sadly attended her last Go Red for Women event and the wonderful memories she leaves behind will have to replace her physical presence in the lives of all who knew and loved her moving forward.  Our hearts ache with an unbearable pain today, but we know and trust that Sara is home now with her Lord and Savior and for that we are eternally grateful.  Thank you, Sara, for always being yourself with absolutely no compromises along the way and may your freedom from your earthly struggles bring both you and us peace until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sara include,

her loving husband of 24 years,
Mike Wild, Dubuque, Iowa;

her 2 beautiful daughters,
Samantha (Tyler Torrey) Wild, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Allison (Derek Kuntz) Wild, Dubuque, Iowa;

her deeply adored grandson,
Brayden Torrey;

her mother,
Marilyn Bergfeld, Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandmother,
Vi Wild, Dubuque, Iowa;

her siblings,
Thomas (Linda) Bergfeld, Otter Creek, Iowa,
Cathy Arensdorff, Dubuque, Iowa,
Mary Ann (Robert) DeMeyer, Alexandria, Virginia,
David (Delphine) Bergfeld, Epworth, Iowa,
Laurie (James) Decker, Bellevue, Iowa,
Lisa Frederick, Dubuque, Iowa,
Martin (Angie) Bergfeld, Bernard, Iowa,
Joan (Bill Brus) Bergfeld, Cascade, Iowa,
and Amy (Nick Koos) Bergfeld, Mommouth, Iowa;

her father-in-law,
Gary Wild, Dubuque, Iowa;

her sister-in-law,
Melisa Wild, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Sara was preceded in death by her father, Ralph Bergfeld; her mother-in-law, Kathy Wild; and her grandfather, Jerry Wild.

In lieu of flowers, a Sara J. Wild memorial fund has been established.

Sara’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Iowa City Transplant Team, and Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care of Sara, and her family.

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

William C. Ousley

William “Bill” C. Ousley, 74, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Monday, February 3, 2020, at home from a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Miller Funeral Home, in East Dubuque.

William was born on November 15, 1945 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Francis “Ozzy” R. and Dorothy E. (Fern) Ousley.  He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in the Class of 1963.  He then went on to pursue his love of music, which started with his Dad at a very young age.  He played drums with several local bands before joining the Clarence Zahina Band, the Leo Greco Band, and later with the Country Kings.  He eventually retired from the music business after 50 plus years.  Bill was also employed with John Deere and a member of the U.A.W. Local 94 for 26 years.  He retired in October 2006.  Bill was an avid Wisconsin Badger and Green Bay Packer fan.  He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bill married Karen Turnmeyer and three sons were born to this marriage.  Bill and Karen parted ways and Bill would later marry Elaine Murphy and she preceded him in death in 1999.  Bill later married Doris P. Piper on February 2, 2010 in Galena, IL.  Bill is survived by a sister, Betty Ney, Sun Prairie, WI; three sons, William, Jr., Robert, and Brett (Melissa) Ousley, all of Rockford, IL; stepchildren, nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Eugene Ousley, a sister, Lois McDonald, and two brothers-in-law, Jack Ney and John McDonald.

Bill’s family would like to thank Dr. Mark Hermann, Tony Heiar, ARNP, and the nurses and staff of Dubuque Internal Medicine Oncology and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they provided to Bill and the family.

In lieu of plants & flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque Iowa.

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

Kern R. McDermott

Kern R. McDermott, 43, of Placid, IA passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, after he battled an Illness for many years, on Monday, February 3, 2020 at Select Specialty Hospital in Davenport, Iowa.

Visitation for Kern will be held from 2:30 to 8 p.m., Friday, February 7, 2020 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayers service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Kern will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, February 8, 2020 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Placid, Iowa.

Kern was born July 9, 1976 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Kenneth and Doris (Wels) McDermott. He was a 1994 graduate of Western Dubuque High school. Kern played High School Baseball and Prairie League. He was inducted in to the Placid Wall of Honor in 2019.

He is survived by his parents, Ken and Doris McDermott of Bernard, IA; one brother, Eric McDermott (and special friend, Kristi Roepke) of Bernard, IA; one sister, Michelle McDermott (and special friend, Kevin Hoeger) of New Vienna, IA; one niece, Nicole (Shane) Havenstrite of West Union, IA; one nephew, Brandon Meyer of New Vienna, IA; and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Kern and Eileen (Collins) McDermott, Ray and Dorothy (Heacock) Wels.

The family of Kern would like to thank all the Doctors, Nurses and aides that have taken care of him through the years as well as John and Darlene Clemen who have always been there for Kern.

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

Rose Verdene Baguss

Rose (Dee) Verdene Baguss, 68, of Maquoketa, Ia. Passed away at her home Friday, Jan. 31st, 2020. At her request she was cremated and no services will be held at this time.

Rose was born  in Iowa City, Iowa on March 8th, 1951. 

She was preceded in death by her mother Leora; father Leo; sister Colleen; brother Fred.

Those left to honor her memory are her husband Gerald Baguss; daughter Laurie Burco and husband Chris of Arlington, IA; daughter Vicky Foster and husband Steven of Bentonville, AR; brother Harold Finzel of Tennessee; brother Leo Finzel of Texas; brother John Finzel of Dubuque IA; sister Lorri Jackson and husband John of Dubuque, IA; 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Matthew G. Hurm

Matthew Gerard Hurm, 63, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Monday, February 3, 2020, at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 7, 2020, at Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista St., Dubuque. Msgr. James Miller will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Friends may greet the family from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2020 at Church of the Nativity.

Matthew was born April 24, 1956 in Dubuque, the son of Thomas and Mary (McCarten) Hurm. On April 27, 1974 he married Diane Ferring. She preceded him in death on January 1, 2017. Matthew was employed at Kretschmer Tredway for over 30 years, and for the past 20 plus years at the Q Casino.

Matthew’s faith was very important to him, and he was a longtime member of Church of the Nativity and the Rosary Society, as well as Power of Prayer. He was devoted to the The Most Blessed Virgin Mary, and prayed with his children often. Matthew and Diane were blessed with 43 years of marriage, and during that time created a wonderful family of eight children who now call themselves #hurmsforlife.

Matt was an avid gamer, he loved his orange Crush and the recliner in his favorite spot to watch his favorite TV shows Andy Griffith and Dick Van Dyke. He also made sure he looked dapper for church but as soon as he got home he was in his PJ’s and sweatshirt (usually the same one) as soon as he walked through the door. He loved his coffee and conversations at the kitchen table with the king candle lit. He would have the best conversations with who ever stopped by. He was a brilliant and witty man. As a father he loved messing with his kids and grandkids, his humor kept everyone on their toes. He loved to tell really bad jokes to anyone who would listen and he loved to watch the entertainment of his family and friends unfold. He was very proud of his 16 years of sobriety and during that time he immersed himself in reading, mostly books about his Catholic faith. Two of his favorite quotes were “we are pillars of the community” and “poverty is nothing to be ashamed of”.

Matthew is survived by his children, Jessica Hurm-Kemp, Meggan (Brandon) Merrick, Bridget (Forrestt) Clark, Peter (Melissa) Hurm, Abigail (Eric) Degenhardt, Molly Hurm-Lee, Martin (Lindsy) Hurm, and Patrick (Anna) Hurm; grandchildren Maxwell, Jack, Lily, Elliott, Noah, Dorothy, Wyatt, Ryder, Flynn, Willow, Rosalyn, Gabriel, Gilbert, Hudson, Lola and waiting the arrival of 16th; his siblings, Martha, Marna, Mike, Mark, and Martin; and his in-laws, Janice (Dennis) Lawler, Steven Ferring, Mary Sue Weis, and Mary Jo Fleege.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Dorothy and Bud Ferring and his best friend Danny Ferring.

The Hurm family would like to express their sincere thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Engelman, and Jody Klauer #6.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. is entrusted with arrangements.

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

Sister Ann (Michaud) O’Hara, O.P.

Sister Ann (Michaud) O’Hara, O.P., died Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020, at St. Dominic Villa. Her funeral Mass will be at the Sinsinawa Motherhouse at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Feb. 7, with a wake there at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 6.

Sister Ann taught in Wisconsin parish schools in Milwaukee, Madison, Janesville, Columbus, and Baraboo; and in Minneapolis; Tuskegee, Ala.; and Kewanee, Ill. She was pastoral minister at St. John the Baptist parish in Johnsburg, Ill.; the Sinsinawa Motherhouse; and Resurrection Life Center, Chicago. She supported community life at Rosary Convent, River Forest, Ill., and the Sinsinawa Motherhouse before coming to St. Dominic Villa.

Sister Ann was born in Chicago, Ill., to Michael and Bridget (Durkin) O’Hara, Aug. 31, 1930.

She is survived by nieces, nephews, and her Dominican Sisters.

Edward J. Ruh

Edward J. “Ed” Ruh, age 71, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 10:05 a.m., on Sunday, February 2, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Ed’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor Ed’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Mark Kwenin officiating. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Ed was born on June 16, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Francis J. and Mary (Glab) Ruh.

Ed was a proud life long resident of Dubuque who attended Holy Ghost Grade School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. He was a hard worker who devoted 41 years to the Adams Company as a machine operator and an inspector, until his retirement in 2013. He was united in marriage to Debra Heming on May 28, 1983, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque, and they have been truly blessed with 36 years together. Ed was a faithful member of Holy Ghost Church, as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus. Ed loved spending time in the great outdoors, whether it be heading out to his favorite fishing hole for the day, or hitting the open road on his BMW motorcycle. He also liked spending time out in the woods hunting deer, pheasants, rabbits and turkey. Ed especially enjoyed spending time with Debbie at their second home in North Buena Vista. We are heartbroken at losing our wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and brother, and will miss him more than words can ever express. We love you Ed, and will cherish all of the countless memories we have made forever.

Those left to cherish Ed’s memory include

his loving wife,
Debra “Debbie” Ruh, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Joe (Mia) Ruh, Mapleton, ND;

his 2 granddaughters,
Olive and Penelope Ruh, Mapleton, ND;

and his siblings,
John C. (Phyllis) Ruh, Marion, IA
and Francine “Fran” Fagan, Dubuque, IA.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Marie Ruh; and a brother-in-law, Aaron Fagan.

Ed’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff from Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for the outstanding care and support they have provided to Ed and his family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities.

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

Leo J. Gansen Jr.

Leo J. Gansen Jr., 61, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on February 2, 2020 at Unity Point Health Trinity in Bettendorf, IA.

Visitation for Leo will be held from 1 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2020 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 2 p.m., a Knights of Columbus rosary will be held at 7 p.m., Farley Volunteer Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:30 p.m. and Epworth Volunteer Fire Department will meet in a body at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. at the funeral home on Friday. Mass of Christian burial for Leo will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2020 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Epworth, Iowa.

He was born February 27, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Leo J. and Shirley (Jaeger) Gansen Sr. He was a 1976 graduate of Western Dubuque High School. On October 20, 1979 he was united in marriage to Wendy Thias-Miller at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa. He worked at the Anamosa State Penitentiary in Anamosa, IA for 26 years.

Leo loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved fishing, camping and spending time at the family cabin in Guttenberg. He also enjoyed working on race cars in his shop in Epworth. Leo was an avid fan of Green Bay Packers, St. Louis Cardinals and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Leo was an avid supporter of the Western Dubuque Bobcat Athletics (especially #20 and #23) and could often be found at his grandchildren’s sporting events. He was proud of his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. He also made time to lend a helping hand to family, friends or a stranger.

He was a member of the St. John’s Parish in Placid, Iowa. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #7823, AFSCME Council #61, and Local #2994 where he served as past president. Leo served on the Board of Adjustment for Dubuque County and served on AFSCME Council #61 Executive Board. Leo was an avid political supporter and union member where he worked tirelessly to support workers’ rights.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy Gansen of Epworth, IA; four children, Damien (Tanya) Miller of Dubuque, IA, Terry (Andrea) Miller of Waterville, IA, Eric (Katie) Gansen of Farley, IA, Andrea (Jamie) Brehm of Bernard, IA; 14 grandchildren; a brother, Garry (Sue) Gansen of Epworth, IA; Brothers and Sisters-in-law, Bill (Cindi) Thias of Harpers Ferry, IA, Deanne Normann of Clermont, IA, Danny Beisker Leola, PA; and many close cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Eugene and Janet Thias; father-in-law, Marvin Miller; nephew, Justin Thias.

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

Dorothy M. Heitzman

Dorothy Mae (Ihm) Heitzman, 82, of Dubuque died Friday, January 31, 2020.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Colubmkille’s Catholic Church where visitation will be held Monday from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Dorothy was born August 4, 1937 in Menominee, IL, daughter of Aloyisus and Laura (Vaessen) Ihm.  In 1957 she married LaVern Heitzman at Nativity BVM, Menominee, IL.

She is survived by her husband, LaVern Heitzman of Dubuque; two daughters, Ellen (Donald) Bussan of Galena, IL and Nancy Tigges of Dubuque; four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, two brothers, and a sister.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son in law, a brother and a sister.

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

Sister Mary Ann Ruhde, BVM

Sister Mary Ann Ruhde, BVM, (Adoratrice), 82, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, at Caritas Center.