Obituaries Archive

John E. Beranek

John E. Beranek, 75, of Maquoketa, Iowa, died suddenly of a heart attack on Tuesday morning, July 28, 2020, at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A private gathering celebrating John’s life will be held at a later date.  At Peace Natural Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

John Edward Beranek was born on June 20, 1945 in Maine to Hubert Joseph and Athlyn Shirley (Tarr) Beranek.  He grew up in Washington County, Iowa and graduated from Washington High School with honors.  He then attended Iowa State University in Ames where he received his DVM degree with honors in 1969.

Upon graduation from college John practiced locally and then relocated to Glenview, Illinois where he owned his own veterinary practice until 1985.  He married Nancy DeRose on November 1, 1985 in Waukegan, Illinois, and they moved to Maquoketa, Iowa where he worked alongside Dr. Sturtz small animal practice for three years.  In 1989, he and his wife Nancy founded Bear River Nursery in Maquoketa which they operated until retirement in 2006.  For the past 14 years, John did what he loved doing.  Gardening, reading, visiting with friends and neighbors, and spending time with his beloved dogs Zeke and Amos.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Nancy Beranek of Maquoketa, IA; children from a previous marriage, Elizabeth, Cathryn and Joseph; 1 grandchild, Marann; a sister, Janet (Lyle) Parriott of Mt. Pleasant, IA; brothers, Edward Beranek of Maquoketa, IA, and Michael Beranek of Des Moines, IA; and 2 nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Barbara Baker.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Eileen Keuter

Eileen (Wills) Keuter, formerly of Manchester and Dyersville, ended her eleven-year journey thru the foggy valley of Alzheimer’s disease on Wednesday, July 29th, 2020 when she passed away at Luther Manor in Dubuque. There is great comfort in knowing she comprehends again who she is and is with her much beloved family and friends who proceeded her to our Father’s heavenly kingdom. Her physical isolation of over four months has ended.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. Sunday, August 2, 2020 at Kramer’s Funeral home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Monday morning from 9-10 a.m. prior to funeral services.

The family would encourage masks to be worn.  Please follow the CDC social distancing guidelines.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2020 at St. Francis Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Eileen was born on July 21, 1930, in Council Hill Township just north of Galena daughter of Charles O. and Catherine (Freese) Wills. She grew up on the family farm and went to the Millbrig country school. Eileen then attended St. Joseph Academy in Dubuque as a boarding student graduating in 1948.  At graduation she received the 120-word expert shorthand and typing speed awards. After graduating she worked at Rhomberg’s and The Hotel Julien.

On September 13, 1952, she married Dale H. Keuter at St. Michael’s Church in Galena. For several years they worked the Keuter family farm near what is now the Dyersville Field of Dreams.

In the mid-seventies Dale and Eileen started the family business in Earlville which over time became EIP Manufacturing. Through the years she played an integral part in the company’s development and growth thru Dale’s death on May 12, 2004. He was the visionary and she the detail person.

They loved to travel. Business took them to Germany, Nova Scotia as well as Hungary when it was still a communist country. In their early years of marriage they made a few trips to Las Vegas. Later on it was ocean cruises with their good friends, Bernie and Dorrie Murray. Eileen loved to play bridge and euchre, tending to her vegetable garden and spoiling her puppy, Gracie.

Survivors include: two sons, Kim (Kathy) of Dubuque and Karl (Judy) of Manchester; one daughter, Kathy (Pat) Krapfl of Delhi; nine grandchildren, Kurt Keuter of Milwaukee, Kwin Keuter (Kelli Blake) of Littleton, Colorado, Dr. Kaci Angelone, DVM (Peter) of Littleton, Colorado, Kipp Keuter of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kody Keuter of Fort Worth, Texas, Kory Keuter of Ames, Matthew (Courtney) Krapfl of Delhi, Callie (Cody) Beitz of Hopkinton and Derek (Hannah) Krapfl of Orland Park, Illinois; five great-grandchildren, Dominic and Aela Angelone, Chase and Marcus Krapfl and Brody Beitz. Other survivors include daughter-in-law Monica Schilling; sister, Betty Cogan; four sisters-in-law, Mary, Judy, Joanne and Lorraine Wills; brother-in-law Lloyd (Judy) Keuter.

Eileen was also preceded in death by her son Kevin in 2006; two stillborn daughters; her six brothers, Eldon, LaVerne, Donald, Merlin, Lee and Chuck; her sister-in-law, Doris Deutmeyer, and, brother-in-law Dick Cogan.

Her Catholic faith was extremely important to Eileen. She was a proud 50-year member of Catholic Daughters; wore out a few books of night prayers; said the rosary and attended daily mass frequently. Her wish was that the Catholic faith would also be important to her family.

The family thanks the kind staff members that extended their kind care and compassion first at Ellen Kennedy Center in Dyersville, then Oak Park Place and Luther Manor in Dubuque. Also a big thankyou to the folks at Hospice of Dubuque who saw to it that Mom was as comfortable as possible in her final days.

Memorials may be made to: Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, Hospice of Dubuque, Holy Family Catholic Schools of Dubuque, Beckman Catholic of Dyersville, and, Divine Word College.

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

Cletus J. Clasen

Cletus J. Clasen, 70, of LaMotte, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, July 29, 2020, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, August 6, 2020 at Holy Rosary Cemetery, LaMotte, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Cletus Joseph Clasen was born on November 5, 1949 in Bellevue, Iowa, to Wilfred John and Daisy Catherine (Scheckel) Clasen. He attended Holy Rosary School in LaMotte and graduated from Bellevue Marquette High School.

Cletus had worked as a general laborer for Hingtgen Lumber Company, Keene Lumber Company and lastly Sitco Lumber Company, all in LaMotte.

Cletus was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue and the Bellevue Knights of Columbus 1354. He enjoyed playing pool and especially cards with Euchre, Poker and Cinch being his favorites.

Those left to honor his memory include his siblings, Donald (Gayle) Clasen of Bernard, IA, Darrell Clasen of LaMotte, IA, and Anita Watters of Maquoketa, IA; a brother-in-law, Lorin Duesing of Bellevue, IA; 13 nieces and nephews; and 20 great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Wilfred Jr., and a sister Joanne Duesing.

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.

Karen S. Repp

Karen Sue Repp, 72 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 27, 2020 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm. to 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Jacob Bartlett officiating.

Karen was born on July 14, 1948 in Davenport, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Helen (Shirley) Rankins. She married Craig C. Repp on June 29, 1991 in Dubuque, Iowa.

Karen was the owner and manager of the Avalon Supper Club and Breezy’s Café. Karen was an energetic person full of life and loved everyone she came in contact with. Her ability to cook was displayed often at the Avalon Supper Club and Breezy’s Café that her and Craig owned and operated for over 10 years. The love of her family was very important to Karen especially her children and grandchildren. Karen believed in God, prayer and angels as a testimony to her spiritual life.

She is survived by her husband Craig Repp of Dubuque; children Timothy (Patricia Haberichter) Puetsch, of Bernard, Philip (Jennifer) Puetsch, of Dubuque, and Malinda (Terry) Sahm, of Rickardsville. Stepchildren, Richard (Sara Lyons) Repp, of Waterloo, Michael (Carolyn) Repp, of Waterloo, and Jason (Toni Castor) Repp, of Traer. Her grandchildren Blair (Jacob) Bartlett, Isabella Sahm, Molly Sahm, Will Sahm, Anthony Puetsch and Bethany Puetsch. Step-grandchildren, Amanda (Greg) Olson, Catherine Repp, Joseph Repp, Justin Crosky, Christopher Castor, Kadence Engler and Isaiha Reed. Step great granddaughter Samantha Olson. Her twin sister Sharon Winner and her brother John (Amanda) Rankins. Nieces Kimberly (John) Nimsgern, and Melissa Peters; nephew Douglas (Katie Kupferschmitt) Winner; great nieces and nephews; her cousin Cindy (Jack) Wold; and her forever friend Kathleen Thomas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather Robert Kelsey; brothers-in-law Gary Lakeman and Delbert Winner.

A Karen S. Repp memorial fund has been established in care of her husband Craig Repp, 435 Gilmore Street Dubuque, IA 52001.

The family would like to thank Dr. Eric Engelman and staff at Medical Associates Oncology Department, Hospice of Dubuque, Especially Sara, Amy and Jessica.

Robert H. Soppe

Robert H. “Bobby” Soppe, 68, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 27, 2020 at ManorCare.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 1, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Steve Garner officiating and military honors by the United States Army, Iowa National Guard. Family and friends may gather after 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home until time of service. Private family burial will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Robert was born on March 9, 1952 in Savanna, IL the son of Irene Felton and Robert Soppe. He is a US Army Veteran serving during the Korean Conflict. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and worked as a self-employed roofer and sider.

Bobby was the best bartender in Dubuque and had everyone in stitches with his wonderful sense of humor.

He is survived by his mother Irene Dement; his son Christopher Soppe; siblings, Renee (Wade) Johnson, Ruth Jurisic, Cindy (Masa) Campton-Iwasaki, Wendy (Ray) Schickel, Terry (Laura) Dement, and Glenn Dement; his former wife Patti Williams; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Soppe; his sisters Rose Marie Soppe and Connie Dement; brothers John Soppe and Dean Dement; and his step-father Harold Dement.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at ManorCare for all the wonderful care they gave to Bobby.

Barbara A. McDonald

Barbara A. McDonald, 81, of Dubuque, passed away at her home on Tuesday, July 28, 2020.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.  on Thursday, July 30,  at Egelhof, Siegert, & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 7 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 31, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home Facebook page. The church requires masks for all attendees. Rev. Phillip Gibbs will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery immediately following the service.

Barb was born May 31, 1939 in Dubuque, IA, daughter of George and Doris Beyhl Peil.  She and James B. McDonald Jr. were married on May 13, 1961 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.  He passed away on July 8, 2013.  Barb worked at St. Vincent de Paul for 22 years, retiring in 2006.  She enjoyed gardening, puzzles, genealogy, games, and spending time with her family and friends.  Everyone enjoyed her fried chicken, potato salad, and caramel bars.  She was a member of Resurrection Catholic Church.

Barb is survived by son, James B. McDonald III, Dubuque; three brothers, George F. (Sonny) Peil, and Jeffrey Lynn Peil, both of Dubuque, Michael (Susan) Peil of Bellevue, IA; two grandsons, Zachary James McDonald, Omaha, NE, and Nicolas James McDonald, Aurora, CO; one great-granddaughter, Poppy Grace McDonald, Omaha, NE, and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, James B. McDonald Jr.; parents, George (Doris Beyhl) Peil; parents-in-law, James B. (Florence Connell) McDonald Sr.; two sisters, Carolyn Jo Peil, Beverly Orcutt Russell; three brothers, Richard, Kenneth, and Donald L. Peil; and sister-in-Law, Diane L. Peil.

In lieu of flowers, a Barbara A. McDonald Memorial Fund has been established.

Thanks to Dr. Liaboe, his nurse Trish, and her loving son Jim, for helping her through her entire journey.  Also, a special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jan, Brittney, and Stephanie and all our family and friends who helped in so many ways.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Daniel T. Welp

Daniel Thomas “Dan” Welp, 52, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Sunday, July 26, 2020 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, after suffering a traumatic brain injury from a fall at his residence on July 17, 2020.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2020 at Nativity BVM Church in Menominee with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque. The funeral mass will be live-streamed on the Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, and from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday, August 3 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.

Dan was born on September 16, 1967 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Thomas J. and Janice O. (Scott) Welp.  He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 1986, where he participated in baseball and football.

He was united in marriage to Ann Marie Hilby on February 15, 1992 at Nativity BVM Church. Dan was the owner of American Ceiling Company. Prior to being self-employed, he worked at the Chicago Dubuque Foundry and Maryville Construction.  He proudly served in the United States Naval Reserves for over 20 years where he made lifelong friends with whom he stayed in touch.  Dan’s most precious accomplishments, and the ones he was most proud of, occurred on September 30, 1996, and June 22, 1998, when Brian and Jenna were born.  He was extraordinarily proud of his children and could be found cheering them on in all they did.

Dan enjoyed dirt track racing and could be found in his red, white, and blue #43 at the Dubuque and Farley Speedways. Dan loved hunting, archery, and fishing, especially trips out west or up north with his family and friends.  He was always up for a good game of euchre and played on the Daniel’s Lounge euchre team. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.  Dan was a very competitive person who could throw a mean game of bean bags, and seemingly always made it into the final round of the family croquet tournament.  He enjoyed watching all sports, especially those that Brian and Jenna played.

Surviving are his wife, Ann; their two children, Brian Welp and Jenna (fiancé, Brandon Thein) Welp both of East Dubuque; his mother, Janice Welp of Dickeyville, WI; his siblings, Brett (Rhonda) Welp of East Dubuque, Kevin Welp of Midland, MI, and Susan (Shannon) Hoppman of Green Bay, WI; his father-in-law, Kenneth Hilby of Menominee; in-laws, Mike (Becky) Hilby of Galena, Julie (Patrick) Ketchum of Springfield, IL, and Sara (Steve Holloway) Hilby of Skokie, IL, as well as several nieces and a nephew.

He was preceded in death by his father, Tom, and his mother-in-law, Jan Hilby.

Dan’s family would like to thank the East Dubuque Fire and Rescue Squad, Mercy Hospital, and University of Iowa Hospitals for their quick response and excellent care of Dan.  The family would also like to thank all of those who donated, brought food, sent words of encouragement, and offered prayers after Dan’s accident.  They are humbled and very grateful for all the support.

In lieu of flowers, a Daniel T. Welp memorial fund has been established.

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

Donald L. Cornish

Donald Louis Cornish, 89, of Dubuque, went to be with God on Saturday, July 25, 2020, at Luther Manor. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, August 1, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2215 Windsor Ave., Dubuque, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home Facebook page. Masks are required by the church. Friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 1, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6.

Donald was born May 28, 1931 in Dubuque, the son of Louis and Helen (Specht) Cornish. Donald attended Sacred Hearth School. He married his sweetheart, Jean Ann Banck on June 14th, 1952 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Don was employed at the Dubuque Packing Company as a meat worker until his retirement in 1986. On weekends, he painted houses with his father. Don purchased and renovated two houses into apartments. Don and Jean Ann worked together to create the dream of the life they wanted. Together, they designed and built a house to raise a family in and moved into it in 1959. Don worked hard so Jean Ann could stay home and be a wife and mother. He treated her like a princess, and with great respect. Don always thought that Jean Ann had the harder job. They enjoyed traveling every summer with their children, and visited many states over the years.

Don served in the National Guard and received the National Defense Service Medal. He also served his country from Oct. 1953- Jan. 1956 with the U.S. Army during the Korean War, earning his Rifle Sharpshooter Badge and the rank of Cpl. E-4.  While stationed in Verdun, France, he traveled to nine countries. He took many slides of the scenery and people. Don enjoyed meeting people and spoke of how grateful they were that the Americans were there.

He loved to play baseball as a child, and for the Dubuque Packing Company he was the “clean up batter”. He instilled this love for baseball in his sons, and would attend all their games. He also enjoyed hunting with his father and friends all his life. Don looked forward to the two weeks every year he traveled to South Dakota to hunt pheasant with Rick and Steve. Fishing was another favorite pastime, and he had the opportunity to fish with Karen in the ocean. Don bowled for many years in a Men’s League and Mixed Doubles with his wife and children. Don and Jean Ann would go out country dancing every Saturday night. He loved listening to country and Irish music. Pat recalls her special conversations with Don on their Friday “shopping sprees”, and relaxing at Music In The Park on Sundays.

After retirement, Don didn’t stop working. He would buy cars, and with his friends would fix them and sell them. He also became a Day Trader, and loved to talk about the stock market. In 2014, he went on one of the last Honor Flights to Washington D.C. Don was a very energetic and sociable man, who was always on the go, and loved to meet people and talk, and had a love of life.  Don was a smart man and enjoyed challenging himself to accomplish any task, but he also had a teasing sense of humor and like to tell jokes.  His family was his pride and joy, and he showed his love not so much in words but by his actions.

He will be truly, deeply missed by his wife, family, and friends. The family he is so proud of includes his loving wife of 68 years, Jean Ann Cornish, of Dubuque; four children, Rick (Mitzi) Cornish of Dubuque, Karen Cornish of Melbourne, FL, Pat Richey of Dubuque, and Steve (Carolyn) Cornish of Dubuque; grandchildren Ami (Chad) Guler of Hazel Green, WI,  Christian (Kayla) Cornish of Green Bay, WI, Sorcha Cornish-Carpenter of Cannon Falls, MN, Danielle Richey of Dubuque, Brandon (Lindsey) Richey of Cedar Rapids, Nicole Richey of Dubuque, and Elijah Cornish of Dubuque; grandchild in law, Josh Lynch of Asbury;  13 great grandsons; 4 great granddaughters; his sisters in law Dorothy Gray of Dubuque, Rita (James) Moran of Dubuque; and Kay (Dennis) Strumberger of Omaha, NE; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his sister and brother in law,  Darlene (Cornish) and Merlin “Mac” Langkamp; granddaughter Sam (Cornish) Lynch; and his parents. Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Sister Dolores M. Kramer, BVM

Sister Dolores M. Kramer, BVM (Jeanne Michele), 91, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, July 26, 2020, at Caritas Center.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2020, followed by a virtual visitation from 10:25-10:40 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial in the Marian Hall Chapel at 10:45 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Dolores ministered as a pastoral associate at St. Edward in Waterloo, Iowa. She was secondary teacher in Clinton and Des Moines, Iowa; Chicago; Kansas City, Mo.; Wichita, Kans.; and Glendale, Calif.; and an elementary teacher in Fort Dodge, Iowa; Chicago; Grayslake, Ill.; and West Hempstead, N.Y. She served as an administrative assistant in Chicago and as a spiritual director in Chicago and Los Altos, Calif.

She was born on Aug. 20, 1928, in Alta Vista, Iowa, to Charles and Marguerite (Keniry) Kramer. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1948, from St. John Parish, Waterloo, Iowa. She professed first vows on March 19, 1951, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1956.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Patrick Kramer, a sister Joan Ford and a brother-in-law Jim Wegenknecht. She is survived by a sister Mary Lois Wegenknecht, Kimberly City, Mo.; a sister-in-law Rita Kramer, Waterloo, Iowa; a brother-in-law Richard Ford, Windsor Heights, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 71 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.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, Dubuque, Iowa 52002 is in charge of arrangements.

Carol A. Smith

Carol Ann (Bakey) Smith, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away the morning of July 26 at Finley Hospital due to underlying health conditions and recently contracting Covid-19.

Graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2020 at Holy Family New Melleray Cemetery. All family and friends are encouraged to attend. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Carol was born February 2, 1946, in Dubuque to James “Jimmy” Bakey and Bernice Cavanagh Bakey.  In 1953, she and her parents and siblings moved to the Cavanagh family farm just north of New Melleray Abbey in Peosta were she was raised.

Carol loved the farm life, and never shied away from getting her hands dirty.  She enjoyed doing the many chores around the family farm while her older brothers were away serving their country.  She often spoke of her love of her horse “Cindy” and their many adventures.

Carol graduated from Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa in 1964 and later from Capri Cosmetology and Northeast Iowa Community College.  Over the years, she evolved as a professional, but what truly drove her was a strong desire to help others.  Whether it was a haircut, working as a prevention specialist or just doing whatever felt good at the moment, she would always find a way to rise to the occasion and help others.  Carol loved throwing parties and was very involved in organizing her class reunions.  She also love playing cards, but was known to cheat often…

She met the love of her life, Gary J. Smith, four miles from home, up a gravel road.  Soon thereafter, they fell in love with one another and kissed for the first time at the fish pond at Eagle Point Park.  They were married June 27, 1964, at Holy Family Church, New Melleray.  Later in life, she and Gary loved traveling, smuggling cigars and spending time at their vacation home in Arizona.  Carol loved her Arizona friends and being able to harass her favorite brother “Mud” who once tied her to a chair and tried to set her on fire.  Her favorite trip was to Ireland with her sister Darlene, where the tour guide labeled the two of them as the “Twisted Sisters.”  She was passionate about her Irish lineage but didn’t care for corned beef.

She loved spending time with her family and friends, but most of all her grandchildren.  She would stop at nothing to organize anything silly for them to do.  She loved having fashion shows with her three granddaughters and watching her grandson play baseball.

Carol is survived by her husband of 56 years Gary, her son Dan (Jennifer) Smith and her daughter Dana (Brad) Holthaus and her four grandchildren, Cole and Gabbi Smith and Isabella and Sophia Holthaus, all of Dubuque.

She is survived by her siblings Richard (Keiko) Bakey, Gene “Mud” (Kay) Bakey and John (Ruth) Bakey.  She is also survived by her in laws, Leonard T. Smith JR, Mary Helen (Richard) Goss, Chris (Mary Beth) Smith, Grayson (Janet) Smith and Laura Smith.  She is also survived by her sister and brother in laws Mark Beckman, Mike Breen, Juanita Bakey and Don Hentges.  She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by both of her parents James and Bernice Bakey, her in-laws Leonard and Monica Smith and Innocence Ann Smith.  Also proceeding her passing were her brother Gerald Bakey, sisters Mary Breen and Darlene Beckman and sisters in law Diane Hentges and Karen Smith.

John H. Del Degan

John H. Del Degan, age 64 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on July 25, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor John’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving John’s family.

John was born on June 24, 1956 in Toronto, Canada, a son to Enrico and Wanda (Zamalo) Del Degan.  He earned his Bachelors of Science in Geology from the University of Waterloo in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada and did some prospecting and worked in an amethyst mine before moving to San Diego to begin the next chapter in his life.  It was there that he met his beautiful bride, Pamela Saylor, and the couple was united in marriage on September 28, 2002.  John has surely been called home much too early, but his years were thankfully abundantly full of all that is good in this world.  John was currently investing his working hours with John Deere Dubuque Works, but he had worked in IT for the majority of his working career, primarily with IBM, and PB & J Consulting.  But, anyone who knew John also understood that his heart always belonged in the field of Geology.  He was blessed to have had many adventures of being set free into the wilderness to scout for new formations with only the hope of weekly support being air dropped in along the way.  In earlier years he spent plenty of time in the dojo working on his martial arts and more recently was actively involved in supporting his daughter Rika, with her interest in English style horse riding and competitions.  Building computers brought some satisfaction to his days as well, and he gladly provided the entire family computer consulting and advice.  John lived his life to the fullest each and every day.  His commitment to his family was undeniable and playing the role of husband and father was not only what he was made to do, but truly where he shined the most.  John was a kind, gentle, genuine, and polished soul who understood that romance beat routine every day, and that sacrifice was as rewarding as facing any challenge which came his way.  The world is definitely a lesser place today without John’s effervescent energy connecting so effortlessly with everyone he encountered, and thankfully he has left us with an amazing collection of memories to treasure through the years ahead.  Thank you, John, for setting the bar so high and for continually role-modeling what a real man looks and acts like.  May peace from your earthly battles be yours now and may you be safely kept in the Lord’s loving arms until we meet again.  Job well done Thy good and faithful servant!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of John include,

his loving wife and partner of 20 years,
Pamela Del Degan, Dubuque, Iowa;

his adored daughter,
Rika Del Degan, Dubuque, Iowa;

his siblings,
Maureen Del Degan, Toronto, Canada,
and Dan (Colleen) Del Degan, Seminole, Florida;

his sisters-in-law,
Mary (Richard) Meyer,
and Marilyn (David) McDermott;

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

John was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and mother and father-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

John’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the University of Iowa, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Also, a very sincere thank you to Madonna Friedman, OSF, and all of our family and friends who have been so generous with their time, support, and endless efforts.  Your kindness has brought more peace into a difficult time than you could ever imagine.  May God bless you all for the parts you have played.

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

Peggy J. Shalabi

Peggy J. Shalabi, 75 of Sauk City, Wisconsin died unexpectedly, but peacefully at her new home in Dubuque, Iowa after spending a lovely summer evening with her family.

She was born Peggy Jean Goltz on November 5, 1944 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the third of four children born to her parents Lloyd and Lucille Goltz.

Peggy was an active child and was fond of sharing the fact that she was the fastest runner in her grade school.

This athletic streak led her to pursue physical education as her major in college (the first person in her immediate family to attend) first at Suomi College in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and then at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse.

It was while attending UW-LaCrosse that she met George Shalabi — the love of her life — whom she would eventually marry in 1967.

After marrying, Peggy and George both found jobs in the Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin area and moved there to begin their careers and start a family. And they were life-long residents until last year when they moved to Dubuque, Iowa to be closer to their eldest daughter.

Peggy and George had two, strong adventurous daughters — Leslie and Samia who are carrying on their parents’ legacy of warmth, hospitality and joy in their own unique ways.

Peggy worked in the Sauk-Prairie school district as a physical education teacher first at the Middle School, then Madison Street school and finally Spruce Street school where she taught hundreds of kids over her 30+ years as an educator. In 1997 Peggy went back to school for her master’s degree in counseling and reinvented herself as a guidance counselor for the final six years as a teacher.

She was very dedicated to her students and had a special place in her heart for little ones going through a hard time — whether that was something as commonplace as losing a grandparent or more complex and challenging like abuse and neglect.  For a short time, she volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate to help represent children involved in difficult custody or legal situations with their families.

As years went on, she never tired of running into her students or kids of her students or grandkids of her students while out and about in the community — the inevitable legacy of someone who teaches for so long in a small community.

She maintained very strong friendships with many women throughout her life that brought her meaning and great joy.

Peggy loved lots of things: colby cheese, supper club fish fries, reading, coffee with her girlfriends, travel, her “snow crown”, the cabin in Mountain, Wis., the Anna Maria Island gang, Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, Franzia Crisp White wine, sewing, Jeopardy, sitting on the porch, her foster cat, flowers, and her daughters and of course, her husband.

What she didn’t really love all that much were snakes and she was famously afraid of them, which was fodder for lots of funny family stories through her years living in rural Wisconsin.

Peggy had her fair share of health challenges over the years — breast cancer, double knee replacement and later in life COPD, which made breathing and getting around challenging and put a lot of strain on her heart.

And she lost her beloved husband George just six months ago in January 2020 — which also put a lot of strain on her heart, and it finally gave out, quickly and painlessly in the night.

Peggy is survived by her two daughters Leslie Shalabi (Mike Muench) of Dubuque, Iowa and Samia Shalabi (Jack Williams) of Madison, Wisconsin and Bali, Indonesia. As well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and many life-long friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Lucille and her siblings Kaylene, Helen and Bob, her niece Michelle and nephew Todd, as well as her husband of 52 years, George Shalabi.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hope House of South Central Wisconsin (720 Ash St., Baraboo, WI 53913), an organization providing support to victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

Because a traditional memorial service is challenging right now, the family is planning an outdoor reception with light refreshments at the east pavilion in Marion Park in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin on Saturday, August 15, from 2 pm to 5 pm. Friends are welcome to stop by to for a visit with masks and social distancing encouraged. Remembrances are being shared at 2:30 pm, please bring your memories of Peggy to share with us.

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

Berna L. Sagers

Berna L. Sagers, 83, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, July 25, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Berna Leah McCarty was born on July 1, 1937 in Canton, Iowa, to Bernie and Bernice (Kiester) McCarty. She grew up in Canton area and then moved to Maquoketa. She married Carlyle “Gabby” Clark on February 20, 1954 in Baldwin, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 15, 1982. She then married Ernie Scheeder on August 14, 1992 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. He preceded her in death on December 28, 1992. She lastly married Alan Lane Sagers on March 5, 1994 in Shell Knob, Missouri. He preceded her in death December 6, 2019.

Berna had first worked as a Certified Nurses Aide at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa for many years and following her marriage to Ernie she became a farmer.

She was a woman who could never sit still and was always staying busy. She enjoyed working outside and working hard, and spending time with her grandchildren and dogs.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Barbara (Dennis) Waugh of Dubuque, IA, and Sue (Randy) Weirup of Maquoketa, IA; 6 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Carlyle, husband Ernie and husband Lane, a daughter and son-in-law Mary and Richard Schulz, brother Marvin McCarty, sister Donna Arterberry and a grandson Joshua Schulz.

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

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

Kenneth G. Brown

Kenneth G. “Ken” Brown, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 5:28 p.m., on Sunday, July 26, 2020, at his home surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Ken’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Friday, July 31, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, the family asks that anyone attending please wear a mask.  To honor Ken’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:30 a.m., at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Ken was born on November 2, 1934, in Dubuque, son of King and Lena (Rubner) Brown.

Ken was a life long resident of Dubuque. At age 16, Ken went to work to help support his family, starting at Farley & Loetscher for 12 years until they closed the plant.  He then devoted 34 years to Flexsteel Industries, until his well earned retirement in 1997.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Valeta Wuertzer, on June 25, 1955, at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.  They were very excited to have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary earlier this year.  Ken was an excellent handyman, as well as a talented woodworker, who in his free time created several beautiful pieces for family and friends.  Ken enjoyed being outdoors, spending lots of time hunting, fishing and gardening.  He also enjoyed watching the squirrels, rabbits and birds that would frequent his yard.  Ken loved to travel out west where he could enjoy the Rocky Mountains, and also took the family on trips to Yellowstone National Park.  There was never a doubt that Ken’s family was the most important aspect of his life, spending time with Valeta, the kids and the grandkids, brought him great joy and happiness.  We are heartbroken at losing our wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa in our daily lives.  He was truly one of a kind and we will miss him deeply.

Those left to cherish Ken’s memory include

his loving wife of 65 years,
Valeta Brown, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Judy (John) Schroeder, Asbury, IA,
Cindy (Dave) Meyer, Bernard, IA
and Dennis Brown, Dubuque, IA;

his 7 grandchildren,
Terrence Schroeder, Tammy (Ed) Snook, Kimberly (John) Schroeder-Freund, Karina (Michael) Schroeder-Koh, Kristin (Josh) Thomas, Stacy (Randy) Dupont and Eric (Mandy) Meyer;

and his 10 great-grandchildren,
Gavin, Isaac, Hazel, Jake, Austin, Madilyn, Colton, Jaxon, Corbin and Gunner;

and a very special nephew,
Jeff Davis, St. Catherines, IA.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 sisters Lorraine (George) Davis and Ruth (Ed) Gerlach.

Ken’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jennifer and Amy, for all of their wonderful care of Ken, they truly are angels on Earth.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Kenneth Brown Family.

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

Steven A. Hefel

Steven A. “Steve” Hefel, age 68, of North Buena Vista, Iowa, was called home suddenly at 12:25 a.m., on Friday, July 24, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  To celebrate Steve’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista, Iowa.

Steve was born on May 10, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Albert and Dorothy (Curtis) Hefel Jr.

Steve attended grade school in North Buena Vista and went on to high school at Leo High School, West Dubuque High School, and finally graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  Steve was a jack of all trades, and was employed with the railroad, B&K Meats in Sherrill, Dubuque Stamp, John Deere Dubuque Works, ran his own business called Hefel’s Locker, FDL, Uelner Tool and Die, and Riley Construction, before going back to John Deere, from where he would eventually retire in May of 2015.

Steve met, and eventually married his soulmate, Judy Ploessl, on May 26, 1973, at St. Francis Church in Balltown, Iowa.  They were blessed to settle down and raise their 5 boys, and enjoy 47 years of wedded bliss together.  In his free time, Steve enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding and working on his motorcycle.  He loved landscaping and was extremely proud of his yard, strategically placing every rock.  Steve was an avid racing fan, he and Judy attended the Indy 500 every year for 30 years.  He also liked watching Westerns, and always had a bowl of popcorn on his lap, as he was a true popcorn aficionado.  Steve was also known for making his own homemade wine and brewing his own beer.  Steve was a very simple man who required nothing but friends, and could make a friend anywhere he went.  We are deeply saddened at losing Steve so unexpectedly in our daily lives, and our nightly bowl of popcorn will never be the same without him.  We miss you, love you, and look forward to the day we are all reunited again in Heaven.

Those left to cherish Steve’s memory include

his loving wife,
Judy Hefel, North Buena Vista, IA;

his 4 sons,
Craig Hefel, Davenport, IA,
Patrick (Amy) Hefel, Marion, IA,
Ricky (Christa) Hefel, Osterdock, IA
and Lucas Hefel, Dubuque, IA;

and his 16 grandchildren;
Olivia, Chloe, Allison, Peter, Alex, April, Kalkidan, Austin, Will, Sam, Kaleb, Eneasha, Brianna, Braden, Bryson and Aiden.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jeremy Hefel; and 2 brothers, Christopher Hefel and Clark Hefel.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Steve Hefel Family.

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