Obituaries Archive

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.

Robert L. Sprosty

Robert L. “Bob” Sprosty, 75, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday evening, April 8, 2020, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, Iowa.

A private family service celebrating “Bob’s” life will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  A private family visitation will also be held on Tuesday at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Robert Leonard Sprosty was born on October 29, 1944 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, to Leonard Wencil and Mae Agnes (Fisher) Sprosty.  He was a 1962 graduate of Davenport Assumption High School and a 1966 graduate of St. Ambrose University with a degree in History.  He married Deanna Sue Kelly of Maquoketa, Iowa, on September 17, 1966 in Davenport, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Michael Robert, Christopher Adam and Michele Elizabeth.

“Bob” had worked at Crescent Electric Supply in Davenport as a purchasing agent for 47 years, retiring in 2013.

“Bob” was an avid bowler and had previously served as President of the Davenport Bowling Association.  He had also served as Vice President of the Davenport Kiwanis Club.  In addition to bowling, he enjoyed gardening, coin collecting, and watching old western movies.  He had traveled to 49 of the 50 states with the exception being Alaska.  He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and for many years was well known for working security at all Iowa Hawkeyes sporting events.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Deanna Sprosty of Bettendorf, IA; children, Michael Robert Sprosty of Orefield, PA, Christopher Adam Sprosty of Davenport, IA, and CDR Michele (and her husband Robert “Ross” Carron) Sprosty of Norfolk, VA; 2 grandchildren, Jacob Sprosty and Ava Carron; and brothers, Donald (Natalie) Sprosty of Bettendorf, IA, and Douglas Sprosty of Davenport, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.

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.

Raymond J. Scherrman

Raymond J. “Ray” Scherrman 89, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2020, due to dementia. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Raphael Cathedral. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Farley, Iowa. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Ray was born on June 19, 1930 in Farley, Iowa, the son of Joseph and Marie (Carden) Scherrman. He graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Farley in 1948. Raymond served in the U.S. Army, Heavy Mortar Company 5 th Regimental Combat team during the Korean Conflict from 1952-1954. On November 20, 1954, he was united in marriage to Pearl McBride at St. Joseph’s Church in Farley.

After returning from the service he farmed north of Farley and ran an excavating business.

From 1972-1976, he served on the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. From 1976-1983, he worked at J.P. Scherrman Implement, a business founded by his father. In 1983, he became the Secondary Road Maintenance Manager for the Dubuque County Highway Department, where he worked until his retirement in 2005. Raymond was active in his community throughout his life, serving on multiple boards and organizations over the years. Ray was a member and past commander for the Scherrman Peterson American Legion Post 0656. He was a founding member of the Western Dubuque School Board and served from 1960-1972, having previously served on the Farley Public School Board. He served on the Draft Board, Dubuque County Mental Health Board, Camp Albrecht Acres, the Farley State Bank Board of Directors, the Farley Park Board, Western Dubuque Band Parents Association, Crime Stoppers, and the Dubuque County Democratic Party.

Ray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Pearl of Farley, IA; his children Dave (Barbara) Scherrman of Janesville, WI, Jerry (Bobbie) Scherrman of Cedar Rapids, IA, Tim (Janis) Scherrman of Dubuque, IA and Carol and Kathleen Scherrman both of Farley, IA; his grandchildren Tami (Rich) Griffin, Adam (Jo Ann) Hoffmann, Justin (Kassi) Scherrman, Ashley (Sean) Carey, Jacob (Ashley) Scherrman, Ryan (Tiffany) Scherrman, Amanda (Alex) Brant, Abby Scherrman and Sarah Scherrman; 10 great grandchildren and 20 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and their spouses, Virginia & John Hoefer and Ann Leonard Siegert, daughter-in-law Cindy Martin Scherrman, brothers-in-law the Rev. James J. McBride, Leo McBride, and Leon Kramer, sisters-in-law Madonna McBride and Mary McBride.

The Scherrman family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and to Dr. Mark Moore and his staff for their wonderful care and support.

Those wishing to send memorials in Ray’s name may do so to either the Veteran’s Freedom Center in Dubuque or the Farley Fire and EMS.

James C. Hendrickson

James C. “Lumpy” Hendrickson, 42, of Bloomington, WI, formerly of Galena, IL, passed away April 8th, 2020 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Potosi, WI.  Jamie deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with Covid 19, having a public visitation is not possible. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Jamie was born on August 19th, 1977 in Galena, IL, the son of Ronald and Rosemary (Winter) Hendrickson.

Jamie was a self-employed carpenter, he owned and operated H.E. Square Construction.

Jamie had a love for dirt track racing, riding his Harley, playing cards, but had no bigger love than he had for his girls.

Jamie is survived by his parents, Ronald and Rosemary Hendrickson of Galena, IL, his fiancé, Cindy Ross of Bloomington, WI, 4 daughters, Hannah, HopeAnn, Elonna, at home, Edna Richardson of Platteville, WI, brother Jeff Hendrickson of Hazel Green, WI, sister Joanne (Jim) Fonger of Hanover, IL, brother Justin (Lisa) Hendrickson of Dubuque, IA, granddaughter Roselee, Platteville, WI, several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by grandparents Luther “Slim” and Myrtle Hendrickson and Clarence and Rita Winter.

At a future time, when it is safe for everyone to be together, we will have a celebration of Jamie’s life. Until then, cards may be sent to 205 Park Ave Galena, IL 61036.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.

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

Robert A. Larsen

Robert A. Larsen, age 81, of Lancaster, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at his home.

He was born on March 16, 1939, in Fond du Lac, the son of Arthur and Luella (Brunet) Larsen.

Robert entered the United States Navy at the age of 17 and served his country until his honorable discharge and retirement in 1975 as a Chief Petty Officer. On August 30, 1997, he married Tamara (Cantrall) Ganley. Robert enjoyed his work in politics, the school board in Zion, IL, and City Council in New Jersey. His second retirement after 20 years in the Navy was with WGLR, Lancaster.

Robert enjoyed working in Community Theatre and his final years were spent doing artwork with his son, John and a special time there at River’s Edge Gallery in Kerrville, TX.

Survivors include his loving wife, Tamara Larsen; his children: Timothy (Mary) Larsen, Gloucester, NJ; Dan Larsen, Bridgeton, NJ; John (Patty) Larsen, Mullica Hill, NJ; Jim (Hiroko) Larsen, Sasebo, Japan; Julie Larsen, Woodbury Heights, NJ; step-son, Pat Ganley, Lancaster; 5 grandchildren; his siblings: Gloria Bauer and Carol Sobojinski, all of Oshkosh; a sister-in-law, Dixie Larsen, Oshkosh.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia “Pat” Larsen; his siblings, Dave Larsen and Judy (Larry) Ebel.

A Celebration of Life and burial with military honors at Van Buren Cemetery, Potosi, will be held at a later date. Martin Schwartz Funeral Homes & Crematory in Lancaster is serving the family.

Online condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Ralph C. Schmerbach

Ralph C. “Skip” Schmerbach, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at home following a sudden illness on Tuesday, April 7, 2020, three days short of his 80th birthday.

Private family Mass of Christian Burial will be at Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church followed by burial at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is caring for the family.

Skip was born on April 10, 1940 in Dubuque, the son of Ray and Gertrude (Winders) Schmerbach. He married Sally Ann Miller on July 14, 1962, at Saint Joseph the Worker. He did basic training with the United States Army and then served with the Army National Guard in the 389th division from 1961 to 1967.

Skip worked for the former Dubuque Packing Co, FDL, and Farmland Foods for a total of 42 years and was a member of the U.F.C.W. Local 150A. He later worked part time at Nordstroms. He enjoyed bowling, fishing and cheering on his favorite sports teams, the Packers, the Cubs and NASCAR.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years Sally; his three sisters Anne McClain, of Dubuque, Rose (John) Mitchell, of Dubuque, and Mary Walter, of Edgerton, WI; two brothers Ray (Mary Jane) Schmerbach and Dave (Penny) Schmerbach both of Dubuque; many nieces and nephews; a brother-in-law Jim McInerney and sister-in-law Roberta Schmerbach.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Shirley Revenig, Marilyn McInerney, Kenneth Schmerbach and Bob Schmerbach.

A Ralph “Skip” Schmerbach memorial fund has been established.

Jean H. Smith

Jean Harriette Smith, 87, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family.  She was born on October 18, 1932, in her parents’ home near Coggon, the daughter of Russell and Emma (Zumbach) Richardson. Jean was raised in the Coggon area and was a graduate of Coggon High School

On June 3, 1951, Jean was united in marriage to Freeman Smith at the Golden Congregational Church in Ryan. Four children were born to this union. Jean and Freeman farmed together north of Manchester until their retirement in 1989. They then moved to their current home south of Manchester.

Jean was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Manchester. She was also a member of the Silver Lake Garden Club. Jean loved music, dancing with Freeman, and also enjoyed teaching square and round dancing to others. The couple were longtime members of the Country Cousins Square Dancing Club. Their Do-Si-Do license plates signaled to others their love of dancing. Jean enjoyed cooking and was well known for her peanut clusters and enjoyed sharing them with her family and friends. She loved to do things for her children and grandchildren and cherished spending time with them.

Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Freeman Smith of Manchester; her three daughters, Delma (David) Hardin, Delana (Doug) Schulte, and Sherrie (Glen) Bockenstedt all of Manchester; one son, David (Julie) Smith of Manchester; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren with one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters, Marjorie, Doris, Blanche, and Margaret; and her three brothers, Paul, Ivan, and Louis.

Memorials may be sent to Freeman Smith, 19259 231^st Street, Manchester, Iowa. 

The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Regional Medical Center, Cedar Valley Hospice, and most especially to Mariah Kleitsch for their special care.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Because of the current COVID-19 concerns, there will be a Private Family Service and Interment held at this time.

Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester is assisting the family.

Mark E. Beard

Mark Eugene Beard, 64, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at his home.

Our dear husband, 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 private family funeral service will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Mark was born March 14, 1956, in Huntington Park, CA, the son of William Eugene and Joan Elizabeth Nelson Beard. On May 31, 1997, he married Shannon Kay Moore in Northridge, CA.

He was a 1974 graduate of La Serna High School in La Habra, CA and 1976 graduate of Rio Hondo College in Walnut, CA. He received his certificate in Christian Counseling from Light University in 2010.

Mark was a mechanical engineer with BMH for 30 years and a youth and family minister at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Dubuque for eight years. Besides his role as a minister in the church, he also did the church’s media and played as a drummer for services.

He loved his family, music, brewing beer, and everything Disney.

Survivors include his wife, Shannon; three daughters, Ryan (Bradford Cordell) Mullner and Devon (Ryan) Kohnen, both of Dubuque, and Jennifer Rudd of California; two sons, Mark Beard and William Beard, both of California; one granddaughter, Ella Whitney Kohnen; and two nieces, Jami Beard and Joani Beard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Jim Beard.

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 Mark’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Robert J. Meyer

Robert Joseph Meyer, 82, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Our dear husband, 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 private family funeral service will be held at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Burial will be in Odd Fellow Cemetery in Norman, OK at a later date.

Bob was born February 24, 1938, in Dubuque, the son of Kenneth and Margie Nolan Meyer. On August 16, 1958, he married Eulalia Lopez. She passed away December 17, 2001. He married his second wife, Sandy. She passed away in 2006. He married Mary Thompson in 2007.

He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving from 1955 until 1959.

Bob retired from John Deere Dubuque Works in 1992.

He was a member of Hope Church. He enjoyed furniture making and woodworking, leather crafting, taxidermy, camping, and hunting and fishing. He could talk to anybody and had many friends.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Meyer of Dubuque; his six children, Craig (Jan) Meyer of Moore, OK, Andrea Meyer of Norman, OK, Susana (Tim) Tegeler of Norman, OK, Rebecca (Victor) Brabo of Thornton, CO, Robert (Gwen) Meyer of Dubuque, and Marisa (Jason) Payne of Cedar Falls, IA; one daughter-in-law, Sherrie Meyer of Omaha, NE; 18 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Donald (Joan) Meyer of Dubuque, Tom (Judy) Meyer of Dubuque, and Joe Meyer of Heatherwood, MI.

Besides his first wife, Eulalia, and his second wife, Sandy, he was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Michael Meyer, and one grandson, Alex Tegeler.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, and Dr. Hermann and his nurse Sandy for their special care of Bob.

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

Bob lived his life according to this quote, “Life is not about having and taking, but about doing and giving.”

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

James F. Barry

James Francis Barry, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on April 5th, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Garner officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date and will be announced by Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Jim was born on January 22, 1931, in Dubuque, IA, the son of James E. Barry and Ida M. Meader (Brummer).

He served in the US Marine Corps during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1954. Jim was a member of UAW Local 94.

Jim retired from John Deere Dubuque Works in 1986 after 26 years. Jim enjoyed his retirement years playing in golf leagues, pheasant hunting, and volunteering. He loved having coffee with friends, and spending time with family. He was devoted to his children and grandchildren, and very proud of their accomplishments.

He could often be found near the Mississippi river where he enjoyed boating, fishing, and watching wildlife. He loved to drive and would frequently set off on road trips

Jim was kind-hearted, genuine, charming, and beloved by all. His children and grandchildren will treasure the fond memories of our many adventures with him, and the stories shared will continue to make us smile as we remember how special he was.

Jim is survived by his three children: Shawn (Rudy) Vera, of Dubuque; Michael (Angela) Barry, of Lakeville, MN, and Erin Herting, Iowa City, IA. Five grandchildren: Meghan, Matt, and Ben Barry; Cameron and Claire Herting. His brother, Bernard (Joan) Barry, of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his brother David L. Barry; and his sister Patricia Strong.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque, St Judes Children’s Hospital or the Dubuque Arboretum.

William R. Parker, Sr.

William R. Parker, Sr. 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 6th, 2020 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Private family service will be held at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

William was born on October 5, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Max and Ang (Richter) Parker. He married Joyce Parker on May 22, 1948 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

He worked for John Deere in Dubuque for 30 years and was a member of UAW Local 94.

William is survived by his children, Tammy Parker, Larry Parker, Billy Parker, Kristine Beckman, Ronald Parker Sr. and Ronald Parker Jr.; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; and his brother Jack (Sally) Parker.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Joyce.

Trudy K. Stapleton

Trudy Kay Stapleton, 71, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away Sunday afternoon, April 5, 2020 at home surrounded by her family.

A memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date at time to be announced at Holy Spirit Pastorate-Sacred Heart Church. Burial in Resurrection Cemetery, Asbury.

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.

Trudy was born on August 10, 1948 in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert W. and Kathleen A. (Pregler) McCoy.  She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1966. She was united in marriage to Michael A. Stapleton on October 23, 1981 at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.  He preceded her in death on November 30, 2010.

She was formerly employed as a receptionist at Medical Associates Clinic, Stapleton Law Office in East Dubuque, and Sedona Staffing until her retirement in 2001.

Trudy enjoyed gardening, growing herbs to make her own tea, but most of all, her flower garden, especially roses. She was a true animal lover.

Surviving are her siblings, Tom McCoy of Dubuque, Tim McCoy of Fresno, CA, Tina McCoy of Ft. Myers, FL, and Tracey (Robert) Block of Dubuque; three nephews: Adam, Robert Jr., and Mitchell, two nieces: Sarah and Kathleen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Kathleen; her first husband, Robert Fessenden; and her brother, Terry McCoy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dubuque Humane Society, 4242 Chavenelle Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002.

The family would like to give special thanks to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care provided to Trudy.

An extra special thank you Nikki Willman.

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