Obituaries Archive

Edward J. Lightcap

Edward John “Jack” Lightcap, 65, formerly of Portland, Oregon, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2020. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, February 22 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In Portland, Oregon, a celebration of life will be held in Emily’s home from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday, March 7.

Jack was born in Dubuque, Iowa on April 12, 1954, the son of Albert Wallace (Wally) and Eunice (Strelesky) Lightcap.

Jack was an incredibly bright man with a knack for numbers and making those around him laugh and smile. He graduated with honors from University of Iowa with a B.S. in Accounting and went on to earn his CMA and CPA. Soon after, he moved to Chicago to join PricewaterhouseCooper. While at PWC, he was given the honor of tabulating the season’s Academy Award’s Oscar winners, as the votes are verified by Price.

Later on, Jack moved to Portland, when he was offered a job from Pacific Power. He moved on to serve in various executive accounting and finance roles throughout his career.

Jack spent much of his life living out his “west coast dream.” He fell in love with nature and the green landscape of the PNW. In 1990, he married Denise Farmer. They had one daughter, Emily. Jack loved being a father and particularly enjoyed spending time with Emily, cheering her on at swim meets, riding bikes, and going to the track together.

Surviving are his partner, Denise; his daughter, Emily (Conor Arcuri); and his brothers, Bill Lightcap, Ted (Pat) Lightcap, Greg (Linda) Lightcap, and Joel (Linda Robinson); and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eunice and Wally; brothers Tom and Gary, in infancy.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the ALS foundation.

Jane E. Heiar

Jane Eileen Heiar, 54, of Solon, Iowa died Thursday, February 13, 2020, at her home after succumbing to a chronic illness, a failing heart.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jane was held at 10:30 AM Monday, February 17, 2020, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael with Rev. Father Greg Bahl as the Celebrant. Entombment was in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Jane was born on a brilliant sunny day on December 4, 1965, in Dubuque, the daughter of Merlin and Eileen Savary Heiar. Jane was intelligent; graduating from the University of Iowa College of Nursing, where she earned her RN-BSN degree with high honors. Jane specialized in obstetrics and high-risk labor and delivery. During a portion of her career, she was a travel nurse, and received hundreds of notes of gratitude from women all over the U.S. for her compassionate skilled care. She had a tender heart, and often cared for animals in need. She loved to laugh and be included in fun and would do anything for anybody. She loved music, the Iowa Hawkeyes, and water, beaches, and boating. She was a member of the Cathedral of St. Raphael.

Survivors include two brothers, Kurt (Laura Strait) Heiar of North Liberty, and John Heiar of Solon, IA; a sister, Kris (Robert Newman) Heiar-Newman of Lake Forest, IL; two nephews, Jordan Heiar Newman, and Cody John Heiar Newman; as well as her nephew-cat, Squeeks.

She was preceded in death by her father Merlin in 1994, and her mother Eileen in 2018, for whom she never stopped grieving, and her beloved dog, Beau. The loss of her mother broke Jane’s heart.

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

Condolences can be sent to The Heiar Family, at P.O. Box 555 North Liberty, Iowa 52317

Richard Rolwes

Richard “Dick” “R.P.R.” Rolwes, 81, of Dubuque, died Sunday, February 16, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM Sunday, February 23, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. The Mass of Christian Burial for Dick will be 11:00 AM Monday, February 24, 2020, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Balltown with Rev. Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery in Balltown.

Dick was born November 7, 1938, in Balltown, the son of Peter “Fred” and Kathleen Engling Rolwes. On May 18, 1957, he married Sandy Schmitt in Balltown, together they shared 62 wonderful years.

He owned and operated the Rolwes Family Heritage Farm his whole life. He was very proud of his livestock, specifically his Black Angus cattle.

He was a lifelong member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, and attended Church of the Resurrection after they moved to Dubuque. He was a charter member of the Balltown Lions Club, and for many years he served on the board of the Sherrill Mutual Insurance. Dick liked to have a Crown Royal straight up, the way it should be, with his Waupeton Friends. He will be dearly missed by the stray cats on his farm, that he fed everyday, rain or shine, even after they had moved to Dubuque. He loved to go on rides on his father’s first tractor, a Farmall M, that he later refurbished in 2006. He enjoyed farming, tending to his cattle, gardening, watching the Chicago Cubs, spending time with his family and friends, and having a cocktail or several while telling stories.

Survivors include his loving wife, Sandy; daughter, Cindy (Steve) Kutsch of Balltown; son, Pat (Tammy) Rolwes of Sherrill; daughter, Laurie (Jeff Herburger) Rolwes of Verona, WI; grandchildren, Andy (Emily) Kutsch, Matt (Stephanie) Kutsch, Stephanie (Brian “Ponch”) Wulfekuhle, Brian (Abby Jasper) Kutsch, Justin (Karla) Rolwes, Kyla (Marlow Stewart) Rolwes, Derrick (Lauren) Rolwes, Dallas (Ashley) Rolwes, Blake Herburger; 12 great-grandchildren; and his special friends, Joe Kos and Francis Frommelt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Greg Rolwes, three brothers and their spouses, Norbert (Lucille) Rolwes, Elmer (Clara) Rolwes and Pete (Meralda) Rolwes; two sisters and their spouses, Bernice (Jack) Riniker, and Lucille (Marty) Schmal.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the emergency staff and Dr. Markham at Finley Hospital and the staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, especially the Compassionate Care Team. And from the bottom of their hearts, the family thanks Dick’s great friend, Franny, for looking after the farm.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Bernadette M. Weber

Bernadette M. “Bernie” Weber, 85, of Dubuque, IA passed away Sunday, February 16, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the church until time of mass. Burial will be at Saint Paul Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Bernie was born on February 26, 1934, in Chadron, Nebraska the daughter of Herman and Leona (Sherlock) Weber. For many years she worked as a proofreader for newspapers including the Clinton Herald and the Dubuque Telegraph Herald. She was an avid card player, especially euchre and bridge. She was a member of the American Contract Bridge League, the Dubuque Swing Club, the Dubuque Packer Pals, and Saint Anthony Parish.

She is survived by her brother Richard Weber, her sister-in-law Betty Weber, along with many nieces and nephews.

Bernadette was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters Clara (Dick) Tobin and Margaret (Merlin) Heims; six brothers Wilfred, Clarence, Vincent, Jerome, Donald, and Bernard.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Saint Anthony Parish.

The family would like to thank all her friends and neighbors at Applewood for making Bernie a part of your family community.

Aiden G. North

Aiden Gordon North entered the world with beautiful blue eyes, the shoulders of a linebacker, and the love of his parents on December 20, 2006.  He was 364 days younger than his sister, and he loved that they were the same age one day every year.  He taught himself to read by the age of two, and had started coding programs by the age of 8.  He had a deep passion for learning and loved to watch educational videos on YouTube.  He was incredibly intelligent, creative, affectionate and sweet.  He loved to whoop people while playing video games of all varieties. He had a vast and deep knowledge of video game culture, new and esoteric.  He loved his cat, and loved to delight people with his extensive cat t-shirt collection.  He never failed to enjoy Halloween, and he never stopped believing in Santa.  Above all he believed in kindness, and never failed to be kind to every person he ever met, and even those that he never met. He was very gentle and he loved music.  He was deeply loved, and he loved deeply.

Aiden Gordon North left this world at the age of 13 with a song and the love of his parents, family, and every person who followed his story on February 12, 2020.  He had been battling T-Cell ALL since September of 2017.  Leukemia changed every person who knew him, and even those that didn’t.  He battled cancer with absolute love and bravery.  He never once stopped fighting and he never once stopped believing that he would win.  He waved with all his might at the Iowa Hawkeyes from his window on level 11 of the Stead Family Children’s Hospital many a time.  People across the country and in the stadium waved back.  He charmed all of his nurses and doctors with his impeccable manners and wonderful smile.  He delighted volunteers, and was much cheered by them during his numerous admissions.  He never lost his smile and his mother never left his side.  He is deeply missed.

He leaves behind his loving parents Jared and Megan North, his dedicated sister Vanessa, his Grandparents, and so many Aunties, Uncles, Cousins, friends (online and off) and classmates.

There will be a short visitation and Celebration Service held on Sunday February 23, 2020 at (Timmerman’s) Quality Inn, 7787 Timmerman Dr, East Dubuque, IL 61025.  Visitation starts at 1pm with a light luncheon.  Services will begin at 3pm.  Everyone who attends is invited and encouraged to share their stories about Aiden.  It is requested that guests come wearing video game, Cubs, or Hawkeye gear, cat shirts or the color blue.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be directed to Max House, at 2784 Central Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001. The donations will be used in a program that is being established at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City. The goal is to gift children on the Oncology Floor with the same Squishmallow plushies that brought Aiden so much comfort and joy.

One last thought that Aiden would want you to have: Kindness is free, sprinkle that stuff everywhere.

Arrangements entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Betty J. Ingles Miller

Betty Jane Ingles Miller, 71, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, February 16, 2020, at her home, surrounded by her family.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Friday, February 21, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be prior to the service from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Bridgeport Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Betty Jane Manders was born on June 20, 1948 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Ervin and Bernice (Speak) Manders. She grew up in Dubuque and attended Dubuque schools. She married James F. “Jesse” Ingles on June 26, 1965 at Asbury, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Ginny and Jimmy. “Jesse” preceded her in death on February 6, 1999. She later married Ronald Owen Miller on May 18, 2002 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Betty had worked various jobs throughout her life including working as a salesperson, bartender and most notably as a supervisor and cook at Kentucky Fried Chicken in Maquoketa.

Betty was a former member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa. She enjoyed reading, drinking and collecting Pepsi products along with Betty Boop memorabilia, dancing and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Ronald O. Miller of Maquoketa, IA; children, Ginny (Vern) Mangler of Delmar, IA, and Jimmy (Amy) Ingles of Maquoketa, IA; 5 grandchildren, Ashley (fiancé Raymond Dosland) Bayles, Curtis (Courtney) Mangler, Trevor Mangler, Nicholas Ingles, and Hannah Ingles; 3 great-grandchildren, Thane, Maddie and Owen; a brother Tom (Lee Ann) Frost of Dubuque, IA; sisters, Kay Nelson, Carol (Dale) Dieters, and Sheila (Jerry) Shireman, all of Dubuque, IA, and Mary Frost of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Mickey and Kenny Manders, and her first husband James F. “Jesse” Ingles.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Betty Jane Ingles Miller memorial fund has been established.

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

Irma L. Schumacher

Irma Lillian Schumacher died Feb. 13, 2020 at the Israel House Hospice in Ames, Iowa. Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Saturday, February 22, 2020 at St. John Lutheran Church in St. Donatus; family will greet friends 9:30 am until service time at the church. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery in St. Donatus.

Irma was born August 2, 1934 on the family farm outside of St. Donatus, Iowa to Herman and Alvina (Knief) Hueneke. She was the youngest grandchild of Dietrich and Rebecca Hueneke who were early settlers of the St. Donatus area. She was baptized in St. John’s Lutheran Church on August 30, 1934 and her godmothers were Lillian Knief and Amellia Hueneke. She was raised on the family farm which was within walking distance of St. John’s and was confirmed there on June 29, 1947.

Irma attended a Kindergarten – 8th grade country school located four miles east of her home. As a student in Jackson County, Iowa she attended eighth grade graduation in the county seat of Maquoketa. Irma attended high school in Bellevue, Iowa and graduated in 1951. That fall she went to Dubuque to work at the Iowa Oil Co. as a clerical worker. Her boss would later become her father-in-law.

Irma married George Edward Schumacher on June 14, 1953 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. In March 1954 George and Irma moved to Waukon, Iowa where they farmed for three years. George went to work for Farm Bureau in 1957 and they moved to Cresco and later Chariton, Iowa. In 1961 they bought a farm near Cresco and in 1962 they purchased their first registered Angus heifers. George supplemented their farm income by working for SCS and the Arco plant in Bonair, Iowa. In 1971 George and Irma purchased the Farm Discount Store in Cresco and sold feed products. Irma was the bookkeeper and usually worked in the store. In 1980 they sold the store.

In 1984 Irma took classes to become a Certified Nurses Aide and began working at the Cresco Care Center, working predominantly nights. She retired from that job in 2000, after more than 15 years of faithful service. George and Irma moved to Ames in 2010 to live at The Rose senior living apartments. George passed away in 2011 and Irma continued living at The Rose until May, 2019 when she transferred to The Bickford Assisted Living in Ames.

Irma was an excellent seamstress and quilter during her lifetime. She made many clothes for not only herself but her three daughters while they were growing up and taught them to sew as well. She also enjoyed gardening while living at the farm near Cresco and was an avid reader, having read the Bible numerous times.

She is survived by her four children Rebecca Sawyer of Bassett, Neb; Mark and wife Susan Schumacher of Wolsey, S.D.; Mitzi Schumacher of Lexington, Ky.; Johanna Schumacher and Chad Cook of Boone, Iowa; five grandchildren, and one great grandson, along with nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband George, sisters Mildred Davis and husband Cletus and Marie Hoffman and husband Paul, brother Aaron Hueneke, her parents Herman and Alvina Hueneke, her father and mother-in-law George and Helen Schumacher, brother-in-law William Schumacher, and son-in-law Arlen Sawyer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Stephanie A. Ohnesorge

Stephanie A. Ohnesorge, age 47 of Dubuque, Iowa completed her earthly journey on January 14, 2020 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. To celebrate Stephanie’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Stephanie’s family.

Stephanie was born on March 8,1972 in Iowa City, Iowa, the first of three children to Steven and Karen (Enga) Ohnesorge.  After graduating high school, she worked in food service management (The Ryan House, Papa Sarducci’s, Wendy’s) while obtaining her Bachelors degree from the University of Dubuque, starting with Respiratory Therapy and ending with graphic design & communication. She then spent several years working for State Farm Insurance, and then 9 years with Teleperformance for McGraw Hill (college textbook support).

Her passionate desire was to advocate for those in need and she found opportunities by sitting on the Operation New View Board and volunteering with the Republican Party where she was given a prestigious award by Former Gov. Terry Branstad.

Stephanie suffered a stroke 2 years ago in January, making it through with her mind intact but serious health challenges. Her strong will helped her persevere, looking to have a productive life with the goal of helping others, however, her heart failed her and she passed from this life into the arms of her loving Heavenly Father. Her earthly struggles are over and she is in a joyful place with God and we, her family, have peace knowing that.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Stephanie include,

her parents,
Steven and Karen Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa;

her children,
Erin Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa
and Thomas Frey, Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandson,
Parker Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa;

her siblings,
Leigh (Jaki Schaefer) Ohnesorge, East Dubuque, Illinois,
and Ryan (Stacy Mess) Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandmother,
Beverly McDonald, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with many extended family and friends.

Stephanie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Robert (Marguerite) Ohnesorge and Claude McDonald.

In lieu of flowers, a Stephanie A. Ohnesorge memorial fund has been established.

Stephanie’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at MercyOne in Dubuque and the University of Iowa Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Julie M. Funke

Julie Marie (McAllister) Funke, 58, of Greeley, Iowa, embraced the light of God on Sunday, February 16, 2020, after a hard-fought battle with metastatic breast cancer. Her determination and resiliency helped her translate an 18-month life expectancy into 7-½ treasured years spent with family and friends. Julie, the second of seven children, was born in Dubuque to Thomas and Marlene (Berthel) McAllister on March 23, 1961. She and her siblings grew up in a loving and faith-filled family on the McAllister farm in rural Earlville.

Following graduation from Beckman High School in Dyersville, Julie graduated from Capri School of Hair Design in Dubuque. Her first hairstyling job was in Sue Becker’s shop in Dyersville. She later worked for a time at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids, where she made many friends. Finally, Julie worked at Studio 117 in Manchester for more than 17 years until she retired in September 2019. Julie had a gift, not only for cutting, coloring, and shaping hairstyles to perfection, but she made everyone who sat in her chair feel happy, relaxed, and very special.

Julie married Dan Funke on July 27, 1985, in Manchester. The couple lived for more than 34 years on the Funke family farm near Greeley, where they raised their three sons. Julie devoted herself to raising and teaching her boys to be loving, strong, honorable, and hardworking, and Julie was always present to cheer on her sons in their extracurricular and sporting events.

Julie’s life is documented by the scores of friends she made throughout the years. It can be said that “a stranger was a friend Julie hadn’t yet met.” She is best known for her sparkling eyes, constant smile, optimistic outlook, and infectious laugh, and all who knew Julie will say that she was a friend for life and a role model for strength, courage, and unconditional love. Julie opened her arms, her heart, and her home to anyone who wished to enter.

Throughout her life, Julie embraced both joy and challenges. In 2012, Julie was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer after having beaten the original diagnosis nine years earlier. Thanks to successful treatment, Julie was blessed to celebrate her three sons’ marriages as well as the lives of her three grandchildren. She treasured times with her friends and extended family, but her smile was never brighter, nor was her heart more filled with love, than when she was with Parker, Logan, and Ella.

Left to cherish Julie’s memory are her husband Dan; her sons, Travis (Courtney) Funke of Iowa City and their children Logan and Ella, Austin (Hailey) Funke of Elkader and their son Parker, and Drew (Abigail) Funke of Lisbon. Julie is also survived by her cherished mother, Marlene McAllister of Dyersville; her siblings, Vicki (Jerry) Dunkel of Dyersville, Randy (Doris) McAllister of Earlville, Beth (David) Feldmann of Center Point, Christine (Steve) Herbers of New Vienna, Ron (Annette) McAllister of Marion, and Rick (Karla) McAllister of Marion. Julie’s several nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews will miss their beloved aunt.

Greeting her in Heaven were her beloved father, Thomas McAllister; mother- and father-in-law, Jane and Francis Funke; and her infant niece, Amber Dunkel.

Our family wishes to thank the nurses and caregivers of Regional Medical Center Hospice of Manchester for their loving support and care.

Memorials may be designated to Hall-Perinne Cancer Center or Regional Medical Center Hospice.

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

Mass of Christian Burial:  11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2020, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, with Rev. Gabriel Anderson presiding.

Visitation:  2:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Thursday at the church.

Private Family Scripture Service: 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester.

Interment:  St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery – Greeley, Iowa

Nancy J. Pregler

Nancy J. (Hilbert) Pregler, age 83, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:20 a.m., on Friday, February 14, 2020, at her home, surrounded by her loving family and her loyal dog, Sugar.  To celebrate Nancy’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m., until 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m. To honor Nancy’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 19, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Nancy was born on May 14, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the only child of Frank and Olive (Frommelt) Hilbert.

Nancy grew up in Dubuque and lived her whole life in the Eagle Point area where she made many great friends.  Nancy attended Holy Trinity Grade School and was a life long member of Holy Trinity Parish.  She also attended Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque.

Nancy was united in marriage to Walter A. Pregler on September 17, 1955.  Together they raised seven sons and were blessed with 65 wonderful years of marriage.  Nancy was a stay at home mom and homemaker while raising her children.  Later in life she was happily employed for several years at the Walsh Stores.  Nancy volunteered at Holy Trinity Grade School with the lunch program and running the library, as well helping out at Mercy Hospital and working the polls on election days.

Nancy was an avid bowler and enjoyed league bowling.  She was an active member of Holy Trinity Church, including the parish choir, Rosary Society and Mothers Club.  Nancy enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs, Green Bay Packers and figure skating.  She collected cardinal figurines and loved when they showed up at the bird feeder.  In later years she enjoyed card games, dominoes and going out to lunch with the girls.  She was frequently seen just relaxing on the deck, reading a good book, and eating a few gremlins.  Most of all, Nancy loved her family and was happiest when around her seven boys, each one claiming to be her favorite!

Those left to cherish Nancy’s memory include

her husband,
Walter Pregler, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Steven (Janelle) Pregler, Dubuque, IA,
Michael (Joann) Pregler, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Christine) Pregler, Hampton, VA,
Tom Pregler, Dubuque, IA,
David (Kim) Pregler, Dubuque, IA
and John (Cheryl) Pregler, Dubuque, IA;

a daughter-in-law,
Donna (Michael) Foster, Carolina Beach, NC;

her grandchildren,
Brandon (SaRee) Pregler, Michelle (Brian) Huss, Mike (Anna) Pregler, Carey (Troy) Raab, Allan (Melissa) Pregler, Nick (Allison) Pregler, Justin (Melissa) Pregler, Ryan (Andrea) Pregler, Branden (Morgan) Pregler, Hayley (TJ) Habel, Shelby Pregler and Miranda Pregler;

her great-grandchildren,
Nolan, Sienna, Aleah, Raena, Dylan, Tarver, Jacob, Leah, Scarlett, Lucy, Clara, Benjamin, Kyra, Jonah, Mason, Lucas, Colton, Kenslie and Jaxton;

her great great-granddaughter,
Elizabeth;

and her special friends,
Marlene Melssen and Barb Bernhardt.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her youngest son, James Pregler; and a grandson, Scott.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Cindy of Hospice of Dubuque for her compassionate end of life care.  Also thanks to Carey Jo Raab and Joann Pregler for their time and loving care, making Nancy’s last few days as comfortable as possible.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

Terry D. Wedewer

Terry D. Wedewer, 51, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Monday, February 10, 2020 at Saint Louis University Hospital, Saint Louis, Missouri.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, February 19 at Saint Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna with the Rev. Dennis Quint and Rev. Carl Ries officiating.  Burial will be in the Saint Boniface Cemetery.  Family and friends may come for visitation at St. Boniface Church after 9:00 AM until the services begin on February 19.

Terry was born March 14, 1968 in Dubuque, the son of David and Joan (Koelker) Wedewer.  He grew up on the family farm in New Vienna and was very proud of his family roots.  He attended Beckman High School in Dyersville where he graduated in 1986 and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Loras College in Dubuque.  Terry was an avid athlete and sports fan.  He especially loved the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs.  He was a proud member of the 1986 Beckman state champion baseball team.  The success of his three children was his pride and joy, and he spent many years as their coach in various sports.  Terry will be fondly remembered for his trademark easy smile and friendly disposition.

Surviving are his loving mother, Joan, of Dubuque, three children: Jacqui Wedewer of Brooklyn, NY, Morgan Wedewer of Madison, WI and Drew Wedewer of Minneapolis, MN, three siblings: Kim (Tom) Tegeler of Dyersville, Kurt (Sarah) Wedewer and Cindy (Brad) Olberding, both of Dubuque, and many nieces and nephews.

Terry is preceded in death by his father, David, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

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

Robert C. Witte

Robert “Bob” C. Witte, 82, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, February 14, 2020 after a brief illness, at Manor Care.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2020, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, February 17, at the funeral home. Rev. Dianne Grace of Hospice of Dubuque will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6, of which Bob was a member. Interment will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery.

Bob was born September 18, 1937 in Dubuque, the son of Carl and Edna (Nellis) Witte. He married Mabel Fiedler on June 4, 1960 in Dubuque. Bob served his country with the U.S. Army from 1960- 1966, during which time he was a lead tank driver, and guarded the Berlin Wall.

He was employed in his younger years at the Telegraph Herald, Telegraphics, and Donovan Construction, and retired at age 72  as head pressman from Brown’s Publishing.

Bob loved the outdoors, and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He could fix anything, and was always there to help out family, friends, or friends of friends. His daughters fondly remember Sunday night spaghetti dinners cooked by Bob, after which he would take them on a ride to Eagle Point Park and Dairy Queen. Bob loved to tease his kids and grandkids. Mabel and Bob enjoyed traveling, taking trips to the casino, road trips, and going out to eat, especially at Sunshine Restaurant. Playing cards with their best friends, Dale and Lee Ehlers was always a highlight for Bob and Mabel.

Bob is survived by his wife, Mabel; four daughters, Beth (Tom) Keith of Dubuque, Debbie (Steve) Walsh of Panama City, FL, Lori (Wayde) Reuter of Dubuque, and Kathy (Dave) Vaassen of Dubuque; his grandchildren, Carl, Tammy, and Laura Keith, Julie and Joseph (Jessie) Walsh, Ashley (Thomas) Burns, Katie (Jon) and Austin (Ariel) Merfeld, Mark (Nakila), Mitch, Nick, and Rachel (Chase) Reuter, Marcus (Kari) Vaassen, Susan (Luke) Vaassen Rossman, Jessica (Trent) and Matthew Vaassen; many great grandchildren, his sister Charlotte Vanderbilt of Dubuque; his in-laws, Walt Hedrick of Dubuque, Rosie Ries of Dubuque, Ernie (Dee Anna) Fiedler of Clinton, IA, and Joan Fiedler of Clinton, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Edna Hedrick and Frieda (Henry) Suverkrup; two brothers in law, Ray Fiedler and Glenn Ries; and a sister in law, Dorothy Fielder.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for later donation to charity.

The family would like to thank the 5th floor staff at Finley Hospital, Hospice of Dubuque, and Manor Care, as well as Dr. Haas and staff for their many years of care.

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

Helene Schoenhard

Helene Schoenhard, 89, of Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque and Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at Holy Trinity Church in Scales Mound, with Fr. Howard Barch officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday at the Church.  The Miller & Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is serving the family.

Helene was born on July 3, 1930 in Janesville, Wisconsin, the daughter of Howard and Frances (Brady) Hillemeyer.  She was united in marriage to Ralph G. “Bud” Schoenhard on July 18, 1953 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Shullsburg, WI.  He preceded her in death on June 18, 2016.

Helene grew up in Shullsburg, WI.  After graduating from Shullsburg High School, she spent five years in Rockford, IL doing secretarial work while living with her aunts, Ann and Sally and her Grandma Brady.

After their marriage, she and Bud lived in Chicago, IL, where she worked at Putnan Publishing Company.  In 1957, they moved to Scales Mound where she made rearing her six children her number one priority.  Later in life, she became a dedicated social worker for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

Helene and Bud did extensive traveling throughout their 63 years of marriage, including all 50 States, many foreign countries, Ireland being their favorite. She loved watching the Packers with her family. As well as, shopping and going to the movies. Helene loved decorating and furnishing her home with antiques, many of which she refurbished.

Helene was very proud of her Irish family heritage.  Discovering her and Bud’s family genealogy became her passion, spending countless hours in researching and locating cemeteries.

She enjoyed providing an infinite number of delicious meals at holidays and family gatherings; however, her greatest joy in life was spending time with her children and her grandchildren.

Surviving are six children, Jill (Chuck) Staab of Platteville, WI, James (Jeanne) Schoenhard of Mercer, WI, Joan (Steve) Efken of Miromar Lakes, FL, Jon (Lisa) Schoenhard of Stockton, IL, Jean Schoenhard of Kieler, WI, and Jennifer (Kirk) Friederick of Dubuque; 12-grandchildren, Sandra (Rick) Pohle, Bob (Katie), Michael (Mary) and Nick (Jennifer) Schoenhard, Lori Ann (Mike) Simmons, Steve (Abbey) Efken, Jr., Ellie (fiancé Christie Goelz) Efken, Mallory (Tyler) Hesselbacher, Alex Schmieder, Maggie, Ethan and Evan Friederick; 10-great grandchildren, Jack Swenson, Cara, Sawyer and Lila Schoenhard, Jameson and Madden Efken, Jeremiah Schoenhard, Kallie and Aubrie Schoenhard and Charlotte Simmons; and a sister Mary Jean (Ted) Vaughn of Normal, IL.

Helene was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Frances, and a sister Joan Hillemeyer.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to give thanks to the nurses and staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the special care given to their mother.

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

Joan M. Kilburg

Joan M. (Chambers) Kilburg, 66, of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2020.  Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  A visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2020 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Tuesday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Joan was born June 4, 1953 in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of Orval and Gertrude (Jepsen) Chambers.  She went to school in Goose Lake and worked at Clinton County Care for many years.  Joan married James Kilburg on August 16, 1986 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  She was very active in the American Legion Auxiliary, Bellevue Heritage Days, and Iowa National Guard Women’s Club.  Joan enjoyed cooking, baking, and spending time with her husband.  She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Jim; a step-son, Michael Kilburg, a step-grandson, Nathan Kilburg; siblings, Michael (Paula) Chambers, Jane Chambers, June (Russ) Mielke, and Judy (Rob) Solon; brothers and sisters in-law, Wayne (Kathy) Kilburg, John (Deanna) Kilburg, and Jean Ann Permison; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents; father and mother in-law, Ed and Marie Kilburg; and a nephew, Doug Kilburg.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County in Joan’s memory.

Online condolences may be left at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Frank J. Batka, Jr.

Frank J. Batka, Jr., age 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, and formerly of Chicago, Illinois, completed his earthly journey on February 9, 2020 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury, Iowa, with his loving wife by his side. To celebrate Frank’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2020 at the Grand Meadows Clubhouse, 5300 Grand Meadows Drive, Asbury, Iowa, with a memorial service being held at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. There will also be a Celebration of Life held from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at the Lone Tree Manor, 7730 North Milwaukee Avenue, Niles, Illinois, which includes a memorial service being held at 2:00 p.m. followed by a traditional Polish meal. Burial will be in the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Frank’s family.

Frank was born on November 12, 1933 in Chicago, Illinois, a son to Frank and Anastazia (Jerka) Batka, Sr. He spent his formative years surrounded by his large, loving family and after graduating from Lane Tech High School, he proudly joined the U.S. Army to honorably serve his country during the Korean War. After his duty was complete, he returned home to marry the love of his life, Patricia Schmalz, and to begin his career working in the HVAC industry. He spent over 40 years working as a Superintendent with Zack Heating and Ventilation in order to provide for his family. Frank was committed to all that he immersed himself in; whether at work, at home, or with the Boy Scouts and the Cavalier Drum and Bugle Corps. Frank was an original member of the Cavaliers and his devotion carried on through all three of his children. Frank possessed an incredible work ethic and a wonderful sense of humor. We are going to miss Frank deeply and dearly as we search for peace in his absence. He made friends wherever he went and made a positive imprint on the world around him. We trust that the Lord has plans for good in all He does, and we will now trust our broken hearts to His grace and merciful hand until we are reunited with our dear husband, father, grandfather and friend. Thank you, Frank, for leaving a legacy worth carrying forward, and for not doing it because you felt that you had to, but rather because that was simply who you are!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Frank include:

his beautiful bride of 62 years,
Patricia “Pat” Batka, Asbury, Iowa;

his 3 loving children,
Kimberly “Kim” (Steve) Myers, West lake, Ohio,
Daniel “Dan” (Kari) Batka, Batavia, Illinois,
and Jeffrey “Jeff” (Diane) Batka, Glenview, Illinois;

his 5 adored grandchildren,
Lauren (fiancé  Brian Dowling) Myers, Eric Myers, Brock Batka, Madelyn Batka and Ryan Batka;

his sister,
Dorothy (Bob) Fey, Ohio;

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

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his twin sons in infancy; his grandson, Paul Samuel “Sam” Myers; and his 9 siblings, Lilian (Stanley) Smolen, Harry Batka, Joe Batka, Chester (Dorothy) Batka, Rita (Marc) Mott, Mary Ann (Richard “Dick”) Nickels, Eleanor (Cliff) Gross and 1 brother in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, a general donation to honor Frank J. Batka, Jr., can be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org

Frank’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Frank and his family.

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