Obituaries Archive

Jeanette C. Hochberger

Jeanette C. Hochberger, age 90, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center.  To honor Jeanette’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10:15 a.m., on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Jeanette’s family.

Jeanette was born on September 7, 1934, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Clarence and Callista (Palm) Theis.

Jeanette was united in marriage to the love of her life, Jack, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on March 20, 1954.  They were married for 58 years until Jack’s passing in 2012.  Jeanette enjoyed camping, reading a good book, playing her piano, crossword puzzles (with Karen & Denny), and most of all playing Euchre with family and friends.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Jeanette’s memory include

3 sons,
James (Lynn) Hochberger,
Michael (Jan) Hochberger
and John (Jennifer) Hochberger, all of Dubuque, IA;

a daughter-in-law,
Janine (Dave) McQuiggin, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Jeni Ahern, Joe Hochberger, Nicholas (Ashley) Hochberger, Sara (Zach) Chapman and Andy Hochberger;

her great-grandchildren,
Lyssie (Avery) Luedeman, Reagan, Jack and Isla Hochberger;

and a brother-in-law,
Glen Hedrick, Eldridge, IA.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Hochberger; 2 sons, David and Paul Hochberger; a grandson, Josh Hochberger; and a sister, Adel Hedrick.

Jeanette’s family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of both Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and the outstanding care they have provided for Jeanette.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Jeanette’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jeanette Hochberger Family.

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

Robert J. Kramer

Robert Joseph Kramer, 92, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 25th, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. The burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.  on Thursday, October 24th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where there will be a prayer service at 3:30 p.m.

Robert was born September 20, 1932, in Dubuque IA, the son of Ray and Agnes (Gotto) Kramer.  He married Donnabelle Douglas on June 20, 1958.  Robert served his country in the US Army from 1953 to 1955, first trained as a mechanic but then became the base clerk as they found out he could type 34 words a minute. Bob was the first Certified Kitchen Designer in Dubuque and loved to offer his advice to his children about the best way to lay out a kitchen for maximum use and enjoyment.  He loved working with his customers and was dedicated to delivering the best service.

Bob was very involved in the community and loved to meet people and find a connection. He was a member of the Moose Lodge, VFW Post, American Legion Post, past Exalted Ruler of the Elk’s club and a Commodore of the Dubuque Boat Club. He loved socializing, going out to dinner and especially dancing with his beautiful wife.  Bob was also a Master Gardener and was very proud of his garden and flower beds.

He loved attending his grandchildren’s activities and telling stories of the Kramer farm that he and his brother Joe worked at during their summers off school.  Dad could fix almost anything and would help anyone who called with repairing a house, building a garage or deck, or fixing their car. He believed in the value of putting in a good day’s work, and also loved any reason to host a party at the Kramer home.  He and Donnabelle loved sharing their home with friends and family.

Bob is survived by his seven children who will miss him greatly: Jolee R. (Kevin) Arensdorf of Montrose, CO; Robin R. (Ron) Bauerly of Macomb, IL; Paula D. (Roger Welsh) Kramer of Dubuque, IA; Lynne R. Kramer of Dubuque, IA; Tracy S. (Jeff) Gallery of Stilwell, KS; Robert R. (Lisa) Kramer of Mantorville, MN; and Chad D. of Dubuque, IA.;  15 beloved grandchildren: Nicole (Chris) Rogers; Chelsea (Calvin Gracey) Arensdorf; Taylor (Will) McArtor; Shannon (Nathan) Orris; Thomas Bauerly; Desirae (Adam) Gillies; Lindsey (Chris) Grue; Cole Welsh; Dakota (Brittney) Puls; Haylee (Matthew) Hopper; Nolan Gallery; Keegan Gallery; Collin Gallery; Nathaniel Kramer; April Polansky; 17 great grandchildren; two sisters, Mary (Bob) Hood and Karen Seeley, one brother, Joe (Judy) Kramer, one sister-in-law, Pat Kramer, and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donnabelle, his parents Ray and Agnes Kramer, his brother Bill, his sister and her husband, Marjorie and Rich Sieverding, brother-in-law, Jim Seeley and his father and mother-in-law, Herbert and Benita Douglas.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Sacred Heart Church of Dubuque, Iowa.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, the VA nurses and care workers; Dianne Stecklein and her staff at No Place Like Home for her team’s support over the past few years, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion during the last few weeks of his journey.

Mary Ann Bries

Mary Ann Bries, 88, of Urbana, Iowa passed away Thursday October 17, 2024 at The Gardens of Cedar Rapids, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024, with a Vigil service and Rosary at 1:30 p.m. at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Monday morning from 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 28, 2024, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, with burial immediately following in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Mary Ann was born on June 8, 1936 in Petersburg, IA, daughter of Victor and Lucille (Koelker) Vaske. She graduated as valedictorian of St. Boniface high school. In 1958, she married Roger Bries of Luxemburg, IA. The couple later divorced.

Survivors include her children: Randy Bries of Urbana, Iowa, Cheryl (Dan) Heffernen of Altoona, Iowa, Gary (Susan) Bries of Jackson, Wisconsin, Anita (Michael) Kerper of Cottage Grove, Minnesota; grandchildren: Jessica (Dave) Gogerty, Melissa Heffernen, Brian, Jennifer (Luc), and Julie Bries; three great-grandchildren: James, Callan, and Savannah Gogerty; siblings: Dave (Mary Lou) Vaske of Laramie, WY, Arnold (Jane) Vaske of Madison, WI, Rosalie (Joe) Wolfe of Hiawatha, IA, Mark (Doris) Vaske of North Liberty, IA, Mike (Xiomara) Vaske of Asheville, NC; in-laws: Bill Kluesner, Rose Mary Vaske, Diane Vaske.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Phyllis; siblings: Marge (Lawrence) Willie, Judith (Harold) Meyers, Ellouise Kluesner, Fred Vaske, Adrian Vaske.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

John L. Casey

John Loren Casey was born on March 6, 1939 in Cascade, Iowa and died peacefully after a short illness on October 16, 2024 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.   John was the sixth of nine children born to James W. Casey and Mary Alberta Mahan who farmed outside of Cascade.  He attended Brown Elementary School, graduating from St. Martin High School in 1957 and Loras College in 1961.  After a short time as a caseworker for the Cook County Department of Public Welfare in Chicago, he entered Mount Saint Bernard Seminary in Dubuque Iowa in 1963 and was ordained a Deacon in 1967.

As a Deacon, John served St. Joseph parish in Farley, St. Joseph Parish in Waterloo, and taught at Columbus High School in Waterloo.  Ordained to the priesthood in 1974, he then served St. Joseph Parish in Marion, and Immaculate Conception Parish in Cedar Rapids while he taught religion at Regis High School.

John enjoyed a love of flying from childhood and became a pilot as an adult.  In 1976, he moved to Westerly, Rhode Island to be a flight instructor for a fixed base operator.  He returned to Iowa a year later and flew freight for SMB airlines and later for Beyer Aviation of Dubuque.

John married Mary Kay Nicolay of Oelwein in 1980 and they settled in Des Moines, welcoming their son, Peter, into their family in 1984.  He continued his airline career flying out of Des Moines for American Central Airline and Airfreight Express.   He began flying for Great Lakes Aviation of Spencer in 1984 and from there retired in 2003.  In his retirement he was employed as a substitute teacher for both the Des Moines and Ankeny Public Schools.

John was an astute student of military history, visiting most of the major battlefields of the Civil War with his college and seminary friends on motorcycle trips.  He and Peter tramped about the battlefields of Europe: Verdun, Waterloo, Agincourt, Normandy, Mortain, Bastogne, Dunkirk, and the Failise Gap as well as the battlefield at Hastings.

In his own words, John “rejoiced for all those he met, worked with, and loved in his lifetime and asks forgiveness from those he hurt. It is with profound gratitude that he was given this great adventure accompanied with wonder and curiosity. He remained especially grateful for the fascination of flight, which–along with John Gilipsie Magee Jr.–offered him the opportunity to ‘…reach out and touch the face of God’.

John is predeceased by his parents, sister Venita, brothers Duane and Glenn and twin sisters who died in infancy.  He will be loved and remembered by his son, Peter, and his ex-spouse and companion, Mary Kay Casey.

A Visitation will be held Sunday, October 27, 4-8 pm, at Reiff Funeral Home, Cascade, Iowa with the Funeral Mass on Monday, October 28,  2024 at 11 am, St. Matthias Catholic Church in Cascade, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  A dinner will follow.

A celebration of John’s life will be held in Des Moines at a later date.

An online Video tribute may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffunerlahomeinc.com

Carl G. Scherbring

Carl G. Scherbring, 60, of Colesburg, Iowa passed away Friday, October 18, 2024 at his home.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, October 25, 2024 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, in Dyersville, Iowa, with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate.

Carl was born August 20, 1964, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert and Anna Mae (Oberbroeckling) Scherbring.  He graduated from Western Dubuque in 1982 and later earned a degree from NITI as a Diesel Mechanic.  Carl married Mary Lueken on August 8, 2015 in Colesburg, Iowa.

Carl drove truck for many years and had his own businesses of CGS Trucking and Coastal Ground Service. In his later years, he enjoyed managing CMS Properties Apartments in Colesburg. He enjoyed riding his Harley, golfing, playing cards, fishing, side by side rides, attending the races, and snowmobiling. He collected toy tractors and shared this passion with his grandchildren. Carl was generous, often helping others. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his nieces and nephews held a special place in his heart. He was a dear friend to many and will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his wife, Mary and her children, especially Stacey (Luke) Rucker and their children, Cruz, Zuri, and Reez; mother, Annie Scherbring of Dyersville; siblings: Dale (Janet) Scherbring of Cedar Rapids, Mark (Liz) Scherbring of Dyersville, Joan Musich of Westphalia, Dean (Linda) Scherbring of Manchester, Jill Scherbring of Dyersville, Gwen (Jeff) Lewis of Dubuque; parents-in-law: Paul and Luella Lueken of Colesburg; in-laws: Carol (Gary) Timmons of Colesburg, Kathe (Garry) Piotrowski of Peosta, Jim (Lynn) Lueken of Edgewood, Ron (Kate) Lueken of Peosta; and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Scherbring, aunts and uncles: Eileen (Joe) Stephan, Shirley Oberbroeckling, Carolyn Oberbroeckling, Walt (Mary) Scherbring, Les Scherbring, Pete Oberbroeckling, Hank Harter, and Hugo Oberbroeckling.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

David R. Schoenhard

David R. Schoenhard, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on October 18, 2024, at home, while in the loving presence of wife.  To honor David’s life, a private family service is being held at the First Presbyterian Church.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving David’s family.

David was born on January 16, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Miles S. and Geraldine E. (Pitz) Schoenhard.  He was truly gifted with an intrinsic ability to get along with anyone who walked into the room and this blended perfectly with his career choices.  Many folks will remember David as the hotel manager at the Dubuque Inn, rubbing elbows with the likes of Sylvester Stallone and Kevin Costner while they were in town for movie shoots.  He enjoyed making our out of town guests feel right at home and may have even allowed them to win a game of two of pool if truth be known.  David spent his final working years with Rainbo Oil as well until health issues nudged him into retirement in the end.  David was as likeable as he was motivated to give his best in everything he did and in that he found great peace at the end of each day.

David knew how to enjoy and make the most of his time away from work as well.  If the weather was cooperating and time allowed, there was no doubt that burning up a few miles on his Harley was going to make the number one spot on his list of priorities for the day.  David treasured the freedom of the wind rolling by him on the open road and it’s difficult to imagine a happier place in his life other than with his loved ones by his side whenever possible.  David was also a Dubuque history enthusiast at heart.  Countless hours were spent not only researching and enjoying the past around here, but participating in the events as well.  He had fond memories of attending St. Patrick’s School as a child and winning the Best Goldfish Award at the Jackson Park Goldfish Competition.  He would even occasionally share specific memories when the moment and audience were right such as his adventures into the underground caves during his youth where the Kennedy Mall now stands today.  David embraced life fully and until his health battles began to take their toll, each day was an opportunity to shine his light on those around him.  We will miss David both deeply and dearly upon his sudden absence from our physical lives today.  His love and legacy remain, even as our hearts regretfully communicate that they cannot imagine another moment with this limitless pain encompassing them.  Thank you, David, for simply being the you that everyone around you needed in their lives and may the Lord keep you safe and secure in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of David include,

his loving wife,
Paula J. McNally, Dubuque, IA;

his five children;

his two grandchildren;

his two sisters,
Diane (Donald) McVay, Rewey, WI,
and Deborah (Mark) Johnson, Vinita, OK;

his aunt;
Shirley (Mel) Maas, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

David was preceded in death by his parents.

David’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Glen W. Henton

Maquoketa Legend and One-Of-A-Kind, Glen W. “Red” Henton, 104, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, October 18, 2024, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

Red Henton was not only a man but a myth and a legend, embodying the essence of what it means to live a full and vibrant life. Over the course of his 104 incredible years, he achieved so much that it’s nearly impossible to encapsulate.

Red was born Sept. 3, 1920, the youngest of three sons born to a couple named Shields. He was given the name F.J., after Dr. F.J. Swift, the longtime Maquoketa physician who delivered him.  A short time later, F. J. Shields became Glen William Henton, the adopted son of George and Nellie Henton.  He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School and then signed a contract to play baseball for the Chicago White Sox.  However, once he reported to the farm team practice site in Grand Forks, North Dakota, he changed his mind about a career in baseball.  He eventually settled into a job as rural mail carrier in Jackson County, from which he retired.

He married Bernice Kokemuller on August 30, 1941 in Kahoka, Missouri.  December brought the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and by June of 1942, Red was in uniform for the U.S. Army-Air Force that sent him to the China-Burma-India Theater. He was there for 30 months as a member of the 490th Bomber Squadron.  Returning home from the war, Red was able to see for the first time his daughter Judy, who was then 2 years old. Their second daughter, Nancy, came along four years later.

Red’s interest in music and entertaining began at an early age. When he was in high school, he and his two brothers formed a band named the Shields Brothers.  They signed with a booking company from Des Moines and performed all over the country.  They later formed the Oklahoma Cowboys and played cowboy country music.  Eventually his brothers moved on, and Bernice joined her husband on keyboards while Red played guitar and harmonica. They began playing at area venues, notably the Rendezvous Supper Club in Maquoketa on Wednesday nights and the Heights Supper Club in Monticello on Thursday and Friday nights. Red also operated the Lakehurst Supper Club in Maquoketa for several years, playing there regularly.

Red’s introduction to pitching horseshoes came during childhood summers.  He was throwing ringers at 7 years old, and when he was 14, he entered a competition held at the Maquoketa ballpark and threw 94 out of 100 ringers. When he was 40 years old, he went to Des Moines and entered the state tournament for the first time. He competed on the first day of the tournament, but then left after learning his birth mother had died. He returned the next year, took the state championship and went on to win it 19 times.  From there he competed for the world championship, and usually finished in the top eight or 10.  He was named the No. 1 horseshoe player in the United States in 1977. He was the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association Intermediate World Champion in 1985 and 1986 and was voted into the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame in 1987.  The game for which he is most remembered occurred in 1965, when he and Ray Martin of Philo, Illinois, were locked in a duel in the world tournament. The game continued for some 2½ hours before Red finally outlasted Martin, throwing 175 ringers to Martin’s 174. The feat was listed for several years in the Guinness Book of World Records for most ringers in a single game, a record that still stands.

For many years, Red could be found on summer days in his flat-bottom fishing boat on the Mississippi River below the lock and dam in Bellevue, pulling in catfish or trolling for walleyes.

Through the years Red was generous with his time, talent and resources.  A few of Red’s honors he received from the community included being named grand marshal of the Jackson County Fair parade in 2003. The Maquoketa Rotary Club awarded him an honorary Paul Harris Fellowship. American Legion Timber City Post 75 honored him for 50 years of service and the O’Connor-Regenwether Chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars gave him a life membership.  In 2020, September 3rd was named Glen W. “Red” Henton Day in Maquoketa.  The Fulton Community Church, where Red had been a member of for over 89 years, had a special meaning to him.  Red and Bernice played an instrumental role in raising funds to get the 123-year-old church building moved, saving it from demolition as part of the U.S. 61 four-lane expansion project in the 1990s, and getting it renovated.

In every role he held — devoted husband to the remarkable Bernice, loving father to Judy and Nancy, and a legendary grandfather to his grandkids, great-grandkids, and even great-great-grandkids — he enriched countless lives with his wisdom, humor, and love.

An article penned by Douglas Melvold for his 100th birthday (Sept. 3, 2020) paints a fitting picture of the extraordinary life he led. Red was a world champion horseshoe pitcher, whose talent and achievements earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. He was an entertainer, adored for his singing across various venues, and a master fisherman who knew all the tricks to catch Mississippi River catfish and walleye. His service in World War II, combined with a career that included delivering mail and advocating for his fellow workers, showcased his commitment to both community and family.

Red’s adventurous spirit shone through in everything he did, whether it was eloping to Missouri to marry Bernice or saving the local church from an expansion project. He remained fiercely independent, still driving his maroon minivan, cooking for himself, and sharing witty jokes until the very end.

Those left to honor Red’s memory include daughters, Judy (Dan) Byam of Clinton, IA, and Nancy Scholl of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandkids, great-grandkids, and great-great-grandkids.  He was preceded in death by parents, wife Bernice, 2 brothers, 2 sisters, and a son-in-law Dr. Robert Scholl.

A celebration of Red’s life will be held at 12 P.M., Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. until 11:45 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, with military honors.

As we remember Red, let us celebrate a life well-lived and the legacy he leaves behind. His strength, laughter, and stories will forever resonate with us.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Glen W. “Red” Henton memorial fund has been established.

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

Tim Hayes

Tim Hayes, 71, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, October 18, 2024, at Unity Point Finley Hospital.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Mass will be at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 24, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Rev. Steven Garner will officiate. Interment will be private. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory.

Tim was born September 2, 1953 in Dubuque, the son of Louis and Ruth (Feltes) Hayes. Tim married his high school sweetheart, Ann Hefel, on July 1, 1972 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Buena Vista. She preceded him in death on February 28, 2016.

Tim enjoyed working in sales for Kirchhoff/7G Distributing for over 35 years, and made many friends along the way. Along with his wife, Ann, he looked forward to hosting 3rd of July celebrations at their home on Rhomberg. Tim was an avid softball player, and was a member of the Holy Cross Softball Team and Bob & Del’s/Lake’s Lounge Softball Teams for many years. He was inducted into the Dubuque Slow Pitch Hall of Fame. He took many trips to Las Vegas with family and friends. Tim loved being a grandpa, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Tim is survived by two sons, Brian (Jen) Hayes and Marty (Tonya) Hayes; four grandsons, Henry, Charlie, Ben, and Oliver Hayes; his brother, Bob (Sherry) Hayes, of Holy Cross; his in-laws, Mary (Dave) Breitbach, of North Buena Vista, Helen (Rich) Deutmeyer, of Luxemburg, Kay (Bill) Kreeb, of Dyersville, Janet Hefel and Mark “Fritz” (Sue) Hefel, both of North Buena Vista, and Carol (Gary) Wedewer of Petersburg; and many nieces and nephews, including his god-daughter, Sarah Hayes.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents;  his parents in law, Ed and Rita (Ruden) Hefel; three brothers in law, Dick, Jim, and Roger Hefel; and a nephew, Ed Breitbach.

Tim’s family would like to extend a thank you to all the wonderful nurses and hospital staff who cared for Tim over the years.

Judy A. Supple

Judy A. Supple, 68, of Temple Hill, Iowa passed away Thursday, October 17, 2023 at  Silver Oaks Care Center in Marion, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Judy may call from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday, October 21, 2024 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa.  Visitation will continue after 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at the funeral home.

Services for Judy will be held  at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Temple Hill, Iowa with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Peter’s Cemetery in Temple Hill, Iowa.

She was born February 7, 1956 in Temple Hill, Iowa, daughter of James and LaVonnie (Appleby) Fields.  She is a 1975 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  On November 20, 1993 she was united in marriage to Donald Supple at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Temple Hill, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on June 11, 2022.

She was a fantastic mother and grandmother.  She seldom ever drank Alcohol, and never needed to in order to have a great time, as she was always having a good time, weather She was enjoying bingo or another board game (cheating , just like her sisters).  She loved dancing when Don used to take her out to dances, she wouldn’t sit down all night.  She loved to watch trash TV.  She was also known as a “deer slayer” this could be due to her lead foot-the fast and the furious-as she was always on the road running the wheels off the car. .

She was employed at Sheller Globe and then for Leer until her retirement in 2009.

She was a member of St. Peter’s Parish in Temple Hill, Iowa.

She is survived by one daughter, Carmen (Daniel) Joslin of Marion, IA; three grandchildren, Ashley (Brandon) Merfeld, Scott (Destiny) Fields, and Brittany Williams; two great grandchildren, Marley and Leo; her siblings, Dennis (Georgia) Fields of Oxford Junction, Gail Koppes of Cascade, Joyce (Bob) Stoffel of Bernard, Jerry (Juan) Vaga of Coggan, Michael Fields of Anamosa, Mark (Julie) Fields of Cedar Rapids, and Sandra (Jeff) Heins of Lamont; two sisters-in-law, Loretta (Francis) Conner of Lisbon and Alice (Kenneth) Widel of Maquoketa; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers-in-law, John “Jack” Supple and John Koppes; a sister-in-law, Mary (Roger) Callahan; and one nephew, Jim “Mutley” Callahan.

An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Joan E. McDonald Blocker

Joan Elizabeth McDonald Blocker,88, of Dubuque, died at Bethany Home on Friday, October 11, 2024.

A mass will be held Friday, November 8, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. A visitation will be held one hour before the service. A luncheon will follow the mass at Moracco Supper Club.

Given the many people she touched in her life, we have decided to hold a Celebration of Life in May 2025 (the exact date to be announced). This will be a special occasion for all her friends and relatives to come together and honor her memory.

Joan was born to Paddy and Ruth McDonald on April 17, 1936, in Darlington, WI.  She married Robert “R.J.” Blocker in 1960 and had two daughters. Joan is survived by R.J. and her daughters Judy (Dan) Byron of Crested Butte, CO, and Jody (Kirk) Partridge of Park City, UT. Joan also had five amazing grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Joan is preceded in death by her sister, Jean (McDonald)Furlong, and brother, James McDonald.

Joan worked at John Deere Dubuque Works and later enjoyed a long and successful career with the Dubuque County Courts. Joan enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, bowling, softball, painting, camping, drag racing, playing guitar, publishing the Snomad Ski Club newsletters, and organizing Snomad Ski Club ski trips.  Joan also loved all animals, but especially her dogs. She had a beautiful smile, particularly when driving her red 1966 convertible Mustang hot rod. Joan was very involved with Alcoholics Anonymous, helping many who would later become long-time friends.

Constance M. Gassen

Constance Marie “Connie” Gassen, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on October 14, 2024, at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque.

A graveside service for Connie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 19^th, 2024, at Mount Olivet Cemetery with Fr. Jeff Frieden officiating. Family will gather a half hour prior at the grave. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Connie was born on January 24, 1957, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Erwin and Johanna (Duggan) Kaiser. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and was employed at Finley Hospital as a housekeeper for 44 years. She always said she was the best housekeeper there.

She was formerly married to Joseph Gassen and together they had three children.

Connie enjoyed spending time with her family, shopping with her sisters, attending parades and loved to dance, especially county line dancing.

Connie also attended Al-Anon meetings to help support her former husband’s recovery journey. Connie became very close with many at the meetings, and they became family to her. She had much love for others and supported many in their recovery journey.

She is survived by three children: Jodi Gassen, Kristen (Joe) Laufenberg and Josh Gassen; grandchildren: Haley Motsch, Dillon, Madelyn, Elizabeth and Wayne Laufenberg and Adam Gassen. Her sister Louise and Dave Ehlinger; nieces and nephews Kelly (Jeff) Gerlach, Brian (Heather) Ehlinger, Scott (Sarah) Ehlinger, Nicholas (Kristie Douglas) Ehlinger, and Anne (Michelle) Ehlinger, along with numerous great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents Louis and Regina Duggan, and Peter and Matilda Kaiser, her sister Kay Kaiser as well as several aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents Louis and Regina Duggan and Peter and Matilda Kaiser along with her sister Kay Kaiser.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

The family wishes to thank Sunnycrest Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all their compassionate care they gave to Connie.

Roger J. Scholtes

Roger “Shiney” J. Scholtes, 88, of Bellevue passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.  Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Monday, October 28, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  Family will greet friends 9:00 am – 10:30 am prior to Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Terry L. Loso

Terry L. Loso, age 80, of East Dubuque, IL, completed his earthly journey on October 15, 2024, at home, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Terry’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Terry’s family.

Terry was born on February 21, 1944, in Toledo, OH, a son to Robert L. and Arvella M.C. (Hubert) Loso.  He was gifted with an engineer’s mind, the talents of a top shelf mechanic, as well as the perfect amount of humor and sass when the moment required it.  Terry was united in marriage to his first wife, Kathleen Coyle, and they were blessed with many wonderful years and three children together before she was sadly called home ahead of him.  Thankfully, Terry found love again and has enjoyed spending each day with his beautiful bride, DeeAnn R. Deaton, by his side.  He found great joy in being the husband, father, and grandfather he was made to be and not a day went by where Terry didn’t both meet and exceed the goals he had set for himself where providing and caring for his family was concerned. 

Terry was a mechanic by trade, and a Ford mechanic specifically was where his passions existed.  He invested over 47 years of his time and talents at the dealership before he unfortunately suffered a back injury which sadly limited his potential.  Terry always enjoyed working on cars, especially restoring classic cars whenever possible in his spare time.  He took great pride in his accomplishments over the years and never forgot his abilities to assemble a classic Corvette from the ground up with only an old owner’s manual in hand.  Terry was also known for his generosity by many and countless friends experienced firsthand his willingness to help them with their projects all while expecting nothing in return. 

Terry was also an avid pool and fastpitch softball player throughout his life.  When the workday was done, you could easily find him enjoying one or the other to round out the day in hopes of perfecting his skills even further.  Terry was truly honored to be inducted into the Fastpitch Softball Hall of Fame in 2016 and treasured the acknowledgement of countless hours he had spent surrounded by family and friends.  The world will never be the same without Terry’s light shining among us and all who knew and loved him now seek to remember every memory which he leaves behind.  His ability to make each day seems just a little bigger and brighter was uncanny and this legacy will hopefully help to comfort all those who possess such heavy hearts today in his absence.  Thank you, Terry, for bringing your best to the table for all to witness and may the Lord graciously grant you eternal peace now from your earthly battles.  We will miss and love you dearly until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Terry include: his loving wife, DeeAnn R. Loso, East Dubuque, IL; his three sons, Timothy L. Loso, East Dubuque, IL, Thomas J. (Erin) Loso, Menominee, IL, Jeremy J. (Jamie) Loso, Galena, IL; his step-son, Adam Deaton, Los Angeles, CA; his adored grandchildren, Trevor Loso, Tristan Loso, Tyler Loso, Taylor Loso, Sophia Loso, Maddux Loso, and Jacob Loso; his siblings, Linda Hilkey, Dubuque, IA, Larry (Sharon) Loso, East Dubuque, IL, and Jackie Loso, Onalaska, WI; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Kathleen (Coyle) Loso; his brother, Robert Loso; his brother-in-law, Oliver “Billy” Hilkey; and his niece, Kelly Leibold.

Terry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Rodney J. Bakke

Rodney James Bakke passed away on Saturday, October 12, at home surrounded by his family.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Friday October 18, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. Visitation will also be held from 9:00 am until 9:45 am Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rodney will be 10:00 am Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Elizabeth, IL at a later date.

Rod was born on October 15, 1937, to James Bakke and Lillian Haberman. Lillian later married his stepfather, Julius Haberman. He was the oldest of 7 children. He graduated from Lodi High School as Class President in 1955. Rod enjoyed his High School Reunions over the years and had recently attended his 69th High School reunion in August. He was determined to go, and he did just that.

Growing up, Rod loved attending the Ringling Bros Barnum and Bailey Circus in Madison and spending time at the family grocery store. He loved playing basketball and baseball.

Over the years, he cherished his time with his Wisconsin siblings and their families.

He received his Bachelor’s degree in Business and Master’s in Educational Guidance and Counseling at the University of UW-Platteville.

He married his former wife, Kay Ryan in 1957, and 3 boys were born to this union. Tom, Van and David. Some of the greatest memories they shared together were moments in Platteville, Wisconsin, centered around sports and Rod faithfully attended football, baseball and basketball games. He rarely missed a game and was always available to catch, shoot hoops or watch a game, especially the Wisconsin Badgers or Green Bay Packers. He attended the Ice Bowl with his son Tom in 1967 at Lambeau Field. He shared many stories of that day. The boys received the gardening gene from their dad and they have continued the admiration of flowers, lawn care and being around Mother Nature’s beauty.

Rod married his bride and love of his life, Mary Ann, on September 10, 1982 in Dubuque. They shared the same birthday, October 15. They had recently celebrated 42 years of marriage. They welcomed their daughter, Sarah, in 1983. He continued to be his children’s biggest supporters by watching Sarah in many musical and sporting events. He always gave her the very best advice and encouraged her to get involved as much as possible.

In Rod’s earlier career, he worked 10 years in the radio business in Poynette and Baraboo, Wisconsin, a field he became passionate about Junior year in High School after he was on a program, “Lodi on the Air.” Rod’s career then led him to Northeast Iowa Community College where he was key in the opening of the Peosta Campus. Rod worked there from 1977 until retirement in 1999. He devoted his passion of education in the areas of Admissions, Financial Aid and served as Development Director. He was inducted into the NICC Hall of Fame in 2014, receiving the Foundation Retiree Outstanding Service award. He was so very proud of this achievement. Rod helped organize the NICC Golf Outing which would benefit the Foundation.

After his retirement, Rod worked at the National River Museum & Aquarium, and then later as a volunteer. He enjoyed giving tours and welcoming groups.

Rod was deeply rooted in caring for and giving back to the communities in which he lived and loved at a young age. He helped the Platteville community by developing the Jaycee’s Park and organizing other community nonprofit events. He continued his enthusiasm for volunteering spending 32 years as a member of the Ambassadors of Dubuque. He enjoyed the ribbon cuttings greatly. He was involved in the Rotary Club for many years, serving as a former President. He also was on the Rescue Mission Board which filled his heart and yearning to help others. He served on the Holy Family School, Dubuque Five Flags, Dubuque County Fair, and Colts Drum and Bugle Corps Boards. Rod was a man of great faith and extremely involved at the Church of the Resurrection. He devoted his time and talents to the GREEN Team, Vocational and Social Justice Teams. The group in which he found some of his dearest friends was the Men’s M.E.S.S. group. These men were so very special to Rod and helped him in his yard when was unable to, and even built him a ramp. The bond they formed over the years filled his heart in many ways. He also had wonderful neighbors that would come over at any time to help him or have a chat. He was thankful for the Church Community and loved watching his wife Mary Ann sing in the choir.

Rod also spent many years assisting on political campaigns. He was anxiously awaiting the arrival of his absentee ballet.

Rod loved writing letters. The amount of letters Dad shared with others over the years was such a gift to many. Dad enjoyed gardening. He was so very proud of his garden and would bring his family, friends and local businesses beautiful bouquets. He was an expert in history, particularly WW2. He found such joy in attending church, community involvement, but above all spending time with his loved ones. He loved the holidays and celebrating traditions. He had many roles in life, but his most cherished role was “Grandpa.” He was very proud of all of his grandchildren. He enjoyed his opportunities to visit his grandchildren in Arkansas: Yumeko, Matthew, Melissa, Tyler and Logan and writing special letters to them too. He enjoyed following their academic, sports and other many accomplishments. Brooks and Jordyn were his youngest grandchildren, and he loved seeing them in their school masses, picking them up from school and spending time with them. He enjoyed helping Brooks with his homework and they would read together. He was his “little buddy” and Jordy lit up his days. He always shared with his family his love of reading and learning. He most recently enjoyed attending Brooks’ sporting events and watching Jordy’s gymnastic and dancing videos.

He loved special dates to the movies with Mary Ann and out to eat with his dear friends Kiefer’s, Herting’s and the Wick’s at Kalmes Breaktime. He had a great bond with his dear friends John and Joni Kubesh and cherished special memories with them.

Although our favorite guy had health issues over the last few years, he looked every challenge in the face and trusted in God. He worked so very hard at his Physical Therapy and left an impression on his many care givers.

Those who will continue to live on in Rod’s legacy include: Wife, Mary Ann of Dubuque, sons Tom (Sumako),of Greenbrier, Arkansas, their daughter Yumeko, Van (Alisha) of Bentonville Arkansas, their children Matthew Bakke (Ashleigh) and Melissa Pankey (Josh), David Bakke (Alana) of Maumelle, Arkansas, and their children Tyler and Logan, daughter, Sarah Helle (Justin) of Dubuque, their children Brooks and Jordyn, stepson, Stephen Jenkins (Maggie) of Madison, Wisconsin, their children Ida and Otis, siblings Rose Block (Carl) of New London, Bill (Diane) of Middleton, Wisconsin, Sue (Lenny) Klemmentz and Mary (Stan) Grob, both of Waunakee, Wisconsin, Grace (Larry) Kohn of Pardeeville, Wisconsin,  and Gordy Haberman of Oregon, Wisconsin. He was proceeded in death by his father, James Bakke, mother, Lillian Haberman and stepfather Julius Haberman.

He truly set a great example of how to honor people of all walks of life with his giving spirit.

He will be missed by so many, but his enormous heart will continue to guide our lives as we will move forward and so fondly remember him. To honor Rod, please always remember to stop and smell the flowers and write that hand-written note. A special thank you to Dr. Whalen and his team at Grand River Medical, Unity Point-Finley, Stonehill Communities Staff and Hospice of Dubuque who wrapped Rod in their care.

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

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

Seward Clampitt

Seward Clampitt, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday morning, October 14, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

He was born on May 17, 1935 in Oxford Junction, Iowa.  He was one of 17 children born to Stephen Edward and Pearl Lilly (Adams) Clampitt.  He attended country school and then helped his dad in the sawmill.

Seward became a familiar and beloved figure in the area, known for his unique mode of transportation. He was often spotted on his bicycle, traversing the city streets and local highways with a keen eye for collecting cans and other items. His dedication to this simple yet meaningful task was a reflection of his commitment to making the most of what life offered.

Seward’s life journey was one of simplicity, purpose, and joy. He found contentment in the everyday and inspired those around him to appreciate the beauty in the mundane. His was a life well-lived, marked by perseverance, kindness, and an unassuming nature that endeared him to many.

Those left to honor his memory include numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by 16 siblings, Margaret, Martha, Lena, Edna, Jenny, Hazel, Dorothy, Virginia, Jane, Phillip, Glenn, Herbert, Lewis, Albert, Joseph, and Franklin.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, October 18, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.

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