Obituaries Archive

James Olberding

James (Jim) Olberding, age 87, of Dyersville, IA passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of Sunday, November 2, 2025. Born August 11, 1938, he was the beloved son of Andrew and Agnes (Kramer) Olberding. He grew up on a farm west of Dyersville and graduated from Xavier High School. On October 27, 1962, he married Catherine (Katie) Daly at St. Clements Church in Bankston.

Jim was a hard worker from a very young age. In 1963, he started Olberding Construction Company and later added J&J Lawn Care. He spent his career building hundreds of farm buildings and mowing hundreds of acres of grass. Sixty-two years later, the businesses are now run by his sons Pat and John Olberding.

In 1960, he proudly began his service with the Army National Guard, later continuing as a member of the Reserves for six additional years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 137 of Dyersville.

In his pastime, Jim enjoyed spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, taking trips to Branson, square dancing, and his many Sunday morning breakfasts with friends. He was an avid bowler for many years and was a member of the Dyersville Bowling Association Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife Katie; four sons: Dan (Linda) Olberding, Pat Olberding, Joe Olberding, and John (Tammy) Olberding; one daughter, Carol (Mike) Mooney; grandchildren, Derek (Kayla) Olberding, Ashley Olberding, Chelsie (Hunter) Weatherman, Amanda (Ryan) McCann, McKenna (Ted) Townsend, Cassidy Olberding, Shelby (Brock) Harter, and Elizabeth Olberding; great-grandchildren: Parker, Reed, Marissa, Aiden, Sophia and two more on the way in 2026; and sisters-in-law: Shirley and Darlene Olberding.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Agnes; siblings: Dick (Alice), Gene, George, and Grace (Don) Hermsen; and his mother and father-in-law, Elmer and Mary Daly.

The visitation will be held from 3 – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville where a service will commence at 7 p.m. accorded by American Legion Post #137. Visitation will continue prior to funeral services from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home.

Funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with burial to follow at the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to all the visitors who were with Jim in his last days as well as his Mercy One, Accura, and Hospice of Dubuque caretakers.

Gone but not forgotten, forever in our hearts.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family. Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Maurna J. O’Brien

Maurna J. O’Brien, 92 Cascade, Iowa passed away on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa.

The family will greet people from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore, IA, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., with Rev. Michael Schueller Presiding.  Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Fillmore, Iowa.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade is assisting the family with arrangements.

She was born May 3, 1933, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter Leo D. and Loretta V. (Coakley) Noonan.  On April 21, 1956 she was united in marriage to the love of her life, George O’Brien at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on February 24, 1981.

She was employed at Security State Bank in Cascade for over 33 years, until her retirement.  She loved to play cards, especially Bridge.  She enjoyed her shopping sprees with her friends, spending time with family and friends just visiting.   She was a very faith filled woman, she was kind to all and a absolute wonderful wife, mother and aunt.  She was very proud of her Irish Heritage.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents, and her only son, Tim O’Brien on December 13, 1999.

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

Judith C. Curler

Judith “Judy” Carolynn Curler, 85, of Dubuque, died Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A celebration of life will be at a later date.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Judy was born April 21, 1940, in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert Arthur and Anita Lilly Avery Buol. On August 10, 1963, she married Robert Donald Curler at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque. He died January 23, 2024.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.

Judy was the assistant manager and bookkeeper at Bishop’s, where she developed many long-lasting friendships. She also worked at Steven’s Clothing in the mall and later at Theisen’s.

An Asbury Road walker, Judy loved cooking-many of her family members still use her cherished recipes today. She was an avid reader and shopper who shared a birthday with Queen Elizabeth and shined just as brightly. She enjoyed boating on the Mississippi River, adored her dog Sadie, and treasured every moment spent with her family, who were always the most important part of her life.

Survivors include two children, Steven (Rhonda) Curler of Walford, IA and Susan Schueller of Dubuque; five grandchildren, Joe Schueller of  Des Moines, Matt (Courtney) Curler of Cedar Rapids, Nikki Schueller of Dubuque, Abby (Brett) Foreman of Lawrence, KS, and Sarah Schueller of Dubuque; one great grandson, Crew and one great granddaughter due in December; one brother, Casper “C.J.” (Leslye) Buol of OK; four siblings-in-law, Millie (George) Freed of Phoenix, AZ, Fred Curler, Jr. of Dubuque, Billy (Robin) Curler of Gladbrook, IA, and Donald (Karen) Curler of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law, Jeff Schueller, infant grandson, Nicholas Curler, and one sister, Grace Wehrspann.

A special thank you to Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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 Judy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Donald J. Daugherty

Donald J. “Don” Daugherty, age 76, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on October 29, 2025, at Ennoble Manor while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Don’s life, a private burial will be held at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Don’s family.

Don was born on August 25, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Joseph and Leone (Derreberry) Daugherty.  He was a good and decent man who strived to keep life simply, enjoyed his daily routines, and always treasured the time he was able to spend with his family and friends.  Don was blessed to find and marry the love of his life, Kaylen Mathews, and the couple spent the last 50 years together facing each day as it arrived united in the common goal of making it the best day they could through life’s ups and downs.  Sadly, their daughter, Tracy Lyn was called home much too early in life and their hearts would unfortunately have to carry a deep wound that would never truly heal.

Don spent his working years with the Dubuque Pack, but never gave up on his desire to gain knowledge and wisdom wherever he could.  He went on to earn two degrees later in life and continued growing where his interests led him.  Don was generally a home body at heart and enjoyed catching his favorite tv shows when time allowed, and you can be sure that if his Denver Broncos were playing, he definitely made sure that time would allow.  Our hearts break at the mere thought of losing Don so suddenly.  His last couple years of health battles were a challenge for sure, but we leaned into the fact that he seemed to rally when the worse was over.  Sadly, this time, the Lord decided that it was time to rest from his earthly challenges and call him home to begin his eternal journey.  We pray for peace and comfort in our broken hearts as we face these most difficult days ahead and can now only wait patiently to see his smiling face once again.  Thank you, Don, for living a good life, reminding us to find joy and pleasure where we can, and to never surrender without putting in an honest fight first.  May the Lord bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms and may He help to heal our heavy hearts in time.

Those left to cherish the memory of Don include,

his loving wife of 50 years,
Kaylen Daugherty, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Bethaney Putchio, Ann Arbor, MI,
and Jakob Putchio, North Dakota;

his sister,
Diane Wagner, Ann Arbor, MI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter, Tracy Lyn Daughterty-Putchio.

Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Michael L. Chapman

Michael Leo Chapman, 71, of East Dubuque, died Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Mike will be 10:00 am Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Jamie Schilling officiating.

Michael was born November 22, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Charles and Arlene Herbst Chapman. On August 25, 1971, he married Susan Mae Quade in Peosta. They later divorced. On December 24, 1980, he married Sandra Goedken in Dubuque.

He attended Dubuque Senior High School.  He served as a medic in the U.S. Army while stationed in Panama.

He worked for many years at Dubuque Tank Terminal as a heavy machine operator. He was part of the original class at Casino Belle and later worked at the Silver Eagle and Diamond Jo Casino. He more recently worked in the meat department at Hy-Vee.

He had a love for fishing and especially cherished his trips to Canada. He enjoyed playing cards and never missed a good NASCAR race, always cheering for his favorite driver, Jimmie Johnson. A proud Green Bay Packers fan, he also loved spending time in the kitchen and was known to be an excellent cook. He treasured his ’66 Chevy Chevelle convertible, his faithful dog, Daisy, and most of all, the time he spent with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy; three children, Nathan Chapman of Dubuque, Christina (Larry) Robinson of Bernard, and Charles Chapman, of Dubuque; 11 grandchildren, Garrett, Jakob, Brooklyn, Lily, Logan, Mia, Ella, Cora, Lawson, Lincoln, and Ellyse; one brother, Dan (Mary) Chapman of Dubuque; two sisters, Debbie Chapman of Sun City, AZ, and Patty (Jon) Numedahl of Decorah, IA; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Debbie Anglin, Diane (Ken) Anglin, Lori (Barry) Brillhart, Randy (Jessie) Goedken, Steven (Denise) Goedken, Wade Hayward, and Tom Schissel, all of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Tracy Lynn, two sisters, Kathy Hayward, and Penny Schissel, and one brother-in-law, Gary Anglin.

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

Steven J. Bergfeld

Steven J. “Steve” Bergfeld, age 56, of Zwingle, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on October 28, 2025, at home.  To honor Steve’s life, a private family burial will be held at the Holy Family Cemetery in Peosta, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Steve’s family.

Steve was born on February 15, 1969, in Dubuque, IA, one of eight children to George J. and Joanne E. (Sadler) Bergfeld.  He was an outdoorsman at heart and always enjoyed every opportunity which presented itself to spend a little time under the open sky.  Hunting and fishing were among his favorite activities and every hour he was walking the timber, or casting his line at the water’s edge was considered to be time well spent.

Steve worked in construction in his early years and owned Steve Bergfeld Construction before he decided it was time to put his time and talents to work with John Deere Harvester Works in East Moline, IL.  He spent the last 18 years there making many friends along the way and always taking great pride in his work.

Steve’s sudden absence from our daily lives leaves a void which will likely never completely heal, but hopefully mend in time.  We will seek for those rare moments of comfort where possible within the good memories he leaves behind and pray that there is peace to be found eventually for all of the broken hearts who knew and loved Steve.  Thank you, Steve, for all the good you did during your stay with us and may the Lord bless and keep you safely in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Steve include,

his wife,
Anne Wink-Bergfeld, Zwingle, IA;

his two children,
Sadler Bergfeld, at home,
and Piper Bergfeld, at home;

his parents,
George (Joanne) Bergfeld, Peosta, IA;

his siblings,
Donald (Jodi) Bergfeld, Peosta, IA,
Kathy (Jerome) Begle, Bankston, IA,
Sharon (Dale) Vosberg, Cuba City, WI,
Ruth (Keith) Martin, Zwingle, IA,
Janet (Brett) Steffen, Marion, IA,
David (Alicia) Bergfeld, Peosta, IA,
and Jeff (Barb) Bergfeld, Farley, IA;

his mother and father-in-law,
Steve (D’Anna) Wink, Peosta, IA;

his brothers-in-law,
Robin (Kelly) Wink, Bernard, IA,
and A.J. (Kristen) Wink, Monticello, IA;

his best friends,
Mike Siegert, Dubuque, IA,
and Rick Brandt, Bettendorf, IA;

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

Steve was preceded in death by his niece, Jessica Bergfeld.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sadler and Piper Bergfeld fund at DuTrac Community Credit Union at 3465 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA, 52002.

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

Ann M. Hess

Ann M. Hess, age 65, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on October 29, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Ann’s life, a private family burial will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ann’s family.

Ann was born on May 10, 1960, in Dubuque, IA, one of ten children to Allen and Helen (Bodish) Vrotsos.  Ann was gifted with a spirit of courage and a warrior’s heart from a young age.  She spent the majority of her life here among us doing her best to make the world a better place where and when she could.  She spent most of her working career, almost 35 years, in retail sharing her time and talents at Sibbing’s Jewelry, Vrotsos Jewelry, and eventually retired from Sears in 2014.  But, her service wasn’t complete yet as Ann went on to invest another 10 years with Iowa Legal Aide.  She helped countless folks in our community and made many friends along the way, especially her “Fishbowl Margarita” partners in crime.  Ann always gave more than she took and the boundaries of her heart were undeniably endless.

Ann always understood that life required balance to truly be a joyful one.  Her work life only came in second to her devotion to her family.  She loved and adored her children more than life itself.  Whether she was working on her next delicious meal to nurture their growing bodies, or sharing her insights and wisdom when she could, Ann was always leading by example and trusting that her love and lessons were both being listened to, witnessed and understood.  In her free-time, Ann enjoyed spending a little time trying her luck at the casino when time allowed, but for those who knew her best, cuddling up with her favorite feline companions was undeniably her happy place.  And who can forget her annual participation in the “Over The Edge” fundraiser for the United Way.  The world is truly a lesser place without Ann’s love and light shining among us.  May the legacy and memories she leaves behind help to comfort the broken hearts of all who knew and loved her and may her earthly health battles be all but a distant memory as she begins her eternal journey while waiting patiently to see her loved ones precious faces once again. POB for now!

Those left to cherish the memory of Ann include,

her five adored children,
Christina (T.J. Stapleton III) Berger, Dubuque, IA,
Vega (Kendra) Rohwedder, Dubuque, IA,
David Berger, Dubuque, IA,
Elaina Hess, Dubuque, IA,
and Henry (Sierra) Hess, Dubuque, IA;

her ten grandchildren,
Alexis (Daniel) Basten, Isabelle Stapleton, Romyn Stapleton, T.J. Stapleton, Fable Stapleton, Teddy Stapleton IV, Gabe Stapleton, Alaina Dennison, Darcy Gallaher and Bria Hess;

her three great-grandchildren,
Ryker Basten, Benny Basten, and Ronnie “Jr.” Clark;

her seven siblings,
Mary Smith, Chicago, IL,
Christine Davis, Galena, IL,
Marc (Linda) Vrotsos, Ozarks, MO,
Don (Juli) Vrotsos, Dubuque, IA,
Blaise (Ann) Vrotsos, Dubuque, I,a
Paul (Don) Vrotsos, Greece,
and Peter Vrotsos, Chicago, IL;

her two sisters-in-law,
Mary Jo Vrotsos, LaMotte, IA,
and Debbie Vrotsos, Omaha, NE;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, John Vrotsos and Curt Vrotsos; and her two brothers-in-law, Michael Smith and William Davis.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Ann’s name to Hospice of Dubuque and Iowa Legal Aide.

Ann’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 Ann’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Lee Ann Konrardy

Lee Ann Konrardy, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on October 28, 2025, at Luther Manor – Grand Meadows.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home with Deacon Bill Biver officiating. A livestream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page.  Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Lee Ann was born on November 2, 1944, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, the daughter of Alvin and Leone (Gaulke) Steinberg. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. She married Lloyd Konrardy on February 20, 1965, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. Lee worked as an office manager for Pat Steele and David Leifker.

Lee Ann is survived by her children Denise (Larry) Hefel, Douglas (Sandy) Konrardy, Laura (Tom) Schulte, and Julia (Jason) Cromey; eight grandchildren, Jeremy, Nicole (Sara), Brian (Shannon), Levi (Maddie), Alanna, Taylor (Tyler), Logan, and Xavier; nine great-grandchildren; siblings Ed (Pat) Steinberg, Peg Cussen, Janeen (Bob) Wernimont, Mark (Sandee) Steinberg, Jack Steinberg, and Al Steinberg; in-laws Marie Decker, Norma Jean Schuster, Roger, Cathy and  Phillip (Kay) Konrardy; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd; her parents, Alvin and Leone; sister Constance; two sisters-in-law; and seven brothers-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lee Ann’s name to Hospice of Dubuque and Alzheimer’s Association.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Grands Meadows for the wonderful care they have given to Lee Ann these last three years. Also, to Hospice of Dubuque (especially Kelly) for the care and compassion they showed mom during her last month’s here with us.

Nancy E. Stratman Smith

Nancy Ellen Stratman Smith of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Bloomington, IL, was born in Dodgeville, WI on December 3, 1945, to Joseph and Blanche (Kirkpatrick) Stratman. She resided in Mineral Point, WI surrounded by grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. Her love for Mineral Point continued throughout her life. She enjoyed visiting whenever she had a chance. She graduated from Mineral Point High School in 1964 and then attended University of Wisconsin – Platteville where she studied English. She married the love of her life on March 16, 1968. She passed away on October 27, 2025, at 2:01 p.m. surrounded by family.

Nancy met the love of their life, Roger Smith, during her first semester at Platteville in 1964. In the beginning of their relationship, she would “happen” to be at the same place as he was so they could walk back to the dorms together. She claimed they were in a relationship for a couple of months before he realized they were “an item.” Roger and Nancy were married on March 16, 1968 after four years of courtship. Nancy typed Roger’s papers for him while they were in college, and they had been together so long the professors would return his papers to him even when Nancy put her own name on the paper.

The first few years of their marriage was spent with Roger serving in the U.S. Air Force. Their first home was in Dearborn, OH before getting orders for Japan. Moving to a foreign country was a huge change for a girl from Mineral Point who had never been out of the state of Wisconsin! Nancy was employed as a preschool teacher in Japan and enjoyed the beautiful culture and food. Roger and Nancy met lifelong friends while stationed in Japan.

Roger was sent to Thailand in 1972, which was during Nancy’s pregnancy with their first child. Nancy moved back to Wisconsin to be closer to her parents. Their daughter, Jennifer, was born in 1973. Their son Joel was born in 1975 while they were stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Knobnoster, MO. Roger moved to reserve status in the Air Force in 1976 and the family moved to Kansas City, KS. Nancy became a preschool teacher, first at Grandview Methodist Church and then at Eisenhower Recreation Center. She was a beloved teacher, and the career gave her the same schedule as her children. Nancy spent summers taking her children and their friends to the movies, to the park, and to the swimming pool daily. Of course, she always made sure chores were done before they were able to play in the afternoon.

The family moved to Bloomington, IL in 1984. Nancy wanted to make sure her children were able to adjust to the new city, so she did not get a job outside the home. However, after about six months during which she baked cookies, cakes, or pies every day, Roger said she needed to find employment because he could not eat everything she was baking. Nancy worked retail for a few years. She then became a Weight Watchers Leader after losing 80 pounds on the program. Nancy was very successful as a leader, earning district awards for helping the most people reach their goal several times. She even won a trip to New York City to attend a gala at the Waldorf Astoria in 1988 because of her success.

After Joel graduated from high school, Nancy decided to start a new career and began working as a resident assistant at a domestic violence shelter and was a volunteer at a crisis line answering phone calls. A position as the phone room coordinator opened at the crisis line, and the director approached her about the position. Nancy took that position and was responsible for staffing a 24-hour, 365 day a year crisis line with volunteers. She was also responsible for interviewing and training volunteers. People told her it was not possible to staff an all-volunteer crisis line, even though she was always able to do so. She retired from the crisis line after 15 years.

In 2017, Roger and Nancy decided they should move closer to one of their children, who had both moved out of Bloomington. They decided to move to Dubuque, IA where their daughter was living. Nancy told her children in July that they thought they should move, and they spent their first night in their new home on Christmas Eve. Nancy loved Dubuque, saying it was the best kept secret, and she saved the best place for last.

Nancy was a huge animal lover and always had a pet. As a child she tamed a wild rabbit, and had several dogs, before she first became a dachshund owner. She has had several dachshunds through the years, and several other dogs over the age of 8 as rescues. She passed on her love of animals, in particular dachshunds, to her children who each own one or two. Nancy loved to spoil her pets, and each had a special place in her heart. All her pets are members of the family.

Nancy was also a serious bridge player, which she learned from her mother.

Nancy’s greatest joy was being a wife and mother. The well-being of her family was the top priority. She always wanted her family to know she loved them completely. While raising her children, she wanted them to feel comfortable pursuing all interests, and for them to know they could bring friends back to the house. She laughed that there were evenings the bedroom floor would be vibrating due to the loud music being played downstairs. Her children always knew they could depend on their mother and even volunteering her to chaperone trips without asking her first. Nancy was even a T-ball coach for Joel, even though she did not know the sport at all.

Next to being a mother, being a grandmother was the greatest honor of her life. The birth of her grandson Caiden in 2005 brought incredible joy. She was always thinking of what she could do to spoil her grandson and make sure he felt special. She was so proud to watch him become the incredible young man he is today. She was excited to have him in the area this last summer and was able to spend several weekends with him. Her granddaughter Lexi was born in 2010 and just increased her joy. Nancy wanted to encourage Lexi to pursue any dreams she may have and was always trying to find ways to help Lexi pursue those dreams. She was so proud of both her grandchildren.

Nancy will always be known for having kind words and her cooking. It was not unusual for her to meet someone in a store and end up talking to them for an hour getting their life story. She hated people to be alone and started a Christmas Dinner at church for those who would be alone on Christmas.

Nancy showed how much she cared for people through her cooking. She loved to make sure people were well fed with their favorite foods. A family friend, Robin, once told Nancy her cooking was her ministry. Nancy was always willing to cook a meal for someone who needed a helping hand. She would plan for weeks in preparation for her turn at Hospitality, always trying to come up with something new to make church members happy.

Nancy is survived by her husband Roger, Daughter Jennifer Smith (John Kielty) of Dubuque, Son Joel Smith of Erie, CO; Grandchildren Caiden Smith of Lincoln, NE and Lexi Smith of Erie, CO; Sister Jana (Orlyn) Edge of Normal, IL; Sister-By-Choice Gini (Lindel) Hunt of Bloomington, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, in-laws Lowell and Ruth Smith, and brothers-in-law Gary Smith and Clarence Herrmann.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Grand View Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Dr, Dubuque, IA. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. at Grand View with a lunch to follow. Private burial will occur on Saturday in Mineral Point, WI.

Memorials to Grand View Methodist Church.

Thank You to the nurses, staff and doctors at Grand River Medical Group and Finley Hospital.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

Patrick A. Wold

Patrick A. Wold, 73, of Dubuque died Saturday, October 25, 2025.  Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, November 3rd at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Military rites will be accorded immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Patrick was born May 7, 1952 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Ronald “Swede” and Hazel (Schlampp) Wold.

Pat attended Dubuque Senior High School. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the US Army and served in Germany, Korea and then on the frontlines in Viet Nam. He was awarded the bronze star.

He worked in various jobs, most recently as a security guard at John Deere Dubuque Works before his retirement.

Pat loved his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He enjoyed movies, eating out, his church family and sharing his chocolates with anyone who needed a smile. He was a wonderful brother, a loving son to his mother, a caring and thoughtful uncle, a loyal friend, a favorite neighbor and a faithful servant of Christ. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his twin sister Pamela Emary of Apache Junction, Arizona, a sister, Kathleen (Paul) Erickson of Asbury, a brother, Timothy (Dawn) Wold and several nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents and sister Dianne in 1977, brother Joseph in 1980, brother Ron in 1985, and brother Mark in 2006.

A special thank you to his VA Comfort Care nurse Linda Goodman, and to his lifelong best friend, Mark Anthony.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Patrick Wold memorial fund.

Ronald L. Bahlmann

Ronald L. “Ron” Bahlmann, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on February 2, 1948, in Charles City, Iowa, Ron was the oldest child of Lester Fred and Beth Helen (Beck) Bahlmann.

Ron was a 1966 graduate of Nashua High School.  On August 8, 1970, he married the love of his life, Kay Ann Siems, in Nashua, Iowa. Their loving partnership was blessed with two children, Megan and Drew. Ron was a devoted husband and father, and his family was the center of his world.

Throughout his life, Ron was known for his strong work ethic and his service to others. He began his career at Nordic Forge in Guttenberg before embarking on a remarkable 40-year tenure with Ertl Toy Factory in Dyersville, Iowa. His dedication to his work was matched only by his commitment to his community, as he also served as an EMT with the Guttenberg Ambulance Service for over four decades. Ron’s selflessness and desire to help those in need were hallmarks of his character.

Ron’s passion for life extended beyond his professional and volunteer work. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Before that, Ron was a 40+ year member of St. John’s Lutheran church in Guttenberg, IA, where he and his family sang in the church choir that Kay directed and played for.  An avid sports enthusiast, Ron relished in the excitement of the game, whether cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes football team or rooting for his favorite Major League Baseball teams, the Chicago Cubs and the Minnesota Twins.  In addition to his love for sports, Ron was an avid puzzle enthusiast and a civil war buff.

Ron is survived by his children, Megan Bahlmann of Maquoketa, IA, and Drew (Dani) Bahlmann of Sigourney, IA; his adored grandchildren, Ella and Clara; and his siblings, Linda (Gary) Girkin of Charles City, IA, Denny (Sharri) Bahlmann of Johnston, IA, and Norma (Ron) Young of Fairfield, CT. He was preceded by that of his parents, and his beloved wife, Kay Ann, on April 5, 2024.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, November 7, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Guttenberg, Iowa City Cemetery, at a later date.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Ronald L. “Ron” Bahlmann memorial fund has been established.

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

Grant J. Barlow

Grant J. Barlow, age 76, of Menominee, IL, formerly of Wildwood, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 27, 2025 at home.

Family and friends may call from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Friday, NOVEMBER 7, 2025 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, NOVEMBER 8, 2025, with Rev. Jim McCrea officiating.  Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787.

Grant was born on August 19, 1949 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, the son of Grant H. and Marion (Lewis) Barlow. He was a 1967 graduate of Libertyville High School, Libertyville, IL. Grant earned his BA degree from Governor’s State University, University Park, IL.

He was united in marriage to Cheryl Diane Roos on January 3, 1981 in Waukegan, Illinois. Grant was a research scientist for Abbott Labs, Abbott Park, IL, retiring in 2002. The family then moved to Galena, IL, and he worked for Thermal Fisher in Dubuque, IA, until he retired again.  Then the family later moved to Menominee, IL.

Grant served in the U. S. Air Force during the Vietnam era in the US and Europe. He was a member of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque, IL, and greatly enjoyed the camaraderie of his fellow veterans.  He enjoyed astronomy and learning new things, was a talented woodworker, loved cars, and boats and camping, and collecting old coins, and was a former Boy Scout Troop leader in Wildwood, IL, bringing Troop 72 back from the brink of disbanding.  He was a member of the Nohr Woodturners, Platteville, WI.  Grant was a very caring person and made many, many, pens and bowls in the last several years which he greatly enjoyed giving away to people.

Surviving is his wife, Cheryl “Diane”; three children, Kristan, Patrick J. and Andrew K. Barlow, all of Menominee; and sister-in-law, Holly (Ted) Custod and their children, Emma and Erin of Libertyville, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grant H. and Marion Barlow.

Grant’s family wishes to thank the Galena Area Ambulance Service, the Menominee-Dunleith Fire Dept, and the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Dept. for their quick response and understanding care to our call for assistance.

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

Doris M. Spahn

Doris M. (Sherman) Spahn, age 85, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Family and friends may call from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, November 2nd at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, where the parish rosary will be recited at 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 3rd at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Bosco Aruldoss officiating. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery.

Doris was born May 6, 1940 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Joseph R. and Ida M. (Bonnet) Sherman.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1958. On August 29, 1959 she was united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Spahn at St. Mary’s Church.  He preceded her in death on February 28, 2009.

Doris was formerly employed at Roshek’s Dept. Store and Medical Associates Clinic. She was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and its Altar & Rosary Society.

Doris loved embroidery, sewing, quilting, flowers, the Warriors sports programs, attending her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sporting events, and was an avid Fighting Illini fan.

Surviving are two daughters, Tammy (Scott) Heim of East Dubuque, IL, and Debbie (Steve) Harris of Marshalltown, IA; grandchildren, Adam (Sara) Roth of DeWitt, IA, Mollie Jo Roth (friend Tony Steen) of East Dubuque, IL, Ashley (Danny) Bonifas of Jackson, MO, and Joseph (friend Kennedee Jones) Harris of Marshalltown IA; great-grandchildren, Karrigan and Deagan Roth, Ethan, Cooper and Aubrie Schulting, and Evelynn and Hannah Bonifas; two brothers, Lloyd Sherman of East Dubuque, IL and David Sherman of Dubuque, IA; and numerous cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Ida Sherman, husband Bob, and sister-in-law Mary Jo Sherman.

The family wishes to thank members of the East Dubuque Fire Dept. and Ambulance Service and the Doctors and Nurses at Mercy One Dubuque Emergency Room for their kindness and compassion.

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

Joseph L. Staner

Joseph L. Staner, 89 , of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Accura Health Care in Cascade, surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of Joe may call from 9 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services for Joe will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Concelebrating will be Rev. Mark Osterhaus.  Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Garryowen, Iowa.

Joe was born June 1, 1936, in rural Cascade, Iowa, son of Wilfred and Martha (Peiffer) Staner.  On October 15, 1957, he was united in marriage to Rosemary McKenna at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa.

The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area, Joe had a great passion for farming and took pride in his place he had beef cattle, dairy cattle and pork through out the years, until retiring and moving to Cascade.  Through their 68 years of marriage it was always “Family is the First and Foremost important thing in life.”

He is a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa, and the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemary Staner of Cascade, IA; three children, Ann (Dennis) Dailey of Spring Hill, FL, Betty (Bruce) Carey of Athens, IL. And Cathy (Alan) Niemeier of Argyle, WI; one son-in-law, Tim Valentine of Monticello, IA; several grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Janet Siegert of Peosta, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one daughter Laurie Valentine on May 15, 2020; his siblings and their spouses, Janice (Victor) Kraus, Marie (Frank) Orr and Paul (Janet) Staner; two brothers-in-law, Bill Siegert and Bob McKenna.

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

The family would like to thank Health care staff, Hospice of Dubuque, Sherry Kelchen and their neighbors  for all the help and care given to Joe.

Karl J. Fleege

Karl J. Fleege, 69, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, surrounded by his loving family. Though his passing was unexpected, it was peaceful, and he was deeply loved to the very end.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at noon. Inurnment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Karl was born on June 24, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence and Kathleen (Heller) Fleege. After graduating from Hazel Green High School and Southwest Tech, he began his career at Trausch Baking Company—later Bimbo Bakery—where he worked for almost 40 years until his retirement.

Karl was a quiet man with a generous heart who made everyone around him feel cared for. He was always willing to lend a hand, mow a neighbor’s lawn, or help out however he could. His faith was deeply important to him and guided the way he lived his life—with prayer, kindness, humility, and love.

He had a silly sense of humor that could make even a trip to the grocery store fun. He loved riding his motorcycle, listening to music, and building or fixing just about anything. But above all, Karl’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who played tirelessly with his grandsons—Liam, Ashton, and Landon—all of whom lit up the moment he walked into a room.

Karl is survived by his wife of 47 years, Karen Fleege; children, Karla (Tyler) Bell and Kyle (Carly) Fleege; grandchildren, Liam, and Ashton Fleege and Landon Bell; siblings: Shirley (Robert) Szafran; Mary (Cabler) Bergschneider; Jack (Rita) Fleege; Julie (Dan) Matuszak; Gary Fleege; Kim (Mike) Koopmann; and Krista (Rob) Horton.

He is also survived by his in-laws: Don (Renee) Cue, Jeff (Ginger) Cue, Tim Cue, Kevin (Dana) Cue, Bill (Sarah) Cue, Jim (Nancy) Bauch, and Gary Wild; along with many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. And special friends the Greg Lindenberg family and the Eric Scott family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Linda; his brother, Dan; and in-laws, Sharon Atkins, Kathy Wild, Steve Cue, David Cue and his great nephew, Silas Sturm.

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

In lieu of flowers, Karl’s family asks that you honor his memory by enjoying time with your loved ones—he cherished those moments.