Obituaries Archive

Joanne P. (Carr) Plein

Joanne P. (Carr) Plein, age 73, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 5:30 a.m., on Friday, June 7, 2019, at ManorCare Health Services, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Joanne’s life, funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, on Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating. To celebrate Joanne’s life, family and friends may visit from 11:00 a.m., until the time of services at 12:00 noon, on Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Joanne was born on June 2, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Roy and LaVerne (O’Brien) Carr.

Joanne was a lifelong resident of Dubuque who worked at the Walgreen’s Deli before getting married. She was united in marriage to John Plein on November 7, 1975, in Galena, Illinois. Joanne was a devoted full time wife and mom who enjoyed caring for her home and family. In her free time, Joanne liked spending time with her friends and going for walks at Eagle Point Park. Family, however, was truly her greatest joy in life, she loved getting together for the holidays, especially when the grandchildren came along. Joanne also enjoyed playing Bingo with her friends at ManorCare and had quite the collection of stuffed animals to showcase her winnings. She had a phenomenal memory for faces, names and phone numbers, a trait which many of us wish we had been blessed with. We are saddened at losing our sweet Joanne, but take some comfort in knowing that she is now free of the health issues she has faced with such grace these past few years.

Those left to cherish Joanne’s memory include

her husband,
John Plein, Vinton, IA;

her children,
Amy Plein, Platteville, WI;

her 2 granddaughters,
Crystal Berning and Jessica “Jessi” Turtscher, both in Platteville, WI;

and her siblings,
Michael (Patti) Carr, Dubuque, IA,
Cathy Saddoris, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Rich Carr, Waterloo, IA,
Don (Dianne) Carr, Wauwatosa, WI
and Jerry (Terri) Carr, Epworth, IA.

Joanne was preceded in death by her parents; and 3 brothers, Thomas, Philip and Patrick Carr.

Joanne’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of ManorCare and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and caring support of Joanne and her family.

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

Roy J. Gabrenja

Roy Joseph Gabrenja, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa formerly of Rickardsville and Sunset Park Place in Dubuque passed away June 7th, 2019 at Manor Care with his loving family by his side.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday June 11th, 2019 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, with Fr. Paul Attah-Nsiah officiating. Visitation be after 9:00 a.m. until time of service Tuesday at the church . Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Rickardsville, IA.

Roy was born on October 22, 1924 in Dubuque the son of John Gabrenja and Anna (Pizem) Gabrenja. Roy married Dorothy Schrobilgen on April 12th 1948. Together they had three children and shared 71 beautiful years together.

Roy farmed in the 5 points area of Dubuque Co. and he worked at John Deere Dubuque works for 25 years retiring in 1985.

Roy enjoyed playing cards, especially rummy and solitaire, and loved trips the casino before his health and eyesight failed him. He fought a long hard battle against numerous cancers over 14 years. His family and faith mattered most to him.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his family: Daughter, Diane (Bob) Meyer and their children, Kris (J.D.) Neal, their children, Tristan and Griffin; Keri (Jon) Griswold and their children, Owen and Olyvia; Grace Coleman and her daughter Lillith Frisa. Daughter Sandy (Steve) Zalaznik and their children, Eric (Paige Ortiz) and their children, Ava, Julia, Clara Zalaznik and Jake and Jimmy Ortiz; Jason (Stephanie) Zalaznik and their children Jaylynne, Josie, Judson, Elsie, and Millie; Ryan (Madde) Zalaznik and their children Zayda Zalaznik and Jack Mulgrew. A son John Gabrenja. In-laws Pat Hough, Thelma Roberts, and Irma Schrobligen. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Anna (Art) Heiderscheit; a younger brother; a great-granddaughter Lauryn Griswold; mother and father-in-law Joseph and Margaret (Lex) Schrobilgen; In-laws Melvin Schrobilgen, Robert (Dorothy) Schrobilgen, Germaine (Aloysius) Schmitt, and Harlan Roberts.

Roy’s family would like to extend a huge thank you to all his many caregivers over the years. He had his favorites and you know who you are!

Family would like guests to dress casual and comfortable for services.

The family requests no flowers, instead memorials will be directed to the Hope Lodge in Iowa City to help house those fighting cancer. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is in charge of arrangements.

Julia M. Gourley

Julia Marie Gourley, 54, of Dubuque left this world and went straight to heaven on June 7, 2019, peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2019, at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 10, at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road and from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Nativity Church. Burial will be at a later date.

Julia was born September 27, 1964, in Dubuque, daughter of Allen and Nancy (Jungk) Gourley. She attended Nativity School, Washington Junior High and Dubuque Senior High School, graduating in 1983. She was a delightful child, had lots of friends, and was an avid swimmer on the YMCA team for about 8 years. After high school, she clerked at A.J. August. Later she attended NICC majoring in Marketing and Business while working at Burger King. She went to Chicago and attended Burger King Managerial School and worked in the Chicago area for several years. Her life had a lot of ups and downs. After returning home she worked as a nurse’s aide. She tried to befriend Bill W., but was not successful. She volunteered at numerous places including Project Concern. In recent years, she waitressed mostly at Maid-Rite where patrons there really enjoyed her and looked forward to seeing and joking with her. The last year and a half she battled lung cancer, but kept her sense of humor, joking and chatting with everyone. At the Wendt Center, they even suggested that she come and greet others as she had such a way with people.

Surviving are her twins, Benjamin Gourley and Brianna Gourley; her mother, Nancy Gourley; her sister, Kathy Meyer; her brothers, Arthur (Kenda) Gourley, William (Bonnie) Gourley, Timothy (Ann) Gourley; and her former brother-in-law, Steve Meyer, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Julie was preceded in death by her father, Allen Gourley; her brother, Leonard Gourley; her uncle, Thomas Jungk; and her aunt, Alice Smith-Weigman.

Julia’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff at Mercy Medical Center, Mercy Home Health, Medical Associates, the Wendt Center, Hillcrest IHH and Hospice of Dubuque. She had wonderful care and became close to a number of her caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the aforementioned agencies or to the Gourley Family Endowment Scholarship Fund at NICC.

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

Philip J. Ruff

Philip J. Ruff, 90, of Dubuque passed away Friday, June 7, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2019 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa St.  Entombment will be in Resurrection Mausoleum, Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Military rites will be accorded.  Friends and family may call from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, June 9, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 1 p.m.

Philip was born May 2, 1929, in Dubuque, son of Charles H. and Alma K. (Stecklein) Ruff.  He was the sixth child of eleven children. Phil attended Sacred Heart grade school and graduated from Loras Academy. Phil served in the Army from 1951 to 1953. Thirteen months in Korea and for 10 of those months he was in combat.

After marrying Shirley Waldbillig on July 16, 1955 they would be blessed with nine children. Phil attended Barber College and graduated in April 1959. Phil’s family always came first, working long hours to provide for them. Phil would barber for 45 years while also working at Flexsteel for 18 years. Phil enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching sports; whether it was his kids, grandchildren or even on T.V. He loved a good game.  Phil loved to travel with his family; visiting places he thought he would never see.  Phil was blessed with the gift of gab, and people loved to hear his stories. He enjoyed a good conversation with family, friends and his customers. Phil’s faith was very important to him, always making it a priority to go to daily Mass, and spending many hours at the Power of Prayer. In his later years, he loved to watch Eternal Word on television.  Phil was a long time member of Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #6.

Surviving is his wife Shirley, his children, Thomas Ruff, Maria (Kevin J.) Kruser, Terrence Ruff (Jill Fondell), and Michael Ruff, all of Dubuque, Rhonda (Steve) Balk, of Clive, IA, Deborah Dolezal, of West Bend, WI, Julie (Brian) Trentz, of Bettendorf, IA, Eric (Stacey) Ruff, of Bettendorf, IA, and Christopher (Deb) Ruff, of Marion, IA;  15 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; siblings Elaine Rapp of Dubuque, Wilma (Jack) Derks of Mesa, AZ and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two granddaughters; a grandson; and his siblings, Harold, Carl “Whitey”, Virginia, Jeanette, Chester “Chet”, Donald, Alma Mae, and Wayne.

Memorials may be given to Saint Patrick’s Church or Power of Prayer.

We would like to give a special thanks to Dr. John Whalen for his care to Phil throughout the years.

Online condolences may be made for the family at hskfh.com.

Thomas P. Urban

Thomas P. “Tom” Urban, age 69 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, June 5, 2019 at MercyOne Dubuque, surrounded by his loving family after a sudden illness.  To celebrate Tom’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date. Burial will be in the Highview Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his loving wife,
Helen Urban, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 adored daughters,
Sheila Gardner, Grand Rapids, Michigan,
Tracy (Chad) Kreimeyer, Asbury, Iowa,
and Emily (Brad) Burchette, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 7 grandchildren,
Alexa (Jeff) Holm, Mitchell Gardner, Alex (Marina) Kreimeyer, Morgan Kreimeyer, Maddie Kreimeyer, Bella Burchette and Brylee Burchette;

his 3 great-grandchildren,
Charlie Holm, Seaver Holm and Ella Kreimeyer;

his siblings,
Diane (Phil) Elliott, Des Moines, Iowa,
Amy (Paul) Ledlow, Cascade, Iowa,
Shirley (Steve) Dolphin, Cascade, Iowa,
Jane Nieland, Ankeny, Iowa,
and Matt (Laurie) Urban, Dubuque, Iowa;

his sister-in-law,
Verna Urban, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Julie Scott; his brother, Mark Urban; and his brother-in-law, Mike Nieland.

Tom’s family would like to sincerely thank Captain Matt and Captain Emily Phelps at the Salvation Army for all of their love and support during these most difficult days, along with the doctors, nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and the Mercy Hospital ICU and Comfort Care Team for all of their professional and genuine care of Tom and his family.

In lieu of flowers, Tom’s family request any donations go to the Dubuque Salvation Army in his memory.

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

Michael P. Snyder

Michael Paul Snyder, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Friday, June 7, 2019 at Manor Care.

A funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Monday, June 10th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Wayne Whittenbaugh officiating. Military honors will follow by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Family and friends may gather after 3:00 p.m. Monday until time of service. Burial will be at a later date in Linwood Cemetery.

Mike was born on October 3, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of David Everett Snyder and Mary Jane Bennett. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1965 and served in the Marines for 3 years. He worked for the former Dubuque Packing company for over 30 years until retirement.

On august 15, 1987 he married Ann Marie Snyder in Dubuque. Michael loved the outdoors and his pride and joy were his six grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Ann; his daughter Kay Ann (Delton) DeBuhr, of Dubuque, Iowa; grandchildren, Lydia, Olivia, Ava, Layla, Hailey, and William. His brother Richard Snyder, of Dubuque; his sister Judy Delgado, of Lincoln, Nebraska along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Tom Snyder; sister-in-law Mary Snyder and brother David Snyder.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Manor Care for all their wonderful care and kindness.

Delbert W. Brehm

Delbert W. “Del” Brehm, age 69, of Potosi, was called home peacefully on Thursday, June 6, 2019, at Edenbrook Platteville, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Del’s life, funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Monday, June 10, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating. To celebrate Del’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m., until the time of services at 6:00 p.m., on Monday, June 10, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Del was born on July 6, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Charles and Alma (Engelken) Brehm.

Del graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1969. After school, Del joined the Army National Guard and went to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri for his training. In 1977, he started farming on his brother’s farm in Durango, before moving to Potosi and buying his own farm in 1980. He would work the farm full time until 1996, but continued to hobby farm. In 1996, he went to work for Lactalis for 16 years, until his well earned retirement. Del truly valued the simple things in life, and cherished spending quiet time alone with his thoughts.

Those left to cherish Del’s memory include

his children,
Dana (William) VanDyke, Appleton, WI
and Derrick (Nicole) Brehm, Potosi, WI;

his grandchildren,
Garrett and Brittney Brehm;

and his siblings,
David (Sherry) Brehm, Durango, IA,
Allan (Debra) Brehm, Durango, IA,
Daniel Brehm, Dubuque,
Carol (Curtis) Dahlke, Earlville, IA
Gary (Karla) Brehm, Farley, IA,
Richard Brehm, Dubuque, IA
and Roger (Lois) Brehm, Earlville, IA.

Del was preceded in death by his parents.

Del’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Mercy Dubuque, Hospice of Grant County and Edenbrook Platteville for all of the care and support they provided Del and his family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities.

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

Michael S. Mattan

Michael S. “Mike” Mattan, age 51 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on Friday, June 7, 2019 at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque. To honor Mike’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at the Grand View United Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, 52002. To celebrate Mike’s life, family and friends may visit prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.  Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 in the Greenview Cemetery, 1201 Avenue of the Cities/Colona Road, East Moline, Illinois, 61244.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on October 12, 1967, in Moline, Illinois, the youngest son of Robert and Donna (Pilcher) Mattan.  Mike truly enjoyed his early years among family and friends, and it didn’t take him long to discover the value of being a gentle soul in this life.  He also realized at a young age that he had a natural affinity for sports; whether it be playing, coaching or enjoying a little time as a spectator.  Baseball was among his favorites and coaching the kids little league teams when they were living in Lawrence, Kansas were some of his fondest memories of the game. When the kids grew and his coaching days had ended, Mike moved quite comfortably into his new role as the #1 J-Hawks fan.  It wasn’t that the Royals and Chiefs weren’t holding tight in his 2nd and 3rd positions, but simply that he had a soft spot which never wavered in that big heart of his for his J-Hawks.

Mike had spent many years working with Papa Murphy’s in Lawrence before he decided it was time to venture out to New Jersey to explore a new chapter in his life.  He eventually returned back to the Dubuque area to be close to family and friends about 10 years ago.  Sadly, health issues found their way into Mike’s life shortly afterwards and the earlier decision to move back became a blessing. The last few years have been very difficult for Mike and his kind and loving light which once shown so brightly in the world around him was slowly finding itself dimmer and dimmer with each passing year he would have to fight.  Mike has touched many lives during his 51 years and the pain those left behind must face today is heart-breaking, but we know and trust that Mike knew his Lord and Savior and that his earthly struggles are now only a memory of his mortal past.  We love you Mike, we will miss you more than you’ll ever know and we can only hope that you are enjoying your new perfect peace found in His grace and love until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his parents,
Robert (Donna) Mattan, Dubuque, Iowa;

his children,
Tyler Mattan, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma,
and Morgan (Luke) Whitaker, Lawrence, Kansas;

his siblings,
Michelle Fitzgibbons, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Kevin (Cathy) Mattan, Tampa, Florida;

along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his grandparents, Albert (Mary) Mattan and Gail (Hollice) Pilcher-Bogart; and his uncle, William “Bill” Mattan.

Mike’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor, Hospice of Dubuque and Mercy Hospital for all of their wonderful care and support of Michael and his family.

In lieu of flowers, a Michael S. Mattan memorial fund has been established which will be donated among his favorite charities.

Online condolences may be shared with Mike’s family atwww.tristatecremationcenter.com

Gary J. Krogman

Gary J. Krogman, 71, of Dyersville passed away Friday, June 7, 2019, at his home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm Monday, June 10, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Tuesday, June 11 from 9-10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery where American Legion Post 137 will accord military honors. Rev. Ralph Davis will officiate.

Gary was born April 29, 1948 in Dyersville, Iowa the son of Joseph and Magdalen (Jaeger) Krogman. He attended Xavier Grade School and High School. Gary married Linda Klostermann on November 23, 1967. He was a PFC (Private First Class) in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1968 – 1971. Gary was a member of the American Legion Post 137 in Dyersville.

Gary worked for Trus-Joist Company in Dubuque and then worked for the City of Dyersville for 28 years until retiring in 2008.

He enjoyed spending time with his family, gardening, camping, fishing at this brothers’ pond, NASCAR and assembling puzzels.

Survivors include his wife, Linda, two daughters: Karie (Lee) Ostwinkle and Stephanie (Scot) Mescher all of Dyersville; one son, Patrick (Karla) Krogman of Davenport; five grandchildren: Allison (Sierra) Ackman, Aaron Ostwinkle, Nathan, Benjamin and Isabella Krogman; two brothers: James Krogman of Worthington, Richard (Debra) Krogman of Dubuque; two sisters: Rose Greenwood of Farley, Verla Turnis of Worthington; in-laws: Helen Krogman Tegeler of Dubuque, Dennis Foxen of Dyersville, Harold Tibbets of Mesquite, NV, Keith (Donna) Klostermann of Hiawatha and many nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Bonnie Krogman, Kathy Foxen, Helen (Gilbert) Bahl, Pearl (Lawrence) Roling, Tom Krogman, David Krogman, Elwood (Eunice) Krogman, Joseph (Toots) Krogman, Leroy Krogman, Mary (George) Sorensen, Carol Tibbets, Vernon (Raynette) Krogman; in-laws: Harold Greenwood, Vernon Trumm, Bev Krogman, Richard Turnis and Father and Mother-in-law, Elmer “Lefty” and Norma Klostermann.

The family would like to thank Bi-County Ambulance, Mercy One and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Amy C, Allison, Edna and Ryan for their care and compassion.

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

Suzanne M. Gassman

Suzanne “Sue” Marie Gassman, 52, of Platteville, WI, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2019, peacefully in her home surrounded by her loved ones.

To celebrate her memorable life, a visitation will be held for friends and family from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, June 10, 2019, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.

Sue was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on May 8, 1967 to her loving parents, Arthur “Buzz” and Helen (Hamilton) Rubie. She attended Dubuque Senior High School, University of Dubuque and Des Moines University, where she received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

Sue married her soulmate and devoted husband, Stephen “Steve”, on October 5, 1991 in Dubuque, Iowa. She was happiest when she was with her family. Her two children, Brook and Cooper, were the light of her life.

Sue had a passion for nature, birds and trees. She also cherished her family vacations, which included her parents, and were often spent doing outdoor activities across the world.

Sue cared about her friends and family before herself and helped anyone who needed her. She wanted everyone to know they should spend their time on the important stuff, to remember to live life to the fullest, and to love unconditionally. One of her favorite quotes was, “I’m not here to be average, I’m here to be awesome!”

Sue was an in-home physical therapist at Finley Hospital in Dubuque for the past 15 years. She especially enjoyed caring for patients in their homes and touched the lives of every patient and family member she met.

Sue was elected into the Dubuque Senior High Athletic Hall of Fame due to her skills in basketball, softball, track, and her hardworking spirit. It was something she was very proud of. She continued to give back by becoming a member of the Dubuque Senior High Athletic Hall of Fame Committee, where she helped choose the next potential members.

Sue is survived by her loving husband, Steve, children, Brook and Cooper, father, Arthur, siblings, Mike (Bonnie), Diane (Dale), and Pat (Laurie), 11 nieces and nephews, many in-laws (and a few outlaws), and other loving family members.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Helen “Mom-o”, who passed away last year. She was also preceded by her beloved dogs Ellie, Buddy, Lady, Sundance and Snoopy.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at Meriter Hospital (Madison, WI) especially Dr. Hei, Dr. Stammer and Dr. Peles, and the staff of Agrace Hospice, for their care and compassion. Special thanks to her loving and devoted nurses, Kat and David at Meriter, and Rylie at Agrace, who made the last few weeks of her life beautiful and comfortable. Thanks also to her extended family and many friends who loved and supported her. The moments of laughter were truly appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be donated to the Grant County Cancer Coalition, who helped Sue and her family during her short battle with cancer.

Calvin J. Buss

Calvin James Buss, age 63, passed into the arms of his Savior following a fatal cardiac event Wednesday, June 5, 2019. Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 8 at the Cathedral of St. Raphael, 231 Bluff St, Dubuque from 9:00 am to 12:45 pm with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 1:00 pm.

Cal was born September 21, 1955 to Carl and Charlene (Patzner) Buss. A lifelong Dubuquer, Cal will forever be remembered as a beloved, hardworking man and as a business owner who grew Vallet Food Service to a successful regional food company and retail operation. For the past eight years he took great pride in his work for Cottingham & Butler, where his co-workers became his extended family.

Cal will never be forgotten by those who had the privilege of knowing this fun, big-hearted man who brought laughter wherever he went. His humor was infectious, and his love was deep and genuine. He was quick-witted and a practical joker who added joy to all situations. He was easy to love and lived every day to the fullest as a faithful follower of Jesus.

Cal was a longtime member of the Dubuque Optimist Club and St. Anthony’s Church. He relished time with his wife Ellie, children, grandchildren, friends and family. Cal will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family and as a caregiver and best friend to his parents. He was a generous host, and loved the Cubs and Packers, taking care of his beautiful Bellevue cottage with his wife, playing games, fishing, grilling and bartending for others. He also enjoyed going to stock car races with family and a good game of euchre.

Surviving are his beloved wife Ellie (Fuerste) Buss, children Jamie (John Swenson) Davis, Brian Buss, and Heather (Casey) O’Mara, stepsons William (Emma Lazore) Miller and Alex (Nicole) Miller, grandchildren Carson O’Mara, Sophia Buss, Weston Miller, and William and Charlotte Miller. Cal was a funny, favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews and a cherished godfather as well.

As the eldest and true patriarch of the Buss family, he left a beautiful legacy and a hole in the hearts of his six siblings: Chris (Betty) Buss, Carla (Tom) Kemp, Connie (Alan) Seeba, Cindy (Tom) McCann, Chuck (Kylie Reiter) Buss, and Clark (Anna) Buss.

Cal was preceded in death by his parents.

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

A Calvin Buss Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Dubuque Fire and Rescue and the Emergency Room staff at Mercy One Dubuque for their care.

Robert J. Hughes

Robert J. “Bob” Hughes, 84, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, June 4, 2019, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating Robert’s life will be held at 10 A.M., Saturday, June 8, 2019, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Friday, June 7, 2019, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, Iowa. Burial will be at the St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Delmar, with military honors. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is in charge of the arrangements.

Robert Joseph Hughes was born on March 22, 1935 in Rural Elwood, Iowa, to Leo and Madeline (LaFayette) Hughes. He was a 1953 graduate of Elwood High School and then entered the U.S. Navy where he honorably served his country being stationed on the USS Destroyer Dashiell. He married Barbara Ellen Wilcox on November 26, 1955 in Delmar, Iowa. Together they had three children: Mark, Cindy and Brian.

“Bob” was a lifelong farmer. He grew up on the family farm in rural Elwood, then moved to Fall River, Massachusetts with his wife Barbara while in the Navy, and upon receiving an honorable discharge, then returned back to the family farm where he lived the remainder of his life.

“Bob” was a member of the Delmar Lions Club, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Menzo Widle American Legion Post #381 of Lost Nation, and in earlier years the Naval Reserve Unit.

“Bob” enjoyed playing cards, rooting for the Chicago Cubs, celebrating his Irish heritage, and traveling with his wife Barbara with a favorite trip being a cruise through the Panama Canal. He always had a joke or story to tell and made new friends wherever he went. He especially enjoyed spending time with his wife, kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Barbara Hughes of Delmar, IA; children, Mark (Michelle) Hughes of Maquoketa, IA, Cindy Hughes (Alan) Chittick of Waunakee, WI, and Brian (Wanda) Hughes of Delmar, IA; 5 grandchildren, Jason (Cailey), Levi, and Bobbie Hughes, Emily and Jesse Chittick; 4 great-grandchildren, Aida, Haiden, and Colt Hughes, and Kaia Chittick; brothers, Paul (Denyse) Hughes of Maquoketa, IA, Dr. Thomas (Mary) Hughes of Geneseo, IL and Dennis (Debbie) Hughes of Park View, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Donald Hughes, and 2 grandchildren, Molly and Elizabeth Hughes.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Robert J. “Bob” Hughes memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert D. McKernan

Robert D. “Rob” McKernan, 40, of Dubuque, IA ran through the gates of Heaven after a long battle with declining health on Tuesday, June 4th, 2019. Rob and his boys were blessed with the gift of one final farewell, which they will cherish forever.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 7th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Rick Hunt officiating. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 6th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque. Private family burial will be at a later date in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Rob was born in Dubuque, IA on June 16th, 1978, the son of Patrick McKernan and Diane Frank. He attended Valley High School, Valley, NE. and Wahlert High School in Dubuque.

On September 18th, 2004, he married Wendy Howard, the love of his life in Dubuque.

Over the years he worked for The Glass Gallery, River City Painting, and most recently, he owned and operated C & C Photo Booths which he proudly named after his boys.

Rob enjoyed fishing, poker and music; he was also very creative and artistic. He had a great sense of humor and wit that had no filter, which some loved and others not so much. But irregardless, that was his love language.

Rob had a huge heart; he was the toughest and softest man. He was a loyal friend. His wife and two boys were his life. Watching superhero movies was their favorite thing to do together, and Rob was certainly their favorite superhero.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy; sons, Carter and Cooper; his mother, Diane (Brian) Drozda; his father, Patrick (Mary) McKernan; brothers, Mike (Maryann) McKernan, Phil (Jenni) McKernan, Matt Fredrickson, Joey (Olivia) McKernan; and a sister, Maggie McKernan; his grandmother, Edna Schiel; his mother-in-law, Peggy Howard; brothers and sisters-in-law, Heather (Bobby) Jungblut, Katie (Eric) Mottet, Lisa Wallace, Scott (Tessa) Howard; grandmother-in-law, Doris O’Neill; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is Preceded in death by Robert Frank, Danny and Ruth McKernan, Eldon Schiel, Bob and Marilyn Drozda, Leo O’Neill, and Steve “Papa” Howard.

The family would like to thank Dr. Whalen and staff, Hospice of Dubuque especially Tammie and Jennie, The Friedman Group, and RiverStone Church for all the care and support they provided for Rob and his family.

Dolores M. Klostermann

Dolores M. “Lori” Klostermann, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa died Wednesday June 5, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 7, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where friends may greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.  Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah will officiate.  Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery, Dyersville. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd. is entrusted with arrangements.

She was born September 5, 1923 in Dyersville, Iowa, daughter of Bernard and Eleanor (Schlichte) Hoeger. She attended school at St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville. On February 4, 1946 she married LeVerne C. Klostermann at St Francis Xavier Basilica Dyersville, Iowa.  He preceded her in death August 20, 1976.  She married Valentine Beyke on April 21, 1979 at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.  He died November 2, 1987.

In her younger years Lori worked at H.B. Glover Company in Dyersville, Iowa making military uniforms to support the war effort.  She also worked at Wahlert High School and the Dubuque Community School District until her retirement.

She was a loving wife, proud mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  She was a long- time member of Sacred Heart Parish in Dubuque and the American Legion Auxiliary in Dubuque. She loved spending her time cooking, baking and dancing.

She is survived by her son John (Lynn) Klostermann, and her daughter-in -law, Lonna Klostermann, all of Dubuque; her grandchildren Nathan (Aimee) Klostermann, Kati (Chris) Averkamp, and Jamie Klostermann; her great- granddaughters Emma Klostermann,  Ella and Nora Averkamp;  and one sister-in-law, Clara Mae Hoeger of Dyersville.

She was preceded in death by her sons Merlin and Wayne Klostermann, her  parents, her siblings and their spouses, Bernard (Katie) Hoeger,  Alfred (Dorothy) Hoeger, Vera (Paul) Curtis, Tony (Gladys) Hoeger, Betty (Roy) Jasper, Joe (Lois) Hoeger , and Frank Hoeger.  She was also preceded in death by her brothers and sisters -in-laws, Bernice (Glen) Merrick, Ervin (Millie) Klostermann, Harold (Millie) Klostermann, Roy (Verna) Klostermann, Elmer(Norma) Klostermann, Erma (Jerry) Olberding, Edna(Elmer) Tegeler and Betty(Ted) Mock.

The family wishes to thank Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Brian Moran for their excellent care.

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

Phyllis J. Speaker

Phyllis JoAnn (Hocking) Speaker, 77, of Menominee, IL passed away on Tuesday June 4th, 2019 peacefully at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center, in Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, IL, with Fr. Dennis Cahill officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 7, 2019 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish Scripture Service will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday. Friends may also call from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

Phyllis was born on April 19th, 1942 in New Diggings, WI to James and Anastacia Hocking. She graduated from Benton High School in 1959, and attended Freeport Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, where she graduated with her degree in 1963.  She started her nursing career at Galena-Stauss Hospital.  She then spent over 30 years at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa, where she then retired.  She also taught for the Galena Volunteer EMT program until her retirement.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, James and Anastacia Hocking, her siblings, Shirley (Hocking) Harris of New Diggins, WI, Darlene (Hocking) Bergeron of Roscoe, IL, James Wesley Hocking of Hazel Green, WI, Jane (Hocking) Alderson of Benton, WI, Alice (Hocking) Smith of Freeport, IL and step-daughter, Angela (Speaker) DeWilfond of Moline, IL.

She is survived by her husband Robert Speaker, who she married on May 18th, 1990, her daughter , Sheri (Linda) Anger of Galena, IL, her son, Daniel (Theresa) Anger of Rochester, MN, her stepson, Jeff (Renee) Speaker of Menominee IL, step-daughter, Laurie (James) Rohner of Bettendorf IA, brother William Hocking of Galena, IL.  Phyllis is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

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