Obituaries Archive

Carol Sue Wild

Carol Sue Wild, 73, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, May 22, 2019, at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, May 25, 2019 at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 to 10:30 A.M. at First Lutheran church in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Carol Sue Gerischer was born on November 16, 1945 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Paul Gerischer and Dorothy (Ralston) Gerischer. She was a 1964 graduate of Andrew High School. She married Richard “Dick” Wild on June 6, 1965 at Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew, Iowa.

Carol Sue had worked at Operation New View in Maquoketa for 16 years, had also driven for the RTA, and worked at DAC, Inc. in Maquoketa. Additionally, she and her husband had run a food pantry from their home in Andrew for several years.

Carol Sue was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. She was very active with her time and volunteered for several area organizations. She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, and baking cakes on special occasions for people.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Richard “Dick” Wild of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jim (Marla) Wild of St. Louis, MO, Steve (Rosa) Wild of Algonquin, IL, Brian (Michelle) Wild of Ames, IA, and Mark (Amy ) Wild of Boonville, MO; 8 grandchildren; a brother, Rick (Diane) Gerischer of Maquoketa, IA; and sisters, Gail Guckenburger of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Nancy (Dale) Kilburg of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter, brothers Bill Gerischer and David Gerischer, and a sister Joan Gerischer.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Carol Sue Wild memorial fund has been established.

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

Carl H. Engling

Carl H. Engling, age 91, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 1:40 p.m., on Monday, May 20, 2019, at ManorCare Health Services, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Carl’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2145 JFK Road, with Rev. Kristian Kincaid officiating. To celebrate Carl’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Carl was born on November 3, 1927, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, son of John and Bernadette (Brimeyer) Engling.

Carl was born and raised in North Buena Vista before moving to Dubuque and then to Sioux City, Iowa in September of 1983 for work. He was united in marriage to Virginia Francois on June 17, 1950, in Dubuque, and together they were blessed with 11 children. Carl was a hard worker and devoted his time and talents to many places beginning with the The Shoe Factory during WWII, then on to General Dry Battery and State Brand Creamery, before becoming part owner of The Hollywood Grill in the 1960’s. He would then go on to work at Old Timer’s, The Circle, Timmerman’s, Dubuque Packing Company, PSSI and finally with Iowa Pork Producers, until his well earned retirement at age 75. Family was always Carl’s main priority in life, and he cared for his son, Allen, who suffers with Cerebral Palsy, for several years. When he did manage to find some free time in his days, Carl loved to go fishing, always filling his bucket to the brim, or spending the afternoon in the kitchen whipping up something delicious for Virginia and the kids. His soups were famous and always a hit with everyone! Carl was quite the Euchre player, you never wanted to be on the opposing team, and was an accomplished bowler in his younger days. He was a jokester who loved teasing everyone in good jest, and could keep you captivated for hours with his entertaining stories. Carl also occasionally enjoyed trying his luck picking the winning dog at the Dubuque Greyhound Park. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother and uncle, but know that he is now reunited with all of our family members that have already been called home.

Those left to cherish Carl’s memory include

his children,
Carlyn Root, Tolleson, AZ,
Diane (Robert) Cook, Dubuque, IA,
Denise (Randal) Parsons Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Ken (Tracy) Engling, Moline, IL,
Carl (Dianne) Engling, Dubuque, IA,
Helen DeAnda, Sioux City, IA,
Kevin Engling, Sioux City, IA,
David Engling, Sioux City, IA,
Vincent (Thao) Engling, Columbia, SC
and Allen Engling, Sioux City, IA;

his 24 grandchildren;

numerous great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Marcella Travis, Dubuque, IA,
Helen (Archie) Molzof, Dubuque, IA,
Leon (Kathy) Engling, Bettendorf, IA,
Donald (Alice) Engling, Whitewater, WI
and Cindy Ohnesorge, Dubuque, IA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Mary Engling, Freeport, IL,
Shirley Engling, Freeport, IL
and Mary Engling, East Dubuque, IL.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 55 years, Virginia Engling, a son, Michael Engling; a son-in-law, Felimon DeAnda; his siblings, Gerald (Jenny) Engling, Louisa (Harold) Kirby, Irene (Carl) Ruff, Theresa (Theodore “T.J.”) Huekels, Ray Engling, Alfred Engling Sr., Joyce (Karl) Miller and David Engling; and a brother-in-law, Jim Travis.

Carl’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Carl and his entire family.

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

Maynard H. Meier

Maynard H. Meier, 92, of Preston, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 24, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Friday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Maynard was born January 30, 1927 in rural Jackson County, the son of Edward and Frances (Fens) Meier. He attended a one room rural school in Washington Township, where he described himself as the fastest runner in the school. Maynard served his country in the US Army during the Korean War 1950-1952 in combat on the front line as a forward observer in a heavy mortar company of the 24th Infantry Division. Maynard felt considerable pride in his service, and in 2013 flew in an Honor Flight out of the Quad Cities. He married Yvonne Greve on November 26, 1955 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Maynard was a lifelong farmer on a Century Farm, member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Bellevue American Legion Post #273. He found enjoyment attending his children and grandchildren’s events, woodworking, and spending time with his family. One of his favorite pastimes was dancing with Yvonne. Even after retirement from active farming, he continued to raise chickens and cared for the farm cats.

Survivors include his wife, Yvonne; children, Randy (Chris) Meier, Ken (Sandy) Meier, Thomas (Kathy) Meier, Ann (Mark) Bormann, and Lisa (Paul) Hammond; grandchildren, Ellen (David Celichowski) Meier, Katherine (Johnny Dedrick)Meier, Emily Meier, Derek Meier, Elizabeth (Colin Larson) Meier, Lance Meier, Kelcie Bormann, Colton Bormann, Nicole (Dan Kuhl) Hammond, Erika Hammond, and Sean Hammond; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Marilyn Meier, Jeanette Gruhn, Visetta Leonard, Les (Shirley) Greve, Donna (Don) Galusha, and Will (Glorianne) Greve.

Maynard was preceded death by his parents and siblings, Robert and Leo (Mavis) Meier.

A memorial fund has been established in Maynard’s memory.

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

Anthony J. Runde

Anthony (Tony) J. Runde, age 85, of Hazel Green WI, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2019, at Epione Pavilion, Cuba City WI, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 25th, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Sinsinawa, WI, with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Visitation will be 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 24th, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday. Friends may also call from 8:45 to 9:45 am Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Tony was born on October 10, 1933 in Hazel Green WI, son of Lawrence and Frances (Fleege) Runde.

He married Mary Ann Ploessl on November 7, 1953 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Glen Haven WI. She preceded him in death on November 26, 2016. Tony and Mary Ann farmed in rural Cuba City for over 50 years and he operated Runde Insurance for 54 years. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish and Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus, Hazel Green Township Board, Grant County Board of Supervisors (Orchard Manor, County Farm and Law Enforcement Committees) and Jamestown Mutual Insurance Board.

Tony was a loving husband, father and grandfather. We could always count on dad to drop everything when anyone in the family needed him. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He was always up for a good game of six-handed euchre. Farming was an important part of dad’s life and he was proud that 2019 marks the Centennial year of the family farm.

He is survived by his children, Greg (Kay) of Cuba City, Linda (Dan) Nelson of La Crosse, Dennis (Jan Leiser) of Hazel Green, Diane (Dave) Pluym of Hazel Green and Deb (Roger) Hoppenjan of Cuba City. Grandchildren: Brett (Laurie) Runde, Amanda (Jamie) Vaassen, Hannah (Jeremy) Brant, Nathan (Kelsey) Runde, TJ (Courtney) Runde, Garrett (fiance’ Ilina Datkhaeva), Evan (fiance’ Kym Fritz) and Connor (friend April Frickson) Pluym, Cody (fiance’ Molly Wubben), Jenna (friend Dakota Lovell) and Ryan Hoppenjan, 16 great-grandchildren with one on the way and a sister, Mary Lou Tressel.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, a granddaughter, Courtney Runde; a great grandson, Carter Runde, his brothers, Joseph and Ralph and his sisters, Helen Meyer and Dorothy Burbach.

In lieu of flowers, an Anthony (Tony) Runde memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Tony’s family would like to thank Dr. Sullivan, Dr. White and the staff at Medical Associates, his caretakers, Mary Kay, Sara, Maddy and Ashley, the staff at Epione Pavilion and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

Richard J. Hoell

Richard J. “Cookie” Hoell, Jr, 55, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2019 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, IL. There will be no public visitation. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Richard was born on October 7, 1963 in Dubuque, the son of Richard J. and Joan (Knobbe) Hoell, Sr.

Surviving are two children, Kali Hoell and Trevor Hoell both of Galena; his mother Joan Schroeder of Dubuque; and two sisters, Laura (Glenn) Anderson of Las Vegas, NV, and Deborah Smith of Burlington, NC.

He was preceded in death by his father, grandparents, John & Eleanor Hoell, and Harry & Viola Knobbe, and step-father, Richard Schroeder, Sr.

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

Robert W. Ridgeway

Robert W. Ridgeway, 75, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, May 16, 2019, at UnityPoint Finley in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 am Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Dyersville where military honors will be accorded by Legion Post 137.

Robert was born February 6, 1944, in Pascagoula, Mississippi the son of Wallace and Gladys (Faust) Ridgeway. He served in the Navy 1962-1964. He married Sheila Curtis Little on December 10, 1980, in Dyersville, Iowa.

He was a mechanic on the heavy equipment used by road and bridge construction crews and he ran the Dyersville Super 8 Hotel for five years. His favorite hobby was building model trucks, including working RC pulling tractors.

Robert is survived by his wife, Sheila, his children Jackie Jay of Holt, FL, Carol (Mark) Cooper of Sevierville, TN, Norma Jean (Casey) Muntz of Guttenberg, IA, and Rob (Mary) Ridgeway, Jr. of Dubuque, IA, and step sons Jeff (Tracy) Little of Dubuque, and Jody (Nicki) Little of Las Vegas, NV, 23 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; and in-laws: Gene (Julie) Curtis of Marion, IA, Diane Courtney, Alan (Mary Kay) Curtis and Yvonne Younes, all of Dubuque.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Karl (Maggie) Hoffman, his parents-in-law, Paul and Vera Curtis, and a sister-in-law, Barbara (Ed) Kirner.

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

Lois Ellwanger

Lois Dick Ellwanger of 3175 Pennsylvania Ave, Dubuque, IA, formerly of 2184 Bennett St. died Sunday morning May 19th at Luther Manor surrounded by family.

A visitation will be held Tuesday May 21st from 4-8 pm at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home at 2659 JFK Rd. Friends may also call from 9:30-10:15 am on Wednesday May 22nd at St. Peter Lutheran Church. Services will be Wednesday May 22nd at St. Peter Lutheran at 10:30 am, 3200 Asbury Rd. Burial will be held following the service at Linwood Cemetery.

The former Lois Marie Dick was born on July 29, 1923 in Dubuque to Carl Moritz Dick and Viola Hocking Dick. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1941. She married Milton Ellwanger on April 26, 1951 at St. Mark Lutheran Church. On that day Lois took into her heart his two small daughters. Their union produced two additional children.

She was employed in various banking positions for many years until her marriage. After her marriage she stayed home to help raise the children. In later years she worked as a receptionist in an architectural firm.

For most of her life she was an active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church and taught Sunday School there for over 30 years. She remained a member until the church closed in the late 1980’s. She was also an active member of the Luther Manor Auxiliary for 35 years, a volunteer at Finley hospital for 27 years and joined the Lois Club at its inception in the late 1980’s.

At the time of her high school class 20th year of graduation, she formed a committee which kept the addresses of the 306 class members and planned and executed a large reunion every 5 years for 45 years.

Survivors include her four children -Milton’s two daughters Virginia Sheets of Dixon, IL, Arline Oliver of Omaha NE, her son Tom (Pat) Ellwanger of Dubuque and Wendy (Dudley) Nelson of Michigan, her sister Marjorie Schultz of Dubuque, her sister-in-law Mary Dick of Edina, MN. She also has 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren (soon to be 11), and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Milton, a brother Richard Dick, a grandson Aaron Michael Strong, 2 sons in law, Gerald Oliver and Donald Sheets and 3 sisters in law, Jane Kaune, Bette Weidenbacher and Lorraine Davis.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be given to the St. Mark Community Center, St. Peter Lutheran Church, Luther Manor, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank to Dr. Randall Lengeling, Dr. John Whalen and Dr. Todd Spurling for their care of Lois over many years.

Rose E. Hall

Rose E. Hall, age 93 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at Luther Manor Community in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family. To celebrate Rose’s life, private family services are being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rose’s family.

Rose was born on October 11, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa, a daughter to David Lusk “Luck” and Gladys Delyte (Enabnit) Wilkie. She had discovered very early in life that teaching children was the goal she desired to work towards. After graduating from high school, Rose proceeded onto college and successfully completed her teaching certification. Rose joyfully spent the next 42 years of her life working in the Dubuque Community School District where not only were her career dreams fulfilled, but without realizing it her imprint and impact on countless children throughout the community would continue to carry her legacy forward for generations to come.

She enjoyed almost every day she was in the classroom, but Rose also understood the value of her free-time outside of work. Socializing with her friends during a friendly game of Bridge was always a welcomed event, but relaxing in solitude at the sewing machine, or even getting comfortable on her couch with a knitting needle or a good book were also some of her favorite ways to pass the time. The absolute favorite hours she would ever indulge in though were the opportunities she was able to simply sit and catch-up with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rose’s eyes lit up every time her grandkids were near, and thankfully her heart was replenished with an abundance of love by time they left her side again. Rose was a relentlessly gentle soul who embraced all that was good in the world. She generously shared her kindnesses without ever expecting anything in return and in turn set a beautiful example for all who knew and loved her. Our hearts are broken at the mere thought that we will not see Rose again in this life, but we know and trust that the memories she leaves behind will carry us through until we do finally get to see her again. Thank you for being an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, teacher and friend Rose and may the Lord bless you for all of the positive light you spread so freely upon the world around you!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rose include,

her children,
Bruce (Jenny) Hall, Cincinnati, Ohio,
Cindy (Lee) Scovanner, Cincinnati, Ohio,
Debra “Deb” Finn, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Kimberly (Doug) Stickney, Dubuque, Iowa;

her 12 grandchildren,
Austin (Tina) Hall, Amelia Hall, Anna Hall, Cassandra (Mark) Bloom, Johnathan Scovanner, Melissa Scovanner, Chad Finn, Brian Finn, Anthony (Lori) Finn, Gregory Finn, Caitlin (Nic) Mortelliti and Christopher Stickney;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Connor Finn, Avery Finn, Olivia Mortelliti and Baby Bloom who will be joining us in early June;

along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents and 2 siblings, David (Opal) Wilkie and Delores (“Salt”) Alderson.

Memorial donations may be made in Rose’s name, to be applied to the Ryan Scovell XXYY Research Fund, through the XXYY Foundation at www.genetic.org/donatenow/donate

Rose’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they provided to Rose, and her family.

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

Marianne Hurlburt

Marianne (Klein) Hurlburt 82 of Dubuque passed away at 4:25 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2019 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church with Fr. Steve Rosonke officiating, burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the Leonard Funeral home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

She was born on August 30, 1936 in Rickardsville, Iowa the daughter of Herman and Irene (Ritt) Klein and attended school in Rickardsville. She married John “Jack” Hurlburt on June 29, 1955 at Saint Joseph Church in Rickardsville. Together they shared 64 years of marriage.

She began her working career teaching pre-school in Dubuque and later owned and operated Plants by Marianne in Sherrill. Many knew her as the “Flower Lady” and could often be found at the Farmers Market displaying her plants and flowers.
After living in the Balltown & Sherrill area for 21 years they moved to Guttenberg for 9 years and then Key West for 14 years until finally moving to Applewood 3 in Dubuque.

They also spent 13 retirement years in Mission Texas where she served as Secretary of the Pleasant Valley Park.
Marianne never had a bad word to say about anybody. She enjoyed animals and nature especially being outdoors, camping, fishing, and gardening. Cooking and baking were some of her favorite things to do. For 25 years she looked forward to her “sister trips” where many great memories were created. She also had a special relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary.

She is survived by her husband John “Jack” Hurlburt; three sons Timothy Hurlburt, of East Dubuque, Scott (Shellie) Hurlburt, of Schapville, IL, Kent (Kim) Hurlburt, of Waterloo; a daughter Dr. Holly (Mike) McLain of Kansas City KS; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; sisters Betty (James) Coohey, and Carol (Don) Bluml, of Dubuque and Elaine (Ron) Foht, of Milan, IL; a sister-in-law Rosie (Dan) Klein, of Luxembourg, IA and 22 nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents Herman & Irene Klein; her in-laws Art & Marie Hurlburt; a brother Danny Klein and two sisters, Alice (Vince) Brimeyer, and Nancy Klein.

In lieu of flowers a Marianne Hurlburt memorial fund has been established.

Marianne wishes to express a special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, aides, and technicians that helped her through this ordeal. Especially to Dr. Eric Engelman and staff, and Dr. Jerod Freiburger at Medical Associates; the University of Iowa Hospital; the Wendt Regional Cancer Center; and Amy and Angie with Hospice of Dubuque for all their care and compassion.

Gerald I. Link

Gerald “Jerry” Irvin Link, 74 of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully surrounded by family members on Thursday, May 16th at ManorCare in Dubuque, IA.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 21st, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home until time of service. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

He was born in Dubuque, IA and served in the US Army as an airplane mechanic, repairing helicopters, from 1965 to 1967. He married in 1969 and had 3 children. Jerry never wanted anyone to make a fuss over him and considered others first before his own needs. During his younger years, his greatest memory was building and racing his sand dune buggy. He enjoyed repairing motors and having good times with close friends and family. He also enjoyed hauling freight and golf carts as a semi-truck driver for many years.

Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory include: his wife of 50 years, Phyllis Link, of Dubuque, IA; his daughters, Patty Berrier, of North English, IA and Cathy Copic, of Des Moines, IA; his son, Eric Link, of Ankeny, IA; his brothers, James Link, of Dubuque, IA, David Link, of Dubuque, IA, and Greg Link, of Dubuque, IA; his sisters, Joy Behnke, of Dubuque, IA, Carol Link, of Dubuque, IA, and Jean Kohn, of Dubuque, IA; several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws, & close friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; Esther and Marion Link.

Donald J. Stecher

Donald J. Stecher, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 15th, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 20th, 2019 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Tom McDermott officiating and brother Rev. John Stecher concelebrating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with full military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, May 19th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service and rosary will be held at 2:00 p.m.

Don was born on June 9th, 1938 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of John and Servina (Pfohl) Stecher. He served in the United States Army as Sergeant First Class and was a member of the American Legion Post #6. He was active in the Army Reserves where he taught classes in terrain analysis.
Don worked for Dubuque Insulation and Siding Co. and was a lifelong farmer. He started at the age of seven helping on the family farm. Don loved what he did and worked until he was forced to retire due to illness at the age of 74.

Don married Marilyn Brune on October 14, 1978 at St. Joseph The Worker. They have five children and eleven grandchildren. Don’s grandchildren will miss Papa’s hugs when they come in the door and playing Old Maid with him. He loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn; three sons John (Lindsay) Stecher, of Jersey City, NJ, Jim (Beth) Stecher, of Dubuque, IA and Mike (Anna) Stecher, of Bettendorf, IA; two daughters Michelle (John) Hamilton, of Dubuque, IA, and Jenny Stecher, of Chicago, IL. Eleven grandchildren, Jack and Gemma Stecher, Olivia, Hannah, AJ and Henry Stecher, Isla and Marin Stecher, Tyler, Isabel and Tanner Hamilton. Sisters Jeanette Hohmann, of Dubuque, IA, and Carol Wagner, of Washington, MO and his brother Fr. John Stecher, of Davenport, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his parents John and Servina Stecher.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman and the oncology nurses, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Amy, Scott, Ryan and Suzanne; and to all the health care professionals, family and friends who helped care for Don.

Ronald L. Hanson

Ronald L. (Ron) Hanson, age 66 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey peacefully on Sunday, May 12, 2019 at Dubuque Specialty Care after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. To honor Ron’s life, a private family service is being held. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ron’s family.

Ron was born on December 25, 1952, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Harold and Lois (Walsh) Hanson. Growing up in Dubuque, Ron attended Hempstead High School followed by the University of Dubuque. Ron worked in a variety of management and sales positions throughout his career.

Ron was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Bears fan and rarely missed a televised football or basketball game. Ron also enjoyed a love of baseball and had dual loyalty to both the Oakland A’s and Chicago Cubs. Ron played softball for nearly 40 years and enjoyed spending time outdoors including hunting both for deer and morel mushrooms and summers fishing on the Mississippi River. Ron’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Hospice of Dubuque, for the compassion and caring support they provided to Ron.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ron include,
his mother,
Lois (Walsh) Hanson, Dubuque, Iowa;

his ex-wife,
Rosie Hanson, Dubuque, Iowa;

his three children,
Keri (Kent Eiler) Hanson, New York, NY,
Cory (Sara) Hanson of Colorado Springs, Colorado,
and Kyle Hanson of Mankato, Minnesota;

Ron will also be remembered by his three brothers,
Randy (Karen) Hanson of Dubuque, Iowa,
Dan (Beth) Hanson of Brentwood, Tennessee,
and Jim Hanson of Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harold Hanson, Ron’s father, preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Online condolences can be shared with Ron’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

John M. McDonald, III

John Manderson “Honest John” McDonald, III, 88, former Chairman of the Board and CEO of A. Y. McDonald Industries, Dubuque, IA and President of Brock-McVey Co., Lexington, widower of Barbara Burnham McDonald, his wife of 36 years, died at his residence Monday after a long illness.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Born in Dubuque, he was the son of the late John Manderson and Eleanor Wood McDonald, Jr.

He was a graduate of Phillips Academy and Yale University before joining the U. S. Air Force in 1952, becoming a 1st Lt. while serving as a Jet Fighter Pilot for five years. In 1957 He joined the A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. in Dubuque where he spent his career. In 1964 he moved to Lexington to also serve as President of Brock-McVey Co.

John served on numerous boards in both Dubuque and Lexington. In Dubuque he served on the board of First National Bank, Dubuque Bank and Trust, American Trust, A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Dubuque United Fund where he was Campaign Chair and Chairman of the Board, Finley Hospital, YMCA where he was chairman of the Fund drive for three years, The Dubuque Summer Festival where he served as co-chairman, the Dubuque Boy’s Club, Clark College Advisory Board, Clarke College Development Council where he served as Co-Chairman of the Capital Fund Drive, Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque Shooting Society where he served as secretary, Plantation Development Corporation, Public Utilities Company and Uniflow Gas Co.

Before moving to Kentucky, he was a member of his family’s church, First Congregational UCC.

John was a member of Lexington Rotary Club, Keeneland Club, Idle Hour Country Club, Lexington Club and had been an avid hunter, golfer and fisherman.

He is survived by his son, John Manderson (Julie) McDonald, IV; two daughters, Mary McDonald Gray (David) and Martha McDonald Coyle (and friend Donnie Anderson); seven grandchildren, Christopher Scott McDonald, Hollie Wood Coyle, Anna Catherine McDonald, Grace Elizabeth McDonald and John Manderson “Quint” McDonald, V, all of Lexington and Barbara Ellen McDonald and Amanda McDonald Scales-Conklin (Dalton), both of Lawrenceburg, his former daughter-in-law, Amy McDonald Ruble and a special and devoted friend, Becky Planck, Lexington.

He was preceded in death by two children, Scott Andrew McDonald and Heather Young McDonald and his sister, Margaret McDonald Humphrey.

Memorials to Blue Grass Community Foundation, 499 E. High St., Ste. 112, Lex. 40507, Lex. Rotary Endowment Fund, 401 W. Main, Suite 305, Lex. 40507 or YMCA, 239 E. High St. Lex., 40507.

Gilbert F. Beringer

Gilbert “Gib” F. Beringer, 75, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Gib may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m., Dyersville American Legion services will be held at 7 p.m. and Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2019 at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Ralph E. Davis presiding. Burial will be held at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

Gib was born on June 7, 1943 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Nicholas and Bernice (Schlarman) Beringer. He received his education in the rural country schools. On May 4, 1968 he was united in marriage to Sue Ann Urbain at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.

Gib was a Veteran having served in the Army National Guard for 6 years. He drove milk truck for several years and owned and operated the Dyersville Redemption Center where he earned the nickname “The Can Man” for 10 years. He also was a RTA Bus driver for 12 years.

Gib was a simple family man. His biggest loves were his wife, daughters and grandchildren. He was a strong, proud, hardworking man with a very soft heart. Gib was an avid Chicago Cubs Fan. He loved to play cards with anyone and was known for his sense of humor.

He was a member of Basilica St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, IA. Gib was also a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137 and the Dyersville Knights of Columbus Council #1734.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sue Ann Beringer of Dyersville, IA; four daughters, Janelle (Eric) Spellerberg of Newton, IA, Angela (Norman) Millman, Melissa Beringer (Special Friend, Kevin Campbell) both of Dubuque, IA and Amanda (Doug) Funke of Dyersville, IA; 8 grandchildren, Nathan and Nicholas Spellerberg, Hunter and Tanner Millman, Courtney and Charlotte Beringer, Gabbi and Grace Funke; his mother, Bernice Beringer of Dyersville, IA; two sisters, Kate (Ron) Leifker of Greenville, Tx, Bonnie (Steve) Brimeyer of Farley, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Celester Rausch of Epworth, IA, Bernie (Mary) Urbain, Bob (Jean) Urbain, Judy M. Koppes, Julie Urbain, Nancy (John) Kramer, Jeff (Sandy) Urbain, Wanda (Dave) Roberts, Sarah (Tim) Ells; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; two sisters, Joyce Beringer in infancy and Betty Rausch; father and mother-in-law, Earl and Gertrude Urbain, brothers-in-law, Dave Koppes and Mark Urbain; goddaughter, Kathy Ann Rausch.

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

Gerald J. Schlarmann

Phoenix, Arizona – Gerald Joseph Schlarmann “Jerry”, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away March 2, 2019, at his son’s home in Phoenix surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born on July 16, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, oldest son of Louis Bernard and Mary (Jurisic) Schlarmann.

Jerry could fix nearly anything from plumbing and home repair to welding and woodworking. He built fantastic furniture from oak, walnut and cherry and enjoyed helping others with their projects.

Jerry attended Sacred Heart School. After school and up to age 18 he worked for Dr. Shortell and considered dentistry at one time. In 1958 he started work at the Dubuque Pack and worked there nearly 44 years until the plant was closed. He was happy to say he did almost every job at the plant and often told stories about cooking food on the steam pipes for dinner.

On Oct 30, 1965 he married Vicki Lee Remy at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Vicki made sure he completed his education and Jerry got his GED in 1983 and an advanced welding certification in 1985. Jerry also worked part-time in law enforcement for the cities of Worthington, Epworth and Farley until his retirement. During retirement he built lots of furniture and every winter he drove from Dubuque to Phoenix with his dogs Lilli and later Oscar to spend time with his granddaughter.

Surviving are his son, Tom (Tegan) of Phoenix, AZ; one granddaughter, Tori. Three sisters: Darlene, Mary Lee (Bill) Miller and Kay (Gary) Nauman, sister-in-law Debbie (Basten) Schlarman and many nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held at Mt Calvary Chapel. Burial at Mt Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Vicki (Nov 2, 2003); his parents Mary (Jan 15, 1981) and Louis (Oct 1, 1981) and his brother, James Arthur (Nov 8, 2007).

His family wishes to thank the staff at Stone Hill Care Center, Chandler Regional Hospital and East Valley Hospice for their care and support. Special thanks to his sisters and cousin Pat for watching over Jerry in his later years.