Obituaries Archive
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David N. Joy

David N. “Dave” Joy, age 57, of Kieler, Wisconsin, was called home suddenly at 7:18 a.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center-Dubuque, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Dave’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, February 16, 2018, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Kieler, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard E. Rott officiating. To celebrate Dave’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 15, 2018, at the Parish Center at the Immaculate Conception Church, 3685 County Road HHH, Kieler, Wisconsin, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 2:45 p.m., and also from 9:30 a.m., until the time of services at 10:30 a.m., on Friday at the Church. Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.
Dave was born on July 6, 1960, in Eastman, Wisconsin, son of Bernard and Norene (Wanamaker) Joy.
Dave grew up on the family farm, but would eventually venture off after high school to continue his education and soon begin his career in the Ag dealership industry with the John Deere dealership in Bloomington. While living there, he would meet, and within a year, marry the love of his life, Terri Wilgenbusch. They were united in marriage on July 20, 1985, at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville, Iowa. Dave continued to work in Bloomington until a position at the John Deere Dealership in Cuba City caught his eye. The family decided to move to continue down Dave’s career path and began establishing more family roots in their new community. Dave eventually discovered his final working destination at Ritchies Case/IH dealership in Darlington. Dave absolutely enjoyed his new position and was able to put his “natural people skills” to good use. He not only knew his business inside and out, but also knew everyone around him, most by name, and always had a kind word for all he dealt with. Dave was a fun loving man, with a great sense of humor, who was often referred to as a “big kid” himself. Dave was well known for his uncanny ability to get right down on the floor and play with his kids when they were small, and now that tradition continues with his grandkids. Dave also had a great appreciation for photography and was well known for “stopping” alongside the road to take a quick photo of a spectacular sunrise to share with his family and friends. Above all though, Dave loved his family and the simple pleasures in life. He made sure no one ever doubted his love and devotion for them through both his words and actions. We are devastated at the sudden loss of our dear husband, dad, grandpa, brother and friend; but we know and trust that he will be watching over us through each and every day as the sun continues to rise and set on the abundance of beautiful memories he leaves behind. Thank you Dave for all of the real love and JOY you shared so easily along your much too short 57 year earthly journey with us. Our lives will never be the same without you, and they are definitely better because of you!
Those left to cherish Dave’s memory include
his wife,
Terri Joy, Kieler, WI;
his children,
Amanda (Zach) Duerksen, Dubuque, IA,
Heather Joy, Kieler, WI,
Melissa (Brad) Huekels, Asbury, IA
and Tyler Joy, Kieler, WI;
his grandsons,
Noah Duerksen and Archer Huekels;
,his siblings,
Mike (Sharon) Joy, Oconomowoc, WI,
Mary (Greg) Fisher, Eastman, WI,
Jim (Sharon) Joy, Fond du Lac, WI,
Rob (Trudy) Joy, Eastman, WI,
Mark Joy, Eastman, WI,
Julie (Michael) Garcia Joy, Mc Clean, VA
and Pat (Vicki) Joy, Eastman, WI;
his in-laws,
Eldon (Gin) Wilgenbusch, Rickardsville, IA;
and many nieces and nephews.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents.
A David N. “Dave” Joy memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.
Dave’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the 1st Responders from Dickeyville and Jamestown, the Grant County Sheriff Department, Dr. Ram, and everyone in the Mercy Cardiac Unit and Emergency Room, for all of their kind, professional and attentive care of Dave, and his entire family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com
Mary Elizabeth Eiffes

Mary Elizabeth (Block) Eiffes, 75, died on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at home surrounded by her loving family.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, at Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque, with the Rev. Andrew Marr officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation with family and friends will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, February 16, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Key West.
Mary was born October 2, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Matilda Spark. She married Richard R. Block on October 10, 1964, and to this union four children were born. She later married Paul J. Eiffes on September 27, 2008.
Mary graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1960. She went to work at Frommelt’s, working as a seamstress, and continued working there when the company was later purchased by Rite Hite. After retiring from Rite Hite, she continued to work part time at Home Instead, helping to care for people so they could remain in their homes.
Mary’s faith was strong, and she was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and later Church of the Resurrection. She loved traveling, and her trips with Paul and her children and grandchildren included Mexico, Punta Cana and Disney World. She enjoyed hosting for holidays and family events. There was never a shortage of food when Mary was planning a family trip or meal.
Mary was devoted to her family. She lovingly raised her children and adored her grandchildren, faithfully attending their activities and performances. She was very proud of all of their achievements. She will be dearly missed by all those who loved her.
Mary is survived by her husband, Paul; her first husband, Richard; her children, Richard (Kathy) Block Jr., of Dubuque, Maryjo (Michael) Williams, of Asbury, Karla (John) Scherf, of Dubuque, and David (Amy) Block, of Dubuque; 17 grandchildren, Hunter, Jackson and Landon Block, Madisyn and Brooklyn Bennett, Noah McGowan, Michaela, Allison, Cassandra and Nathaniel Williams, and Cody, Logan, Natalie, Robert, Justin and Tyler Scherf; Kadin Perry; a great-grandchild on the way; her sister, Patricia (David) Cosley, of Dubuque; and her nieces, Lysa Cosley, of Dubuque, and Lynda (Scott) Bohlmann, of Cedar Falls.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.
The family would like give a special thank-you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sarah for her care and compassion for Mary.
Mary A. Hinkel

Mary A. Hinkel, age 89, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 2:55 p.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Mary’s life, funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 17, 2018, at St. Columbkille’s Church, 1230 Rush Street, with Rev. Gabriel C. Anderson officiating. To celebrate Mary’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, February 16, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.
Mary was born on September 18, 1928, in Farley, Iowa, daughter of Fred and Katherine (Mueller) Berberich.
Mary attended St. Mary’s Grade School and went on to graduate from the Immaculate Conception Academy, Class of 1946. Over the years, Mary always looked forward to reconnecting with her friends at the alumnae banquets. Mary was united in marriage to the love of her life, Kenneth Hinkel, on June 27, 1964, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. The two have been truly blessed with 4 deeply adored children, and 53 wonderful years together. Mary was raised with a strong work ethic and earnestly invested over 14 years of her working career as an assistant to the late Dr. Robert J. McNamara, Urologist. Even after her retirement, Mary would remain active in the medical field by volunteering at Mercy Hospital for over 20 years. She cherished her role as wife, mother and homemaker, who took great pride in making sure her family was well taken care of and her home was always welcoming. In her free time, Mary enjoyed being outdoors soaking in the warm sun and also putting her green thumb to work as a volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum for over 18 years. Her faith was very important to her and she was a loyal and long-time member of St. Columbkille’s Church. Before that, she and her family were members of St. Mary’s Church, where she continually embraced every opportunity to serve others within her church. Family, however, was the one thing in this world which brought Mary the greatest joy; any time she was able to spend with them was precious and time well spent to her. We are deeply saddened at the loss of such a wonderful wife, mother, sister and friend, but we know that one day we will all be reunited again to gather together forever at our eternal family reunion.
Mary looked for the best in others, and gave the very best she had.
Those left to cherish Mary’s memory include
her loving husband,
Kenneth Hinkel, Dubuque, IA;
her children,
Barbara Hinkel,
Karen (Brian Besler) Hinkel,
and Deborah (Michael) Boland, all of Dubuque, IA;
and her sisters,
Lillian Bowden,
Katherine Beecher
and Connie Weis, all of Dubuque, IA.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; a son, John Joseph Hinkel; and her brothers-in-law, Joseph Bowden and Dave Weis.
A Mary A. Hinkel memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.
Mary’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital for their outstanding care of Mary, and her family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com
Lucas A. Kalb

Lucas Anthony “Luke” Kalb, age 32 of Dubuque, Iowa was called home after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, February 10th at Finley Hospital, surrounded by his family.
To honor Luke’s life, funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Thursday, February 15th, 2018 at St. Coulmbkille’s Church, 1230 Rush Street, with Rev. John J. O’Connor officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.
To celebrate Luke’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.
Luke was born on November 18, 1985, in Dubuque Iowa, son of Peter and Kathy (Ferris) Kalb.
He was a 2004 graduate from Senior High School, where he was a 4 sport letter winner, playing football, basketball, soccer, and baseball.
After high school Luke continued his education at North Iowa Area Community College where he played both football and baseball.
He realized his true passion was on the mound and committed himself to playing at William Jewell College, Liberty, MO, where he was a star pitcher and earned the nickname Big Righty.
He graduated from William Jewell with a Bachelor of Science degree and began working for the Liberty Park and Recreation Department.
It wasn’t long before Luke found himself back in Dubuque, pursuing his Masters Degree, as a Graduate Assistant for the University of Dubuque baseball program.
Shortly after moving home, Luke was diagnosed with Fibrolamellar, an ultra rare from of Liver Cancer.
He fought hard, remained positive and against the odds graduated with his Master of Business Administration from the University of Dubuque in 2017. Following graduation, he accepted the position of Assistant Baseball coach for the Spartans.
Luke was proud to be called coach. He was respected and loved by his players and the entire University of Dubuque community. He lead by example on and off the field, with his dedication, determination, attitude and intense work ethic. Luke truly loved being a coach, his players and the UD.
Luke’s love of sports extended beyond the baseball diamond. He was an avid Hawkeye football fan, rooted for the Chicago Bears, was a die hard Cubs fan, and even had a 4 year stint as a Cyclone. Many life long memories were made as Luke traveled the country with family and friends taking in as many sporting events as he could. He attended Hawkeye football games with his Dad as a young boy and was a season ticket holder ever since. Luke enjoyed Cubs games with friends at Wrigley, traveled to see them play in San Francisco and LA, and even caught a few games in St. Louis, while seeking cancer treatment. Luke recently returned from an amazing trip to Florida, where he golfed, fished, and enjoyed the beach.
Luke touched the lives of many. He was the most genuine guy, with an amazing smile that would light up the room. His positive outlook on life, even through the most difficult times, was an inspiration. He made everyone around him a better person.
Luke cherished his family. His Mom, Dad and two older sisters were his world. He leaned on his mom even more, once beginning his cancer fight and she stood strongly at his side throughout it all. He was adored by his 6 nieces and nephews. Known as Uncle L, he enjoyed watching their events and encouraged them with daily texts and calls. Luke’s extended family was a huge source of support, they were always there for him. Luke also had a very dear group of friends that he treasured like family.
Luke was a loving son and brother, the best uncle and a friend to many. He will be remembered for his positive outlook, genuine smile and his love of life. Luke will be truly missed
Those left to cherish Luke’s memory include his mother Kathy; two sisters Rachel (Jason) Padilla, and their children Hannah, Aubrey, Alannah, Blake and Lauren; Katie Kalb and her son Kael; Grandmother Millie Kalb, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
Luke was preceded in death by his father, Pete, grandpa AJ Kalb, and maternal grandparents Bob and Lollie Ferris.
In lieu of flowers, a Luke Kalb memorial fund has been established to create a baseball scholarship at the University of Dubuque in Luke’s name.
Mary Therese O’Connell

Mary Therese O’Connell (aka “Puddy,” “Mommo,” or “that weird woman who is so nice to me”) shuffled off her motor oil on February 10th, passing away suddenly and peacefully where she excelled – in bed.
Mary was born on June 29, 1939 in Chicago, IL, to Joseph and Mary Scheibel – two people you really wish you had met. Mary attended Clarke College in Dubuque, IA where she met her one true love, but eventually settled for John J. O’Connell, after she beat him in ping pong (this is not a euphemism). They were happily married on July 17, 1965. Mary then devoted much of her life to raising four wonderful children, and one numbskull. We’re not telling you which is which.
Mary spent her summers at the family’s cottage in Sister Lakes, MI where she sunbathed and enjoyed milkshakes at Driftwood. Never a shrinking violet, Mary was fiercely loyal, remarkably compassionate, and amazingly (and often times inappropriately) funny – unlike the writers of this obituary. Mary never met a stranger; every person she met, whether a server or a Senator, immediately became a close friend. She remembered your name, treated you with respect, all while learning how upset your aunt in Toledo was about the wedding invitations.
Mary found joy in the little things, her husband’s endowments not included (financial endowments. Sheesh!) – a text from a grandchild, a phone call from her favorite child (again, we’re not telling) and beautiful, life affirming memories shared with her husband of over 50 years. A proud cancer survivor, Mary cherished her life and family.
Those left to honor her memory include her loving husband, John O’Connell; five children: Kathleen (Patrick) Roseboom, John (Marcia) O’Connell III, Maureen (Michael) Sattan, Sheila (Keith) Berkley, and Megan (Matt) Cox; along with 16 grandchildren – Rachael, Ryan, Erin, Morgan, Ceridwen, Rhiannon, Michael, Stephen, Nicholas, Makenna, Alex, Sam, Calista, Will, Nora and Eliza. Mary would be impressed that you read this far. Mary is also survived by her brother, Joseph (Barbara) Scheibel of Tinley Park, IL and sister in law Kathy (Bob) Marsh of Manassas, VA. And you.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 15, 2018 at Resurrection Catholic Church. Friends (No enemies, please. You know who you are.) may call from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, February 14 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road.
In lieu of flowers, please send copious amounts of booze and chocolate. Or, for those of you that are more charitably inclined, please consider a donation to Opening Doors, a Dubuque non-profit that empowers the lives of homeless women and children at Maria House, Teresa Shelter and Francis Apartments.
Her children wish to express their condolences to everyone who didn’t have a mom as genuine, spectacularly funny and loving as Mary
Marion A. Beadle

Marion A. Beadle, age 96, of Dubuque, formerly of Galena and Waterloo, was called home peacefully at 12:05 a.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2018, at Luther Manor. To honor Marion’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, February 15, 2018, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating. To celebrate Marion’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Marion was born on June 2, 1921, in Bellevue, Iowa, daughter of John F. and Agnes W. (Muchow) Wohlers.
Marion was born and raised in the Bellevue area before moving to Galena for 37 years, followed by another 27 years in Waterloo, before finally completing her travels and relocating to her last destination of Dubuque. She was united in marriage to her forever sweetheart, Thomas Beadle, on November 15, 1943, at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque. The cute couple was blessed with 66 wonderful years together before he was sadly called home ahead of her on June 17, 2010. Marion was a faith filled woman who was a long-time member of St. Michael’s Church in Galena, St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, and most recently, St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque. Marion always cherished her role as a full-time wife and proudly paid meticulous care and attention to their home life. In her free time, Marion could be found sitting contently with a needle and thread in her hand working on her latest quilt or embroidery project. We are deeply saddened today that our beautiful Marion has been called home; but we know that the competitors around the card table finally have a chance at winning, we are relieved that she is now free of her earthly ailments, and we are surely thankful that her and Tom are now being joyfully reunited in their Heavenly home to begin their eternal loving commitment together.
Those left to cherish Marion’s memory include
her siblings,
Verna Budde, Bellevue, IA
and Eldon Wohlers, Bellevue, IA;
her nieces and nephews,
Donald (Bev Godsey) Wohlers, Dubuque, IA,
Wayne (Betty) Wohlers, Dubuque, IA,
Dale (Rita) Wohlers, Galena, IL,
Judy (Mike) Devine, DeWitt, IA,
Randy (Chris) Budde, Delmar, IA
and Jean (Bob) Winter, Clinton, IA;
and her dear friend,
Margy Becker, Dubuque, IA.
Marion was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas Beadle; her brothers, Wilfred Wohlers and Ralph (Lula) Wohlers; 2 nieces, Lynda Soenksen and Joan Webster; a nephew, Marty Budde; and a brother-in-law, Wayne Budde.
A Marion A. Beadle memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.
Marion’s family would like to thank Dr. Khan, Dr. Kristin Nelson, along with her nurse, Joan, and all of Marion’s friends and the staff at Mt. Pleasant Home, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of the wonderful, professional and compassionate care they have provided to Marion over the years.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com
Peggy J. Haas

Peggy J. Haas, 80, of Dubuque passed away Thursday, February 8, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am. Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Church of the Resurrection, with Rev. Joseph Hauer officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 12th, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, where a scripture service will be held at 6:30 pm.
Peggy was born December 11, 1937 in IL, daughter of Morris and Mabel Weber. She married Charles “Chuck” Haas September 1, 1956 in Fort Madison, Iowa. Peggy was employed at the Dubuque Community School District and at Loras College helping the priests. She also volunteered at the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Peggy was an active member of Resurrection parish and helped with funeral dinners.
She enjoyed gardening (especially roses) reading, playing cards, her trips to the casino, traveling especially trips to Door County and seeing her Grandchildren and their activities. She was a Cub Scout leader when her sons were involved in scouting.
She is survived by her husband, Charles “Chuck” Haas; six sons, Michael Haas, Mitchell (Pamela) Haas , Matthew (Kathy) Haas, Martin Haas, Marcus (Mary) Haas, and Marcel (Lauren) Haas; grandchildren, Madison, Alexa, Nicholas, Jamie, Hailey, and Karaline.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, John Weber and her in-laws, John and Francis Haas.
Memorials may be made to the Church of the Resurrection in Peggy’s memory.
Condolences may be left for the family at hskfh.com.
Bob Schuster

Bob Schuster, age 71, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly at 3:25 p.m., on Friday, February 9, 2018, at home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church, 1701 Rhomberg Ave, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. Family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main St. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
Bob was born on September 30, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Donald and Agnes (Heller) Schuster. He married Carol Vogel on September 7, 1968.
Bob enjoyed walks along the Lock and Dam, always picking up trash to preserve the environment for everyone to enjoy. He enjoyed watching the eagles and fishing, working in the yard, putzing in his workshop and spending time with his family. Bob was an avid reader, and lived a quiet and content life.
Surviving are his wife,
Carol Schuster, Dubuque, IA;
his children,
Julianne (Mike) Sixel,
Chris (Tracy) Schuster,
Stacie (Greg) Halverson,
Stephanie (Nick) Maglis
and Alexander (fiancée Nicole) Schuster;
his grandchildren,
Nick, Jon, Matt and Kate Halverson, Ben and Nathan Sixel, Abby Schuster, Sophia, Amelia and Chloe Maglis;
his sisters,
Lavonne “Bonnie” Bigelow
and Jane Lampe;
and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Wilbur “Bill” (Joyce) Vogel; and 2 brothers-in-law, Eldon “Butch” Bigelow and Tom Lampe.
A Robert W. Schuster memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com
Harold D. Davis

Harold D. Davis, 70, of Cascade, IA and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 9, 2017 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, IA.
Friends and relatives of Harold may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Sunday, February 11, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, IA, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.
Services for Harold will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 12, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, IA with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.
Harold was born September 2, 1947 in Postville, IA, son of Oscar and Louise (Erb) Davis. He was a graduate of MFL High School and the University of Wisconsin in Plattville, WI. On August 12, 2005 he was united in marriage to Linda (Markus) Takes in St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, IA.
He was a teacher and also was employed as a postal carrier, he retired from the Dubuque post office. He was also a finished carpenter. He served for 22 years in the Army and the National Guard.
He was a member of St. Matthias parish in Cascade and its Piano Choir. He was also a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528. He was an avid Cubs and Hawkeye fan. Harold was an umpire for 40 years, and referee official for 35 years. He was inducted into the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Takes Davis of Cascade, IA, one daughter, Barb Davis of Ankeny, IA; a son Jim (Mandy) Davis of Marietta, GA; two grandchildren, Charlotte and Oliver Davis; two step children, John (Ginger) Takes of Dubuque, IA, and Jeanine Takes (fiancé, Steve Bethel) of Gilbert, AZ; a brother, Duaine (Linda) Davis of Luana, IA, and a sister, Diane (Curt) Kraus of Postville, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Boleyn of Dubuque, IA, Dorrance (Ida) Markus of East Moline, IL, JoAnn Kremer of Farley, IA and Ron (Gloria) Markus of Dubuque, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister-in-law, Gerry Williams; and two brothers-in-law, LaVern Markus and Ben Markus.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com
Kathleen F. Birch

Kathleen Frances (Rettenmaier) Birch 92 of Dubuque, died Thursday, February 8, 2018 in Dubuque of complications from strokes. She was born to Francis and Henrietta Rettenmaier as their sixth child, in Dubuque, IA on May 2, 1925. She grew up and lived her entire life in Dubuque.
She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1943. During WWII, she worked as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone Company while attending high school and following graduation. She married Howard A. Birch on June 12, 1946, he passed away on April 9, 1993 and spent her life as a communicant of Sacred Heart, and later St. Anthony’s in Dubuque. She worked as a telephone operator and gift wrapper at Stampfer’s Department Store until they closed in 1981. Following that, she was a store manager of the GNC at the Kennedy Mall until she retired in 1990.
Mrs. Birch belonged to a social dinner and coffee group for many years. She and her husband traveled annually with a group of former members of the USS San Francisco, visiting many areas of the US and Europe and reuniting after their many tours of duty during WWII. Both groups contributed a great deal of joy and good memories to the lives of both Mrs. Birch and her husband.
She was preceded in death by her husband Howard in 1993, father Francis (age 89) in 1976 and mother Henrietta (age 96) in 1988, sisters Sylvia and Marion in 1925, Geraldine in 2013, brothers Edward in 1956, Charles in 2011, and grandson John of Davenport, IA in 2017.
She is survived by her four children; Geraldine Birch Hurst of Vancouver, WA, Diane M. and James R. Birch (Laurie) of Dubuque, and William X Birch (Lynn) of Bolingbrook, IL; granddaughters, Dr. Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk (Joseph) of Fultondale, AL. and Teri Birch (widow of John) of Davenport, IA; grandsons, Brian J. Hurst (Elisabeth) of Portland, OR, Chris J. Birch (Crystal) of Olive Branch, MS, Lee R. Birch (Jodi) of Parkersburg, IA, and Brandon I. Birch of Bolingbrook, IL. She has 2 great granddaughters and 3 great grandsons.
Visiting hours will be at Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque on Sunday, February 11, 2018 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on Monday, February 12, 2018 at 10:00 am. Conducted by Rev. Steven Rosonke. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.
The family extends a special thank you to the staff at University of Iowa hospitals, Iowa City.
A memorial fund has been established in Kathleen’s memory.
Online condolences may be left at www.hskfh.com
Jesse James Lutgen

Jesse James Lutgen, 32, of East Dubuque, IL formerly of Dubuque passed away on February 7, 2018 from complications of Diabetes.
Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 12th, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Burial will be at a later date in St. Lawrence Cemetery, Otter Creek. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of mass. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.
Jesse was born on July 1, 1985 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of David L. and Janelle (Huekels) Lutgen. He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 2003 and worked for HyVee in Dubuque and lastly for Nordstroms.
Jesse was an avid Iowa Hawkeye, Chicago Cubs, and Green Bay Packer fan, he also enjoyed Disc Golf and was a member of the Dubuque Disc Golf Club; but he especially loved his cousins and spending time with them.
He is survived by his mother Janelle Lutgen; his sister Theresa Lutgen; and his brother David Lee Lutgen, all of Bernard; along with many close cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father David Lutgen; his grandparents; his uncle Alan Lattner and his aunt Carol Lutgen.
In lieu of flowers a Jesse James Lutgen Memorial fund will be established.
Millie Hoerner

Millie Hoerner, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on February 7, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center.
The funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 12, at St. Joseph Church Key West with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, February 11, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Key West, IA, where a prayer service will be held at 1:00 p.m.
Millie was born on November 14, 1926, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Roy and Minnie (Kramer) Frederick. After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School, Millie worked as a secretary for Farley and Loetscher Manufacturing Company.
She married Robert “Bob” Hoerner on May 16, 1949, in Sioux Falls, SD, and soon after mothering and homemaking became her highest priority.
Once her children were grown, Millie was easeful, graceful, and useful in her role as teacher’s aide for learning disabled children in the Dubuque Community Schools, nurturing the students she worked with as if they were her own. Special friendships were formed during those years that remain today, and working with special needs children was one more way for Millie to share joy and love, changing lives with her positive influence.
Millie also enjoyed playing cards, caring for birds and flowers, dancing, traveling with her husband, and spending time with friends and family. Her grandchildren brightened her life and gave her great-grandchildren to add even more fun. She lived the last years of her life for the pleasure of being with her brood and flock.
She was a member of the St. Gerard’s Mother’s Club, the Rosary Society in Key West, was active in her support of Area Residential Care, and volunteered in countless anonymous public and private situations.
Surviving are six of Millie and Bob’s seven children: Julie Lester (special friend Leonel Vasquez), of Iowa City; Jerry (Marianne) Hoerner, of Key West, IA; Ted (Stacy) Hoerner, of Pittsburgh, PA; Dan (Linda) Hoerner, of Dubuque; Marianne Maili, of Chicago, IL; and Nancy (Al) Ronek, of Peosta, IA. Her heart also remains in her grandchildren: Jared and Audrey Lester; Adam (Stephanie) Hoerner, Callie (Bobby) Schauer, and Luke Hoerner; Jason, Jordan and Abbie Hoerner; Carlie and Greta Hoerner; Yancy and Axel (Irène) Choquet; and Quinn, Max, Lori and Sadie Ronek; and in her beloved great-grandchildren Faith, Eddie, and Isabelle Millie Schauer; and Dominic, Brody, Paisley, and Ethan Hoerner. Her surviving sisters and brothers in-law are Jean and Ruth Frederick; Phyllis Hoerner; Jim and Sally Hoerner; Darlene (Hoerner) and Donny Schmitt; and Ann Lambe. many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their children.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and Roy; her husband Bob; her first-born, son Tommy, on Feb. 23, 1961; two brothers Bud and Eldie Frederick; and several extended family and life-long friends.
The family wishes to thank the compassionate caregivers at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, along with countless friends and family who brightened and warmed Millie’s life and have offered support and kindness to her family.
In lieu of flowers, a Millie Hoerner Memorial Fund has been established which the family will distribute among organizations close to Millie’s heart.
Irene C. Theobald

Irene C. Theobald, age 96, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:40 p.m., on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Irene’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. To celebrate Irene’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, February 9, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Entombment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Irene was born on April 3, 1921, in Epworth, Iowa, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Urbain) Kennedy.
Irene was united in marriage to the love of her life, Sgt. John P. “Honest John” Theobald, on December 18, 1943, at St. John’s Church in Placid, Iowa. They were blessed with 70 wonderful years together, and 6 loving children, before he was called home ahead of her on May 29, 2014. Irene was completely devoted to her role of loving wife, mother and homemaker. Where family was concerned, Irene was always there to make sure everyone understood clearly that they were forever loved, cared for, appreciated and adored. Irene always maintained a perfect home-life for her family and her skills have systematically continued to trickle down through the generations whom follow her wonderful example. Irene completely embraced and lived by a very simple principle which was quite evident throughout her daily life; “Work is Love Made Visible!” Faith was also an integral part of Irene’s life and she was a long-time and prayerful member of Sacred Heart Church. Our hearts ache today with the very real sorrow of losing our sweet Irene upon the completion of her 96 year earthly journey. We are grateful for the time we had, for the love we shared, the memories she leaves behind, the work which made love visible, and the peace we surely possess in trusting that we’ll all see her and John again one day. Thank you for all you did for us Irene and may the Lord bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.
Those left to cherish Irene’s memory include
her children,
Richard John (Cathy) Theobald, Asbury, IA,
Ronald Edward (Kathy) Theobald, Dubuque, IA,
Randy Martin (Sue Young) Theobald, Farley, IA,
Roger Charles Theobald, Dubuque, IA,
Lynn Elizabeth (William) Meyer, Asbury, IA
and John Jacob “Jake” (David) Theobald, Dubuque, IA;
13 grandchildren;
Kris (Steve) Link, Timothy (Shamay) Theobald, Lynn (Josh) Bestold, Elizabeth (Nicholas) Champagne, Jennifer (Michael) Troxel, Irene Ryan, Janna (Miguel) Cruz, Shawntê (fiancé Marcus) White, Shannon (Rob) Fader, Tara (Justin) Dolezal, Matthew Meyer, Katelyn (Vadim Boyko) Meyer and Michael (Alicia) Meyer;
and 32 great-grandchildren.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Sgt. John P. Theobald; a grandson, Micah Theobald; and her 7 siblings, Clarence (Leona) Kennedy, Mary Kennedy, Quirin (Irene) Kennedy, Francis “Frank” (Anastasia) Kennedy, Martin (Helen) Kennedy, Elizabeth (Ralph) Kraus and Helen (John) Deckert.
An Irene C. Theobald memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.
Irene’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their kind, loving and compassionate care of Irene, and her family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com
Donald A. Riesberg

Donald A. Riesberg, 78, of Dyersville passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque after a brief illness.
Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Sunday, February 11, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Monday 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. Monday, February 12, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate and Deacon Roger Riesberg will assist and be the homilist.
Don was born May 19, 1939, in New Vienna the son of Clarence and Berneice (Boge) Riesberg. He grew up in New Vienna and graduated from St. Boniface High School with the Class of 1957. He married Donna Manternach on June 30, 1962 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Cascade. Together they had three daughters.
Don spent the majority of his career employed by John Deere, retiring in 1992. He enjoyed many activities including golf, playing cards, traveling and spending time with family.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Donna, 3 daughters: Marilyn (Bart) Werner of Delaware, Iowa, Wanda (Ken) Linderwell of Manchester and Annette (Dan) Eckert of Spirit Lake; 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; siblings: Judy (Roger) Westemeier, Justin “Sarge” (Mary Lynn) Riesberg, Roger (Kathy) Riesberg, and Clair (Doris) Riesberg all of Dyersville; and in-laws from the Manternach family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a great grandson, a sister-in-law, Jean Riesberg, and a nephew, Randy Westemeier.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.
Wayne A. Ring

Wayne Anthony Ring, 58, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at home. A private family celebration of life service will be held at a later date.
Wayne was born on November 5, 1959 in Dubuque the son of Robert A. and Virginia (Hubbard) Ring and his step father Herman Motsch. He worked at the former Dubuque Packing Co, Farmland, and FDL and was a member of the UFCW local 150A. He lastly worked for HyVee.
Wayne was a caring, giving, gentle soul. The simple things in life were a joy to him. Going for a walk, shooting a game or two of pool, going to the thrift stores to hunt for cut glass items for his collection, and listening to the radio, especially when the Cubs or Bulls were playing, or the trivia games where he could win free tickets were some of his favorites. He will be sadly missed.
He is survived by his sisters Linda (Don) Slattery and Barbara McDermott both of Dubuque and a brother Daniel Ring of Bernard, a sister-in-law Sandy Ring, his stepfather Herman Motsch, and step sister Donna Christensen along with nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father Robert Ring, his mother Virginia Motsch, a brother Randall Ring, a sister Susan Doerr, and a step sister Carol Upmann.
Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.