Obituaries Archive

Monica L. Morse

Monica Louise Morse was born 5th to Marjorie & Cleve Morse in Cedar Rapids Iowa on August 16, 1979. Monica came with a zest for life. Early years had lots of hospital time for Monica. Marjorie especially dedicated her life to trying to keep Monica safe. Monica on the other hand spent her life trying to do as much as possible and safe wasn’t her priority. Monica graduated from Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, May, 1999. She loved to travel and it didn’t matter if it was by car, plane, boat or her two feet she wanted to go. Monica loved the water and learned to swim at an early age. She tackled water slides, but she wanted to jump off diving boards. Monica had NO depth of field. So the board length, width, bounce of the board and her mom yelling she could NOT do it had always kept her from jumping. However, her nephew Andrew helped her overcome that challenge by standing on the side of the pool giving directions. He also had to yell at the other kids who wanted her to hurry up. She was ecstatic and after practicing with him as coach was able to do it without the coach. Monica had many pets: goats, rabbits, hamsters and dogs, however she was a cat person and Monique was her cat of choice for over 15 years. Monica loved projects and power tools. Screw guns were one of her favorite way to fix things. Monica enjoyed many things but helping in Kindergarten Sabbath School class, holding babies, saying scriptures with Rebekah and listening to Elvis.

Monica was pronounced dead on July 27th, 2018 at University of Iowa Hospitals. She went into St Luke’s hospital Wednesday morning the 25th and by the time she got to Iowa City she was not responding neurologically. She touched many people’s lives while she was alive and will continue to touch others with donated organs & tissue. Her death was caused by problems with the fluid in the brain. Monica had been born with Hydrocephalus in conjunction with Dandy-Walker syndrome. She had shunts that originally drained the fluid over time the shunts stopped working with what appeared no change in Monica. However, fluid was building up and it became too much.

At the Celebration of Life done July 30th words that people wrote to share with us were: Never saw her without a smile, always willing to help, caring, spitfire, kept her word, courageous, funny, passionate, friendly, always count on her to help me move things- she was so strong.

Monica is survived by Julie Morse Cedar Rapids, Iowa Rebekah (Clayton) Morse Cleburne Texas, Dave (Jen) Morse Marion Iowa, Donald Morse Midland Texas. Nephews Andrew & DeMarcus Stokes, Brandon & Dylan Morse. Many aunts, uncles, cousins and many very special friends.

Her parents Marjorie and Cleve proceeded in her death.

Family would like to thank the staff from Systems Unlimited for all their hard work with Monica over the last several years as Monica wanted to spread her wings and stop living at home.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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

Dianne M. Smith

Dianne M. Smith, 72, of Bloomfield, Iowa formerly of Hiawatha, Iowa, died Tuesday, August 2, 2018 at 7:40 a.m. at the Davis Center in Bloomfield, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Dianne may call after 9:00 a.m., Monday, August 6, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 10:30 a.m., with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa. The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Dianne was born April 14, 1946 in Lancaster, WI, daughter of Frank and Margaret Heilman. On June 2, 1973 she was united in marriage to Leo Smith at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 29, 2005. She was employed as a CNA for many years.

She is survived by a daughter, Connie Studnicka of Prairie Du Chein, WI; six sisters-in-law, Annette (Donald) Even of Worthington, IA, Ann (Steve) Lansing of Rochester, MN, Carleen (Bruce) Rehmke of Peosta, IA, Anita (Tom) Gleason and Margaret Smith both of Cascade, IA; and a brother-in-law, Donald Takes of Cascade, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Mary Steinhof; three sisters-in-law, Ruby Smith, Mary Ann Weber and Aileen “Teene” Takes; two brothers-in-law, Thomas and Jim Smith; one niece, Julie Even.

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

Kenneth D. Vorwald

Kenneth D. Vorwald, 87, of New Vienna, passed away Friday, August 3, 2018, at his home.

Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 5, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Monday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 6, 2018, St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Ralph Davis will officiate.

Ken was born January 25, 1931 in New Vienna, the son of George and Clara (Klostermann) Heying Vorwald. He married Bernice Hermsen on January 9, 1965 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna.

Ken loved all sports, his favorite teams were the White Sox, Celtics and the Detroit Lions. He liked New Vienna softball, and in his later years he enjoyed golfing and making new friends.

Ken was a high school basketball coach for St. Boniface High School and was very successful at it. He was instrumental in starting the Heritage House, the history of the area was very important to him. He was a life-long farmer and he was proud of his heritage farm. He loved his wife and son very much and his special dog Molly.

Survivors include his wife, Bernice, son, Kevin Vorwald of New Vienna, siblings: Alice (Jim) Oberbroeckling of Coggon, in-laws: Richard (Eileen) Hermsen of Edgewood, Roger (Grace) Hermsen of Manchester, Gladys (Harry) Burkle of Dyersville, Diane Hermsen and Art Hermsen both of New Vienna and Elizabeth Deutmeyer of Petersburg.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Gregor and Anna (Klostermann) Hermsen, half-sister, Bernice Reagan, three half-brothers; Arthur, Louis and Walter Heying, in-laws: Tom Deutmeyer, Harold Hermsen, Helen (Eldon) Gaul and Joyce Hermsen.

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

Minnetta Fortner

Minnetta “Nettie” Fortner, 96, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her family.

Friends may greet the family from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 5, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 6, at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ, 1795 Jackson St., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Pamela Starr will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Nettie was born May 2, 1922 in Dubuque, the daughter of George “Pat” and Minnie (Jonas) Avenarius. She attended Dubuque Public Schools, and married Charles “Bob” Fortner on August 9, 1947 at General Grant’s home in Galena, IL. He preceded her in death in 1996.

Nettie was very active with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, serving as Past President of REAC. She was a lifetime member of Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ. She volunteered as a Foster Grandparent at Fulton School and Young-Uns Daycare.

Nettie enjoyed shopping, playing cards, going out to eat, talking on the phone with her sisters, and taking walks with her daughter. She loved to visit her granddaughter in Phoenix, AZ, and enjoyed playing with all her great grandchildren.

Nettie is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Bob) Friedman; her grandchildren, Rob C. (Sarah) Friedman and Lisa (Jason) Steines; her great grandchildren, Wil and Wesley Friedman, and Lily and Hunter Steines; her sister, Nina Jurisic; special nieces Janeane Lee, June Crimmins, and Diane Lyons; and special nephew Gene Jurisic.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Harold “Cyril”, Milton, Gerald, Norman, and Eldon Avenarius; and her sisters Mona “Sis” Fens and Delaine Vogt.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Finley Pain Clinic for their care of Nettie.

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

Robert P. Takes

Robert P. Takes, 84, of Cascade, Iowa passed away, Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at his home in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Bob may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, August 3, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m., and a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 9:00 a.m., Saturday, August 4, 2018 at the funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 4, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

He was born January 8, 1934 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Paul and Sybil K. (Davis) Takes. He received his education in the former St. Martin’s school in Cascade. On May 26, 1955 he was united in marriage to Rita Sadler at Sacred Heart Catholic church in Fillmore, Iowa.

He was employed at Cascade Lumber and Mfg. in Cascade for 53 years. During his retirement Bob drove for the Monastery delivering caskets. Bob was a very social, caring, genuine, hard working and selfless person.
He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930, the 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573. Bob was the President of the following: Tri-State Historical Society, JC’s, Library Board, Aquin School Board, St. Martin’s School Board and the Aquin Booster Club. Bob was a dedicated life-long Chicago Bears fan.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Takes of Cascade, IA; four children, Cliff (Kathy) Takes of Anamosa, IA, Diane (Don) Stephenson of Cedar Rapids, IA, Steve Takes of Mount Vernon, IA, A.J. (& girlfriend, Lori) Takes of Cascade, IA; 4 grandchildren, Chelsea, Brittany, Robbie and Shae; 2 great grandchildren, Braylen and Emma.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Jason Stephenson in 2005; one daughter-in-law, Chris Takes in 2009.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that memorials be made to the Cascade Historical Society in memory of Robert P. Takes.

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

Jayne Marie Walker (Link)

“If there ever comes a day where we can’t be together, keep me in your heart. I’ll stay there forever.”

Jayne Marie Walker (Link), 93, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 17, 2017, surrounded by family.

A memorial mass to celebrate Jayne’s life will be held Saturday, August 11, 2018 at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Center Grove Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. at the church until time of mass. Wherever Jayne “GG” went, she always had on something purple and her favorite purple glasses, so to honor that, the family requests that those who attend the memorial also wear something purple. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

A native of Dubuque, Jayne was born on September 16,1924, to John B Link and Elva J Roberts. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1942 and married her husband, the late Robert (Bob) Edward Walker, on July 13, 1946, thereafter becoming a proud firefighter wife and mother of three.

Jayne had an unwaveringly strong faith and for many years walked to daily morning mass through sun, snow or rain. Close to her favorite chair you would always find her daily prayer book, the morning newspaper, and a crossword puzzle book or two. During evenings you would often find her visiting with family and friends – cooking delicious homemade meals, laughing and telling stories, and enjoying a nice chilled glass of Rhine wine. Family came first, and Jayne raised her children to be humble, hardworking, appreciative individuals, traits passed down to future generations, though she did love to spoil her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Whether friend or family, Jayne welcomed all into her home and made sure you were comfortable, well-fed and never thirsty.

She is survived by children Robert (Maureen) Walker, John (Donna) Walker, and Sher Rice; grandchildren Amy (Brad) Kraft, Erin (Ben) Gardner, Sierra (Nathanael) Powell, Eric (Laurie) Miller, and Nathan (Laura) Miller; and great grandchildren Hannah and Sarah Kraft, Ella and Walker Gardner, Benjamin Powell, Ayden, Connor and Tierney Miller, and Alyvia, Aubrey and Nathan Miller, Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Jim Link; sister-in-law Marlyn Link; and son-in-law, John Rice.

Jayne was always well cared for, and her family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center, as well as Dr. Kirkendall and Nurse Kate for their dedication and compassion towards Jayne through recent years and her final days.

Affectionately nicknamed “GG” by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Jayne will be dearly missed, but continually celebrated for her unshaking, genuine love and concern for all of those close to her heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Judy A. Brown

Judy A. Brown, 76, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2018, at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating Judy’s life will be held at 2 P.M., Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at South Mineral Cemetery, rural Onslow, Iowa. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Judy Amanda Eye was born on January 28, 1942 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Clifford Edward and Faye Arlene (Moore) Eye. She grew up in Maquoketa and married James Lee Brown on November 12, 1960 in Dubuque, Iowa.

Judy had worked at Collis Company in Clinton, Iowa as a machine operator for 22 years until retirement. She enjoyed puzzles, camping, reading, taking walks, crocheting, going on trips, and relaxing on her swing. She was very devoted to her family.

Those left to honor Judy’s memory include her husband, James “Jim” Brown of Delmar, IA; sons, Dwayne Brown of Maquoketa, IA, and Michael Brown of Maquoketa, IA; a sister, Peggy Miller of Maquoketa, IA; 5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; and a son-in-law, Brian Keeney of Maquoketa, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Larry and William “Bill” Eye, a daughter Pamela Lynn Keeney, and a granddaughter Alexandra Michelle Brown.

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

Jane Ellen (Turner) Kouba

Jane Ellen (Turner) Kouba, 72, of Dubuque died Saturday, July 28, 2018 at home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be held Thursday August 2,2018 at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ from 9:00 to 11:15 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m.

Jane was born September 13, 1945 in Aurora, Ill., daughter of Harry and Sylvia (Klaub) Turner. On January 15, 1998 she married Steven Bruse in Dubuque.

Jane was passionate about music and she sang, played the piano and viola. She loved her family, reading, gardening, and storytelling. She loved having fun and making people laugh. She received her BA in contemporary literature from the University of Dubuque. For the past 20 plus years she was the pianist for Summit Congregational UCC.

She is survived by her husband, Steven Bruse; three children, Peter Schilling, Charles (Kimberly) Schilling and Mark Yamashita, her sister Mary (George) Cayro, three step children, Cherie (Don) Regan, Kelly (Rob) Liddle, and Shanon (Christy) Bruse; 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Dr. J. Robert Turner and Charles Turner.

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

A Jane Kouba memorial fund has been established.
Thanks to all her amazing support systems: family, church, medical, and friends.

Robert Phillips Stokesberry

Robert Phillips “Bob” Stokesberry, 82, of Otter Creek, Iowa passed away Monday July 30, 2018.
Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 4, 2018 at Saint Lawrence Catholic Church, Otter Creek with Fr. Austin Wilker officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors accorded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the church. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.

Bob was born on October 29, 1935 in Dubuque the son of Chris and Mary (Phillips) Stokesberry. He graduated from Loras Academy in 1953 and entered the US Army in December of 1954. He served in the 82nd Air born until Sept. 1956. On November 26, 1960 he married JoAnn Even at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque. He farmed up until 1969 when he became a meat inspector for the US Department of Agriculture until his retirement in January of 1995. He was a member of the American Legion Post #528 in Cascade and served as Sargent of Arms.

He enjoyed boating on the Mississippi, riding his Gold Wing, and helping care for the church cemetery. Some of his greatest pleasures were attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.

He is survived by his wife JoAnn a daughter Susan Siegwarth, a son in law Doug Biehl, grandchildren Johnny and Lexie Biehl, and Jed and Marcus Siegwarth.

He was preceded in death by a son Chris on July 7, 1987, a daughter Cheryl on January 18, 2014, his parents Chris and Mary, and a sister Mary Clare Stokesberry.

In lieu of flowers memorial may be given to the Saint Lawrence Cemetery Fund.

Alfred J. Kerkenbush

Alfred J. Kerkenbush, age 93, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:50 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Al’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, August 3, 2018, at St. Columbkille’s Church, 1230 Rush Street, with Rev. Thomas J. McDermott officiating. To celebrate Al’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 2, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish wake service held at 4:30 p.m. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens, where full military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Al was born on May 15, 1925, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, son of William L. and Adeline (Meoska) Kerkenbush.

Alfred Kerkenbush died peacefully with his brother, Roger, by his side . He was a fiercely loyal man deeply dedicated to his family and Catholic faith. Coming from modest beginnings, the eldest boy in a family of 7 hailing from Tennyson, Wisconsin. He answered his call to service in World War II as a member of the U.S Navy. He then met and married Erma Margan, his devoted and loving wife of 63 years before her passing in 2010. Al and Erma had 7 children together (Shirley, Tommy, Patty, Denise, Donna, Julie and Sarah). While Tommy passed in his infancy, the six girls grew to be beautiful adults, each with families of their own totaling 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Al’s daughters and other family members were in Dubuque when he passed. He worked at the Dubuque Packing House, retiring after over 40 years of service. He enjoyed time on and near the Mississippi whether it was helping to build and maintain The Margan Family Cottage, driving his speedboat, teaching all his girls to water ski or fishing on her shores. He lived in Dubuque for 70 years, spending most of those, raising his family on Levi Street where he enjoyed time outside feeding and watching the birds, in his workshop and doing projects around the house. He was an avid CUBS fan! He was often heard, especially in his later years, expressing deep gratitude for all the gifts God bestowed upon him. He is so deeply loved by so many. He was truly the rock upon which his family was built. He will be dearly missed. His family will forever be grateful for his love as that was one thing that never wavered as life presented its many challenges. Rest In Peace Dad, Brother, Grandpa, Great Grandpa and Uncle. We love and thank you.

Those left to cherish Al’s memory include

his 6 daughters,
Shirley (John) Copeland, Sumter, SC,
Patricia “Patti Jo” Hodge, Akron, OH,
Denise (David) Parochetti, LeClaire, IA,
Donna (Michael) O’Brien, McHenry, IL,
Julie Stumpf, Iowa City, IA
and Sara (Eric) Fisher, Ridgecrest, CA;

11 grandchildren,
Laura Bellcase, Craig (Kristin) Parisot, Rachel Stumpf, Calla (Matt) Parochetti-Poulter, Kyle Parochetti, Alyssa (Brian) Jones, Megan Hodge, Aaron and Alex O’Brien, and Ivan and Shane Fisher;

6 great-grandchildren,
Leah, Jake, Jackson, Conner, Avery and Cora;

and his siblings,
Roger (Frankie) Kerkenbush, Monroe, MI
and Marie Capesius, Key West, IA.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Erma Kerkenbush; a son, Thomas “Tommy” Kerkenbush; a granddaughter, Samantha Stumpf; 3 sisters, Virginia “Ginny” (Jim) Droessler, Eileen (Harlan) Droeszler and Betty (Calvin) Lindecker; a brother, Gerald “Gerry” Kerkenbush; and a brother-in-law, Paul Capesius.

Al’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital, and Eagle Point Place, for all of their wonderful care and support during these difficult days.

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

Sharon E. Lason

Sharon E. Lason, 77, Dubuque, IA, formerly Twin Cities, MN passed away on Saturday, July 28, 2018, at 11:51p.m. in Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 3rd, 2018 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 2nd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m. family and friends may also gather after 9:30 a.m. Friday at the church until time of mass.

Sharon was born on June 13, 1941 in Port Crane, NY to William and Edna (Kinney) Moslin. She earned her LPN at the age of 40 and went on to get her associates degree in Nursing to become an RN.

She married Edward Lason in 1959, they later divorced in 1974.

Sharon worked several places as an RN with many diverse roles. One of the most memorable was as a correctional/jail nurse.

She became a Master Gardner at the age of 75 in Dubuque County. Sharon was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and was a member of St. Anthony Church in Dubuque.

Sharon was an avid gardener, especially herbs and flowers. Sharon loved animals, especially her beloved Duke and all of the hummingbirds that would visit her gardens. She was a volunteer at the humane society in Dubuque. Sharon’s other passion was shopping and browsing for great deals. She would often shop with her partner in crime, and beloved friend Faye Herrig. Sharon travelled back to New York and enjoyed visiting her family there. She enjoyed visiting with her sister Mavis and eating a great meal on the river together.

She is survived by her children, Michelle Lason, of Carver, MN, Jon (Claire) Lason, of Detroit Lakes, MN, Phil Lason, of Maplewood, MN, Tim (Ana) LaSonne, of St. Paul, MN, Kristen (Darren) Heimbuch, of Dubuque, IA. Grandchildren: Jacob (Crystal) LaPlante, Nadine (Ryan) Hayes, Amanda King, Vanessa (Dan) Schultz, Brianna (David) Lason, Eyan (Lauren) Lason, Casey Lason, Alicia (Kiel) Lason, Katie LaSonne, Natalie LaSonne, Kimberly LaSonne, Logan LaSonne, Katherine Heimbuch, and Mary Heimbuch. Great Grandchildren: Pierce LaPlante, Jonas Wik, Angelo King, Alyssa Weierke, Annastasia King, Simon Schultz, Jack Bistodeau, and Khole Bistodeau. One sister Mavis Olenski of Melbourne, FL.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters; Alice Vargo and Betty Jenks; brothers; Andy Maslin, William (Billy) Maslin, and David Maslin.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Ron Schope, Dr. Greg White, Ennoble Staff, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Edna, as well as the many care givers from the healthcare institutions around Dubuque.

Ruth A. Goffinet

Ruth A. Goffinet, 77, of Benton, Wisconsin, died Tuesday, July 31, 2018, at Epione Pavilion in Cuba City. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 3, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Church in Benton with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 3-7 p.m. Thursday at St. Patrick’s Church where the parish wake service will be at 2:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Friday at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Benton is in charge of arrangements.

Ruth was born on October 15, 1940, in Benton, Wisconsin, the daughter of Joseph and Veronica (Hoppenjan) Baxter. She graduated from Benton High School in 1958. Ruth married Donald Goffinet on April 29, 1961, at St. Patrick’s Church in Benton. He proceeded her in death on May 6, 2003. She worked at Dunn & Bradstreet in Dubuque from 1958 to 1962 and then at Benton State Bank until 2004 when she retired.

Ruth was a member of the Council of Catholic Women at St. Patrick’s Church. She loved spending time with her grandchildren who were her greatest joy.

Survivors include her daughter, Jo “Jodi” Goffinet, of Madison; her sons, Gerald (Greta) Goffinet, of Green Bay, and James Goffinet, of Benton; a brother, Joseph “Mick” (Mary Jane) Baxter, of Benton; and five grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Emilee and Madison Goffinet, of Green Bay, and Kelsie and Bradley Goffinet, of Benton.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, and a sister, Kathleen Parker.

A Ruth A. Goffinet Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net

Dorothy M. Heim

Dorothy M. Heim, 84, of 10140 Key West Drive, Dubuque, died July 27, 2018 in her home.

Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 3rd at St. Joseph Catholic Church Key West. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial will be in Pilot Knob Cemetery, rural Galena, Illinois. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

She was born on October 10, 1933, in Mechanicsville, Iowa, daughter of Edward and Pauline (Spencer) Sheber. She married Clifford J. Heim on August 4, 1956 in Immaculate Conception church in Cedar Rapids, and they lived in Dubuque from then on.

Dorothy graduated from Lisbon High School, Lisbon, Iowa in 1951. She worked at Insurance Companies and Turner Manufacturing in Cedar Rapids. After marriage she was a “stay at home” mom for 19 years, then worked in Admitting at Xavier Hospital for seven years and Nursing Service at Mercy Medical Center for 12 years.

Dorothy loved working on her genealogy, reading, arts and crafts, crocheting, quilting and traveling on vacations with her daughter, Jane, and her sister, Mary, and niece Debbie Hagerty, many of them doing genealogy. A high point was standing before the very altar her great great great grandparents were married in 1796 in the Parish Church of Llanelian in the County of Anglessey in Wales.

Surviving are her husband Cliff; three daughters, Mary Catherine (Rob) Blok, of Sumter, South Carolina, Jane Heim, of Boise, Idaho, Sara (Jeff) Levin, of Armada, Michigan; two sons David Heim, of Carpenterville, Illinois, and Paul Heim, of Boise, Idaho. 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; a sister, Mary (Fred) Thielen, of Bellevue, and a brother, Robert (Karen) Sheber, of Guttenberg; a sister-in-law, Charlotte (Charles) Ronek, of New Vienna, IA, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Mark Heim, two brothers, Edward S. Sheber and William Sheber, and a sister, JoAnn Robinson.

Mom fought a courageous battle with cancer and died as gracefully as she lived. She was surrounded by family members as she left this life. She will be truly missed by all of us who love her so dearly.

Our family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to both Mercy Homecare and especially Hospice of Dubuque who have guided us through this difficult journey.

Memorial donations may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Dorothy Heim’s name.

You may leave online condolences at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

William F. Skemp

William F. (Bill) Skemp, 79, of Dubuque, IA, died Saturday July 28, 2018 at home from natural causes. Services will be at 10:30 am, Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Resurrection Church, with Father Gibbs officiating. Private Family Burial Services will be at a later date. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Resurrection Church, 4300 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, where there will be a scripture wake service at 6:30 p.m. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements.

Bill was born June 21, 1939 in Dubuque, son of Frederick and Marie (Reinker) Skemp. He married Patricia Leonard on August 14, 1965 at St. Joseph’s Church, Elkader, IA. Bill graduated from Holy Trinity Grade School (1953), Loras Academy (1957) and Loras College (1961). He attained his CPA certificate in 1963 while working as an accountant with Price Waterhouse in Chicago. He returned to Dubuque in 1964 to be an accountant with Telegraph Herald/Woodward Communications.

In April of 1955 Bill became a newspaper carrier for Telegraph Herald. With the exception of his time with Price Waterhouse, he was associated with Telegraph Herald/Woodward Communications until May of 2012. During that 59 year span he was a carrier, circulation clerk, sports reporter, accountant, Treasurer, President/COO, Secretary, Vice Chair, Chair/CEO, and Board member.

Bill believed in giving back to the community. He served on the boards of a number of non-profit and charitable organizations during his career. He was active on the United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States for many years, serving on a number of committees as well as being chair of the Board of Trustees. He also served on the following boards: Dubuque Museum of Art (Treasurer); Dubuque Symphony Orchestra (President); Greater Dubuque Development Corporation (Chair); Loras College National Alumni Board; Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden; Junior Achievement of the Tri-States; Salvation Army Advisory Board; Little Cloud Girl Scouts Council (Treasurer).

Bill was most grateful for the education he received at Loras College. In addition to his service on the Loras National Alumni Board, Bill worked on the “Dubuque Appeal” and served as chair or co-chair of that fund raising effort on two occasions. He enjoyed meeting with the Loras presidents on a regular basis to discuss Loras and its future. Bill was also active with other classmates in organizing the reunions for his Loras Academy class of 1957 every five years. Bill’s role was to keep track of addresses and to send out mailing and emails.

Surviving are his wife Patricia; two sons, Dan (Shelley) Skemp of North Liberty, IA and Steve (Kathy) Skemp of Asbury, IA; a daughter, Kathleen (Curt) Zimmermann of Meridianville, AL; a sister-in-law, Jo Ellen Leonard of Wilmington, NC; seven grandchildren, Kelsey, Haley and Abbie Skemp; Roark and Natalie Skemp; and Claire and Leo Zimmerman. He is also survived by a brother Fred (Dianne) Skemp of Dubuque; four sisters, Mary Ann (Norm) Hoerstmann of rural Hazel Green, WI, Janet (Jim) Neyens of Cedar Park, TX, Jean (Paul) Wienecke of Milton, PA and Dianne (Tom) Bradley of Montgomery, AL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers in infancy, James and John, and a brother Tom.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Loras College, The Dubuque Symphony Orchestra or other charities Bill was involved with.

Arthur W. Imbus

Arthur W. “Art” Imbus, 78, of Menominee, IL, passed away on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, surrounded by his wife and family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, with Fr. Dean Smith officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque, with military honors accorded by members of East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Visitation will also be from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Thursday at the Church. Members of American Legion Post # 787 will meet at the funeral home at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Art was born on March 3, 1940 near Menominee, the son of Henry and Mary (Vogt) Imbus. He was united in marriage to Diane Weed on September 20, 1975 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dubuque. Art served in the Army in the Panama Canal Zone.

He was employed at St. Regis Paper Co., Georgia Pacific, and later Colorbox from where he retired after 35 years of service. Art enjoyed playing a good game of Euchre and playing Euchre on the computer, trips to the Dog Track, listening to Elvis and was currently Chaplain of East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787. He served for many years on the Funeral Honors Detail. A member of Nativity BVM Parish and a former member of United Steel Workers Local # 1861.

Surviving is his wife Diane; his siblings, Mary Agnes Melssen of Potosi, WI, Herb Imbus of Menominee, Bob (Marian) Imbus of Luana, IA, Don (Rose) Imbus of Menominee, Doris (Bob) Watkins of Springfield, MO, Jim (fiancée, Nancy Miller) Imbus of Menominee, Joyce (Pat) Powers of Dubuque, IA, Dan (Linda) Imbus of Menominee, and Nancy Roepke of East Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary and a brother Gerald “Jerry” Imbus.

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