Obituaries Archive

Sr. Mary Enid Lodding

Sister Mary Enid Lodding, BVM (Enid), 91, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died on Friday, July 27, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9-10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018, in the Marian Hall Chapel. Sharing of Memories will be at 10:15 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Mary Enid was an elementary teacher in Muscatine, Davenport and Iowa City, Iowa, where she also served as a pastoral minister at the Catholic Student Center. She taught in elementary schools in Chicago, Rock Island, and East Moline, Ill.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Seattle, Wash.; and Portland, Ore. She was a pastorate associate in Arlington Heights, Ill., and the director of religious education in Addison, Ill.

She was born in Chicago on March 14, 1927, to Edward and Lillian Lenick Lodding. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1944, from St. Joseph Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on March 19, 1947, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1952.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Lillian Kissane and Loretta Cassidy. She is survived by nieces and nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 73 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmcong.org/support_donate.cfm.

Miller Funeral Home, East Dubuque, IL., is in charge of arrangements.

Edward V. Egan

Edward V. Egan, age 90, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 5:08 p.m. on Sunday, July 29, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Ed’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, August 2, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street, with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating. To celebrate Ed’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until the time of services at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, August 2, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post #6. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Ed was born on June 17, 1928, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Edward L. and Hope (Dolan) Egan.

Ed was a proud life-long Dubuquer, who honorably served his country with the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean War. He was a hard-working and committed employee who earnestly put his talents to use with the City of Dubuque as a Surveyor Chief for over 30 years, until his well earned retirement had finally arrived. Ed gratefully found the love of his life, Alice O’Brien, and made her his bride, on October 22, 1955, at St. Patrick’s Church. Their union was truly blessed with 62 wonderful years together, and 6 adored children. Ed and Alice were always very active and could often be seen out and about taking relaxing walks or hikes with their beloved 4 legged friends. He was also quite an outdoorsman; never passing up the opportunity to spend the day hunting for a trophy buck, casting a line in hopes of catching a keeper, or simply taking a ride on his bicycle in search of a little serenity. Ed was a very patriotic man who always enjoyed getting together with his friends, and fellow comrades, at the American Legion to swap stories and shuffle a few hands of cards. He was also a voracious reader who continually delighted in sharing the knowledge he had obtained with family and friends. His faith was an important aspect of Ed’s life also and he was a faithful and active member of St. Anthony’s Church for many years. Above all though, Ed’s family meant the world to him and spending time with Alice, the children, and the grandchildren, brought him more joy to his heart than all of his other activities combined. We are deeply saddened today at the loss of such a great man, and the patriarch of our family, but find some comfort in the fact that he is now at peace, free of the physical ailments which have plagued him these past few months while unfortunately keeping him from doing many of the things he enjoyed so much. We love you Ed, we will miss you, and now definitely look forward to the day we will be reunited again in our Heavenly home.

Those left to cherish Ed’s memory include

his loving wife,
Alice Egan, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Anne Powell, Dubuque, IA,
Joe (Karin) Egan, Park Ridge, IL,
Karen Egan, Dubuque, IA
and Brian Egan, Dubuque, IA;

4 grandchildren,
Shanna Powell, Matthew Egan, Bradford Egan and Gregory Egan;

5 great-grandchildren,
Madeleine, Oliver, Sage, Niya and Willow Powell;

2 great great-grandchildren,
Alyza and Lilyanna Powell;

and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; twin girls in infancy; a sister, Anna Mae Egan; and 2 brothers, Pat and Glenn Egan.

Ed’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their wonderful care and support.

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

Michael A. McDermott

Michael A. McDermott, 86, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his daughter Julie Urbain’s home in Farley, on July 29, 2018.

Friends and relatives of Mike may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. Thursday, August 2, 2018 at the funeral home.=

Mass of Christian burial for Mike will be held Thursday, August 2, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Phil Kruse presiding and his brother, Rev. Joseph McDermott SVD, concelebrating and full military honors will be afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650. Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born September 14, 1931 in Bankston, Iowa, son of Ambrose and Ruth (White) McDermott. He received his education from Bankston and graduated from Divine Word High School in Epworth, IA. Mike served in the United States Marine Corp with the First Amphibious Battalion – First Marine Division during the Korean War.

On September 13, 1955 he was united in marriage to Lois J. McQuillen at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, IA. She preceded him in death on January 10, 2001. Mike worked for the Dubuque Packing Company for 19 years, and drove School Bus for Western Dubuque Schools. Mike and Lois opened the Bobcat Drive-In, in Epworth in 1973.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, IA, Epworth American Legion John White Post #650 and the Epworth Fire Department.

He is survived by two sons, Joseph (Patricia) McDermott of Morrison CO, Gerald (Jolene) McDermott of Castle Rock CO; and two daughters, Julie (Mark) Urbain of Farley IA and Jodi (Mark) Naig of Waterloo WI; 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; one sister, Bea (Richard) Soens of Dubuque; three brothers, Rev Joseph McDermott and Patrick (Patricia) McDermott both of Epworth, and Linus (Shirley) McDermott of Cascade; six sister-in-laws, Dorothy McDermott of Menominee IL, Maureen McDermott of Manchester MO, Joann Delany of Cascade, Carol Houtaker of Benton WI, Judy McQuillen of Dyersville, Sharon (Joe) McAuillife of Epworth; four brother-in-laws, David Raab, Jim (Shelia) McQuillen, Tom (Joyce) McQuillen of Omaha NB and Joe (Corrine) McQuillen of Epworth.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lois, daughter Joni McDermott, his parents Ambrose and Ruth McDermott and his father and mother in-laws Joe and Hazel McQuillen. Also preceding Mike in death were four brothers, Jerry, Thomas, Tony, and Chuck McDermott; three sisters, Mary Joan Ernst, Helen Ann Kramer and Frances Raab; six brother-in-laws, Jim Ernst, Don Kramer, Richard and Patrick McQuillen, Frank Delany, John Houtaker; and three sister-in-laws, Erica McDermott, Dorothy and Joyce McQuillen.

The McDermott family wants to say a special thank-you to the McDermott and McQuillen families (especially Rev. Joseph McDermott), friends, and Hospice of Dubuque (especially Edna “Nancy”).

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

Gerald A. Anstoetter

Gerald A. “Jerry” Anstoetter, 89, of Farley, Iowa passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, July 27th, 2018.
Friends and relatives may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 30, 2018 at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m., the Farley Volunteer Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:00 p.m., the Legion Auxiliary will meet in a body at 6:45 p.m., the Farley American Legion Post #656 services will be held at 7:00 p.m. and the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001 rosary will be held at 7:30 p.m.

A mass of Christian burial will be held Tuesday, July 31st at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley with his grandson, Rev. Don Anstoetter presiding and Rev. Phil Kruse concelebrating. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery with full military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.

Jerry was born on December 3, 1928, in Farley, Iowa, son to Ben and Lydia (Kramer) Anstoetter. Jerry attended East Scott School #6 in rural Farley through eighth grade. He attended St. Joseph’s High School and later completed his GED while in the service. Jerry was united in marriage to Mary Eileen “Monie” Blazek on June 22, 1957 at Sacred Heart Church in Reilly Ridge, Iowa.

Following his time at St. Joseph’s, he hauled cream, baled hay, and worked for farmers in the Farley area. He served in the Korean War from 1950-1954 as a heavy equipment operator building runways for the Air Force. When he returned home from Korea, he worked construction for Conlon and later worked for Merle Tobin Construction. In 1966, Jerry bought into Tobin Construction and in 1970 he began Anstoetter Construction. In 1992, he sold the business to his son, but continued to stay active in the construction scene up until the day he died.

Jerry was very involved in the community of Farley throughout his life. He served as one of the original Farley Park Board members, a member of St. Joseph’s Parish, the Farley Fire Department, St. Joseph’s Parish Council, a member of the Farley City Council, and a member of the American Legion Post #656 and Knights of Columbus Council #2001. While being active with the Legion, he was instrumental in implementing the Avenue of the Flags at St. Joseph’s Parish Cemetery. Jerry enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Monie, three children: Tom (Margaret) of St. Louis, Mo., Dick (Bev) of Farley, and Julie (Luke) Merfeld of Peosta, IA; twelve grandchildren: Emily (Tim Schmalz) Anstoetter, Mary (Mark) Decker, Fr. Don Anstoetter, Doug Anstoetter, Nick (Emily) Knepper, Katie (Adam) Moltzan, Robbie (Lauren) Anstoetter, Tony (Maria Brown) Anstoetter, Erica (Damien) Fries, Kelsey, Brynn, and Gabrielle Merfeld; eleven great-grandchildren; siblings: John (Joan) Anstoetter of Dubuque, IA, Mildred Koehler of Decatur, IL; sisters-in-law: Janann (Ken) Krapfl of Monticello, IA, Shirley (Clete) Maiers of Dubuque, and Sherry Blazek of New Hampton, IA and brother-in-law Jack (Diane) Blazek of Lawler, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Lydia and in-laws Tony and Mildred Blazek, brothers Charles, Bernard, and Donald, sisters, Marian (John) Bell, Esther (Fran) Joyce, Sister Marirose Anstoetter RSM, Alice (Gene) Wieser; sisters-in-law, Caroline Anstoetter, Vi Anstoetter, Doris Anstoetter, brothers-in-law, Mike Blazek, and three children in infancy; Linda, Michael, and William.

A Gerald A. Anstoetter memorial fund has been established

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

John J. Hazer

John Joseph Hazer, 44, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 26, 2018, at his home in Maquoketa from Congestive Heart Failure under the care of Hospice of Jackson County.

Friends and Family may gather in remembrance of John on Friday, August 3, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Graveside services and Burial will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, August 4, 2018, at St. Lawrence Cemetery, Otter Creek, Iowa. Cremation has taken place.

John Joseph Hazer was born on June 26, 1974 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Harlan and Doris (Flenker) Hazer. He was a 1993 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.

Growing up on a farm at Otter Creek he loved farm life. Doing chores, milking cows, driving a tractor or hauling grain. He also drove semi for several area trucking companies.

Those left to honor his memory include his three sons, Jacob, Jarod and Jordan, all of TN; his mother, Doris Hazer of Maquoketa, IA; brothers, Brian (Jen) Hazer of Bernard, IA, and Dave (Kim) Hazer of Maquoketa, IA; nieces and nephew, Morgan and Faith Hazer of Bernard, IA, Colton Hazer of DeWitt, IA, and Kailie Hazer of Davenport, IA; his uncle and aunts, Al and Lois Hazer of AR, Darlene Cook of Maquoketa, IA, and Mary Kay Flenker of Maquoketa, IA; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death his maternal grandparents Woody and Florence Flenker, paternal grandparents Clarence and Elda Hazer, infant aunt Joan Hazer, uncles Roger Flenker, Richard “Dick” Flenker and Allan Cook, and his father Harlan Hazer on May 2, 2018.

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

Melvin J. Loes

Melvin J. “Moon” Loes, 95, of Dubuque passed away Wednesday July 25, 2018 at home with his family by his side. Funeral services will be at 12:00 noon Monday July 30, 2018 at The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with Fr. Douglas Loecke officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with full military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6. Friends and family may call from 9:00 am until the time of services Monday at the funeral home.

Moon was born on July 13, 1923 in Dubuque the son of Nicholas and Lena (Wethor) Loes. He volunteered for service in the United States Army Air Corps in 1943 and arrived in England on Nov. 23, 1944. On his second mission his B 17 crew lost two of four engines and made an emergency landing in France. He went on to complete 27 missions until his discharge on Dec. 26, 1945. He returned to Dubuque and married Georgeanne Koeff on February 18, 1946.

He worked as a truck driver and milk man for area dairies including Oakland Dairy, Hilldale Dairy and Swiss Valley Dairy. He also worked as a school bus driver and lastly worked at Lacoma Golf Course keeping the golf carts running.

Moon was an early member of the Key West Fire Department and achieved the rank of Assistant Chief, he was also a member of the American Legion Post #6 and was on one of the first Honor Flights to Washington DC.

He is survived by his three children Ken (Gwen) Loes of Geneva, IL Sue Manternach of Cascade and Mona Manternach of Dubuque, a former son-in-law Greg Manternach, twelve grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents his wife Georgeanne on March 14, 2015, three brothers Leonard, Joseph and Carl and a sister Rita (Ralph) Linden.

In lieu of flowers a Melvin “Moon” Loes memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff at Eagle Point Place especially Sara, Brandy, Kim, and Jean, and Dr Mark Moore and Dr. Eric Engelman and their staff along with Hospice of Dubuque for all the compassion and care.

Eleanor J. Jach

Eleanor Jean (Cousins) Jach, 85 died Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital.

Friends may greet the family Tuesday, July 31, 2018 from 9 to 11 a.m. at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 1199 Main Street, with a memorial service to be held at 11 a.m. Burial of the cremated remains will be at a later date in the family plot in Grandview Cemetery, Fayette, Iowa, with a prayer service held privately by the family. Hoffmann-Schneider Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1640 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Eleanor was born August 8, 1932, eldest daughter of Roscoe E. and Lena (Starr) Cousins. She graduated from the Fayette Community Schools at age 16 and began work immediately as secretary in the Fayette County Extension Office.

Eleanor married James R. Jach on February 10, 1951. To this marriage five children were born, Cheryl, James, Brian, Michael and Rebecca. They divorced in 1986.

Eleanor was a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Dubuque since 1963, and served seventeen years as church secretary, from 1980 until her retirement in 1997. She enjoyed her membership in the U.M.W. groups, especially the Busy Bees; and helping prepare for the Rummage Sales. She loved the beauty of the church itself, and its people.

Eleanor especially enjoyed all family get-togethers. She liked working with family history, reading, traveling, and keeping in touch with classmates and relatives.

Surviving are her children, Cheryl (Dan) Dolter, of Dubuque and their children, Lena, Amanda and her husband (Bradley Johnson), Louis (Brandie) and his daughter, Zoey, and Anthony (Nichole) Jach; James K. (Ann) Jach, of Dubuque and daughter Sara Cookson and her son Christopher; Brian Jach, of Janesville, WI and daughter Alisha Jones and her sons Collin and Devon Jones and Brian’s son, Aaron (Jessica) Jach, and their children Reagan and Quillen; Michael (Pamela) Jach, of West Des Moines, IA and daughter, Miranda Jach; and Rebecca Harris, of Lisbon, IA and her children Brenton, Brittanie, Benjamin and Brookelyn Bocher; two sisters, Maxine (Dale) Skinner, of Princeton, IA and Ruby (Lowell) Skinner, of Clarion, IA; her long-time special companion and dedicated friend, Gene Sliter, of Fayette, IA; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, a stillborn sister, a daughter-in-law, Jenise Jach in 1989, an infant nephew, and her former husband, James.

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

Scott C. David

Scott C. David, 57 of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in the arms of loved ones after a relentless battle with cancer. Funeral services will be at 7:00 pm Tuesday July 24, 2018 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale road with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until time of services also on Tuesday.

Scott was born in Dubuque, IA on January 7th, 1961, the youngest of ten children. After graduating from Hempstead High School, Scott enlisted in the Air Force. When he returned from the service, he began his career at A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing. Scott was a very hard worker and recently completed his 34th year with the company. While his job was very important to him he always put his family first. He was a beloved husband, loving father, and a phenomenal grandfather. He was a dedicated Iowa Hawkeye, Chicago Cub, and Miami Dolphin fan (even when they sucked he rarely turned them off). Scott was happiest cooking in the kitchen with his wife, Nancy, or playing the backyard with his grandchildren. Scott was quite the cook and often experimented with new recipes in the kitchen. His fried potatoes were consistently cooked to perfection and were requested often for family meals. Scott always had his grandchildren in mind. He would prepare water balloons and squirt guns for a summertime water fight or buy a puzzle because he knew his grandchildren would enjoy it. His grandchildren adored him and could count on “Papa” for a fun time and a snack. He knew the value of family and didn’t need anything else to make him happy. A man a few words, those closest to him knew, when he did speak it was gold. His humor and wit never left him and he was making his family smile until the end. He didn’t have to talk as he had the best “looks.” Just one of those looks and we knew exactly what he was saying.

Scott left a huge hole in the hearts of his loved ones especially his wife, Nancy; children, Spencer David, Rahni Kay (Nicholas) Haverland, Samuel (Marissa) David; step-children, Jeremy (Amie) Tigges, Nikki Tigges; grandchildren, Jayden, Bailey, Sophia, Tanner, Aly, Brady, and Cora; his dog, Baby Doug David; and brothers and sisters, Jan (Kenny) Clemen, Bill (Jayne) David, Judy (Bill) Morgan, Juile (Charlie) Kunau, Chuck (Lora) David, Jerry (Kim) David, Jacki (John) Nelson, Rick (Judy) David, and many nieces and nephews.

Welcoming him to Heaven are his parents, Floyd and Matilda (Weber) David; his brother, James “Nutsy” David; nephew, Phillip; and his in laws, Christina Moore and Raymond Koranda.

The family would like to express there sincere thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and University of Wisconsin Madison Hospitals, doctors and nurses who cared for Scott this past week. We will never forget your kindness.

Lois M. Haislet

Lois Mae Haislet, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa died July 24, 2018. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at the Church of the Resurrection. Family and Friends may gather from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque where a parish wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

Lois was born in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Loretta (Holmes) Delaney on September 28th, 1931. She married Robert E. Haislet on June 28th, 1952 at Nativity Church in Dubuque. She was longtime member of The Church of the Resurrection, joining in 1961.

Lois was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt who loved her family above all else. She married her high school sweetheart Bob Haislet just before he left to serve in the Korean War. While she waited for his return she enjoyed the camaraderie of working as a telephone switchboard operator. Lois was a homemaker during the years her children were young and growing. She then began working at Econo Foods as a food demonstrator, moving on to do the same at Hy Vee on Locust St. for over 30 years. She loved this job and it kept her young as it gave her the ability to interact with the many people she knew in Dubuque. Her family lovingly called her the Queen of Hy Vee.

She loved to spend time decorating her home which was evidenced by the beautiful flowers and plants that were always meticulously placed around her home. Lois was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, loved Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and the all crooners of that time. She loved and embraced life to its fullest, never giving in to the advances of the aging process. She was truly the youngest at heart person we ever knew. We will miss her greatly but take solace that she is now again with her beloved husband Bob and all her other relatives and friends that preceded her.

She is survived by her children: Timothy Haislet (Lisa), Bobby Haislet, Nancy Haislet, Grandchildren: Timothy (TJ) Haislet, Lexie Johansen (Luke), Shawna Haislet, Cassandra Koehler, Anna Koehler, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert E Haislet, Mother: Loretta Delaney (Holmes), Father: John Delaney, Brothers: Milton Delaney and Midge Delaney and other nieces, nephews, cousins.

A Lois Haislet Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers at Stonehill, Dr. Bond, the nurses and techs on the 5th floor of Finley Hospital, and clergy that cared for her during her final hours. The family will be forever grateful to the tenderness, kindness and professionalism they exhibited during this most difficult time. We would also like to thank Church of the Resurrection for their support and assistance and Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory.

Bernice C. Niensteadt

Bernice C. Niensteadt, 92, of Dubuque passed away Monday, July 23 2018 at Manor Care Specialty Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 on Wednesday, .August 1, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Cremains will be buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, July 31, at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road where there will be a wake service.

Bernice was born October 8, 1925 in Sherrill, IA, daughter of Clem and Clara (Neises) Kutsch. She married Justin Niensteadt May 21, 1949 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Sherrill. He preceded her in death on October 2, 2005.

She was a member of St. Anthony parish.

Surviving are her children, Marie (Jim) Trannel, of East Dubuque, IL, Jane Noble, of Dubuque, and Dave (Patti) Niensteadt, of LaMotte, Iowa; 9 grandchildren Julie (Chris) Borneman, Sara (Rogelio) Garcia, and Eric (Seiko Uno) Obershaw, Anne (Josh) Bartlett, Drew Noble, Jessica (Patrick) Rodarte, Brad (Racheal) Niensteadt, Lee (Sarah) Niensteadt and Kyle Niensteadt; 10 great-grandchildren; her twin brother, Bernard “Red” (Adeline) Kutsch, of St. Donatus, IA; and a son-in-law, Steven Obershaw, of Platteville, WI.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, a daughter Deborah Obershaw; four brothers, Harold (Vivian) Kutsch, Walter Kutsch, Francis (Delilah) Kutsch, Richard (Lorraine) Kutsch; a sister Clara (Henry) Kubitz.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manor Care and Hospice of Dubuque for taking great care of Bernice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bernice C. Niensteadt Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be left for the family at hskfh.com.

Rhonda Feldman

Rhonda “Sue” Feldman, 62, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, July 23, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

According to her wishes, services will be private for the family. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road is assisting the family.

Sue was born April 18, 1956 in Dubuque, the daughter of Donald and Shirley Ann (Larkin) Feldman.

Sue is survived by her dad, Donald, of Dubuque; her siblings; Londie Brauer, and Kim Feldman, both of Dubuque, Gina (Mark) Truninger of Clinton, Iowa, Doug (Tanya) Feldman of Des Moines, Iowa, Todd (Dawn) Feldman of Omaha, NE, Tammy (Curtis) DeWulf, of Dubuque, and Tracy Feldman of Madison, WI; many nieces and nephews; and her family dog, Bubbles.

She was preceded in death by her mom, Shirley; her sister, Heather; and two brothers; John in infancy and Timm “T.D.”

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

John J. Rokusek

John J. “Jack” Rokusek, 86, of Dubuque passed away July 23, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded. Friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday July 27th at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road where there will be a wake service at 6:30 p.m.

John was born December 29, 1931, in Dubuque, son of Johnny and Lucille (Williams) Rokusek. He married Julitta “Jill” Slaats, July 5, 1952, enjoying 66 years together. They were the proud parents of three daughters, Jan, Jeralyn “Jeri” and Jolene and one son, Jay. John was a devoted, loving and inspiring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who touched thousands of people’s lives with his great sense of humor, generous spirit, and positive disposition.

He graduated from the former Loras Academy in 1949 and received a Business Degree at the former Bayless Business College in1951.

In 1952 he was inducted into the Korean War. He served as an instructor and made the rank of Sargent First Class in his two-year tender. He was honorably discharged in 1954.

For 30 years of his professional career John worked as a Supervisor in the Finance Division of John Deere Dubuque Works until his retirement in 1981. After retirement he was a part time courier at the former First National Bank for ten years.

John was a faithful member of Holy Spirit-Holy Trinity Catholic Church, frequently volunteering to do construction and maintenance in the church and school and was amongst the first to be installed as a Eucharistic Minister. His passion for woodworking led him to build homes, boats and many other wood crafts. He delighted in spending time on the river and was an avid athlete especially enjoying bowling, softball, horseshoe, and tennis. He also loved music and played the accordion and organ. John was truly a “Jack of all trades”, frequently lending his time and talents to many relatives and friends. His selfless giving and fun spirit was rewarded by a lifetime of being surrounded by exceptional neighbors, family and friends who extended many acts of kindness and help to John.

Surviving is his wife, Julitta “Jill” Rokusek, of Dubuque; daughters, Jan Mussmann, of Waterloo, IA, Jeri (Terry) Noonan, of Iowa City, IA, and Jolene (Dave) Goedken, of Potosi, WI; grandchildren, Michelle and Angie Spadin and Casey Noonan; great-grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary Friedley; and many first cousins who were like brothers and sisters to him.

He was preceded in death by a son, Jay J. Rokusek, in 1986; parents, Johnny J. and Lucille Rokusek; a brother and sister-in-law, Cletus and Germaine Rokusek; mother and father-in-law, Oscar and Florence Slaats; and brother-in-laws Guerdon Slaats and Jerry Kuepers.

John’s family wishes to thank the teams of caregivers at Oak Park Place, Medical Associates, Stonehill Health Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their dedicated service.

Family requests no flowers. A John J. Rokusek Memorial Fund has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfh.com.

Vera J. Finzel

Vera J. Finzel, 74, of Hopkinton, Iowa, formerly of Farley and Epworth, Iowa passed away Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Regional Medical Center in Manchester, Iowa.

Friends & relatives of Vera may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, July 26, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a Memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. with Jenny Hefel officating.

She was born September 15, 1943 in Strawberry Point, Iowa, daughter of Hiram and Gladys (Whitelock) Pierce. She graduated from Guttenberg High School in Guttenberg, Iowa.

On January 11, 1964 she was united in marriage to Sylvester “Butch” Finzel, they later divorced. She met and spent the remaining time with her longtime partner Darwin Goeschel. She worked at the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino and retired in 2005.

Vera loved spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed spending time traveling and collecting porcelain dolls.

She is survived by her longtime partner Darwin Goeschel of Hopkinton, IA; five children, Lynn Finzel of Elkader, IA, Lavern “Buddy” (DeAnn) Finzel of Cascade, IA, Alan “A.J.” (Sara) Finzel of New Vienna, IA, John (Tracy) Finzel and Travis (Angie) Finzel both of Cascade, IA; 14 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; her former husband, Sylvester “Butch” Finzel of Cascade, IA; one sister, Ladonna (Mike) Loetz of Colesburg, IA; two sisters-in-law, Sandy Pierce of Guttenberg, IA and Pat Pierce of Epworth, IA; two brothers-in-law, Dave Sweet of Giard, IA and Ed Wall of Epworth, IA and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five sisters, Martha Pierce in infancy, Myrtle Kruse, Jane Sweet, Jean Wall and Loretta (Rita) Hefel; six brothers, Robert “Bob” , William “Bill”, Thomas, Dick, Jerry and Perry Pierce.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in memory of Vera J. Finzel.

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

Rita A. Petersen

Rita A. Petersen, 79, of Dubuque passed away Monday, July 23, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

Services will be at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, July 26, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, with Deacon Paul Peckosh officiating. Friends may greet the family from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Rita was born May 27, 1939 in Merrill, WI to D.B. and Margaret (Rivard) Cardinal. She graduated from Rock Island Alleman High School in June 1957. She met the love of her life, Gerald R. Petersen, and they married September 19, 1959. He preceded her in death.

She trained as an X-Ray Technician, and then later worked at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rock Island, IL. Later she was a stay at home mother to their four children.

Rita loved to go out to eat, do circle word puzzles, and enjoyed movies and reality TV; but most of all, Rita’s family was everything to her. She especially loved it when the whole family was together for holidays and special events.

She was a long time member of St. Raphael Cathedral.

She is survived by her 4 children, Teresa Petersen, Mary (Jeff) Melssen, both of Dubuque, Jim (Jenn) Petersen, of Bettendorf, IA, and John (Stephanie Schoeller) Petersen, of Ames, IA; four grandchildren, Mallory Petersen and Marqui Petersen both of Iowa City, Shelby Melssen and Jacob Melssen, both of Dubuque.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

The family wishes to thank the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at Mercy Medical Center Cardiovascular Unit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

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

John D. Feller

John D. Feller, 72, of Dubuque, was called home by His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 22, 2018, at home surrounded by his loving wife & children.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 26, at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, 2843 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Tom Dougherty will officiate. Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. Friends may also greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 25, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd.

John was born September 9, 1945 in Dubuque, the son of John L. and Marian (Jungk) Feller. He attended Dubuque Senior High School, where he met the love of his life, Donna Driscoll. After graduation in 1965, the high school sweethearts married on June 17, 1967 at St. Mary Catholic Church.

John was employed at the Dubuque Packing Company, and at Lewis Systems (later Menasha Corp.) until his retirement.

He was a longtime member of Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, where he was active with the audio recordings and nametags ministries. He loved to study the Bible and share the Lord’s word. There was nothing that John couldn’t fix-he was an excellent handyman. He enjoyed woodworking, carving, and whittling. John was a HAM radio operator, and taught Morse Code to his HAM radio club. Camping trips all over the U.S. and Canada were a regular summer vacation, and they included the whole family. John was a kind, gentle, and loving husband, father, and grandfather who loved to spend time with his family and granddaughters.

John is survived by his wife Donna, of Dubuque; two children, Angie (Don) Strohmeyer and John J. Feller, both of Dubuque; two very special granddaughters, Molly Strohmeyer and Laura Feller; four sisters, Marilyn Wasmundt of Dubuque, Karen (James) Wieland of Rock Island, IL, Linda (Randy) Prater of Loveland, CO, and Sue Feller of Berthoud, CO; his brother, Richard (Sharon) Feller of Dubuque; two sisters-in-law, Patty Feller of Dubuque and Laura Feller of Clinton, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lori Feller; two brothers, Paul and Daniel Feller; his sister-in-law, Kathy (Driscoll) Runde; and his brother-in-law, Don Wasmundt.

Memorials may be made to the John D. Feller Memorial Fund for later donation to his favorite charities.

John’s family would like to thank his longtime physician, Dr. Longo; Dr. Liaboe and his staff; Dr. Ringold and his staff; Dr. Whalen; and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Betsy, for all their love and care.

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