Obituaries Archive

Peter A. Swanson

Peter A. “Pete” Swanson, 82, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Peter Allen Swanson was born September 8, 1942 to Bennie and Grace (Harbron) Swanson in Clinton, Iowa.  He went to Malone Country school through 6^th grade, then attended DeWitt public schools and graduated from DeWitt High School in 1960.  After high school Pete joined the National Guard in October of  1960.  He was honorably discharged in May of 1964.  He was united in marriage to Linda Myatt on September 6, 1964 at First Lutheran Church, Maquoketa, IA.

Pete was raised on the family farm and began farming right out of high school.  He farmed in the DeWitt and Elwood area raising hogs, cattle, corn, beans and hay.  The farm was turned over to his son’s, Jeff and Joel, in 2010.  Pete continued to help on the farm until the fall of 2023.

He was baptized at Emmanuel Lutheran Church and was confirmed as a member at Grace Lutheran Church in DeWitt.  Pete later became a member of First Lutheran Church.

Pete was very active on the Clinton County Pork Producers and served on their Board of Directors.  He also served on the Clinton County 4-H and Youth Committees.  Pete was active in FFA during high school and continued to support FFA when his two sons were in high school.  He was Director of the Lost Nation Consumers Co-op and was a longtime member of the Clinton/Jackson Farm Bureau.  Being a member of the Coronado Car Club gave Pete joy to showcase his restored 1951 Chevy.

Most of all Pete enjoyed farming, fishing trips with his buddies, and deer hunting with the crew.  There were always lots of stories to share when they all got together.  Besides hunting and fishing, Pete became a Harley Davidson enthusiast and traveled to various parts of the state with friends on his big red Harley.   On Sunday afternoons you could find Pete driving around in his restored 1951 Red Chevy looking at the crops.  Pete became an avid wood carver, taking classes in Iowa and various other states, and was a member of the Affiliated Wood Carvers, LTD.

Pete was very proud of his two sons and daughters-in-law, Jeff and Denise, Joel and Deb, along with his three grandkids Chloe, Sean, and Tanner.

Surviving Pete is his wife, Linda; son, Jeff and Denise, grandchildren Chloe and Sean, and son Joel and Deb, and grandson Tanner; and sisters, Jan Fahrenkrog of Eldridge, IA and Mary Jo (Dick) Kelly of DeWitt, IA.  Pete had many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents Grace and Bennie Swanson, sister Carol Hawkins of Arizona, and his in-laws Edward and Mable Myatt of Maquoketa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, January 17, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County, Elwood Cemetery Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Duane A. Clark

Duane A. Clark, 65, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Friday morning, January 10, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Duane Allen Clark was born on October 14, 1959 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Wayne and Tomy Kay (Miller) Clark.  He was a 1978 graduate of Midland High School.  He never married.

During high school and shortly thereafter Duane worked as a farmhand for Forrest and Dixie Miller.  He then worked for Doerr Electric for a short time before working for Bill Hacke Trucking with Midland Grain.  He then worked for IPSCO Steel in Montpelier, Iowa, and lastly for Bullocks, Inc. in Maquoketa.  He retired due to ill health.

Duane loved farming, was an avid arborist and tree planter, and enjoyed going on Tractorcades.

Those left to honor his memory include his mother, Tomy Kay Clark of Monmouth, IA; brothers, Jim Clark of Monmouth, IA, and Wayde Clark of Monmouth, IA; sister, Janeen (Russ) Bollhoefer of Liberty, MO; aunts, Donn Ann, and Ann; nephews, Kirk, Greg, and Joshua; and nieces, Shasta, Caitlyn, and Kali.  He was preceded in death by his father, and a sister Janet.

Per his request, no public services will be held at this time.  A private burial will be held at a later date at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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

Tyler J. Thompson

Tyler James Thompson, 36, of Dubuque, tragically passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as the result of a car accident.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where sharing of memories will take place at 7 p.m. Interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Tyler was born on December 5, 1988 in Dubuque, the son of Terrance Thompson and Robyn Spechtenhauser. He grew up in Dubuque and moved to Manchester in 2008. Tyler began his employment at Runde Auto Group. Then, while in Manchester, he worked at Henderson, mastering the art of running a brake press. Most recently, Tyler was employed at Geisler Bros., starting his HVAC apprenticeship in 2020 with Local 91. He was looking forward to completing his apprenticeship in August of 2025. He took pride in his work often said, “I love hanging duct-work!”

Tyler married Julie Petsch on May 28, 2017 at the Dubuque Arboretum. His love for Julie was unmistakable, as he referred to her as “My Julie” in the most loving and adoring way possible.

Tyler was a serial hobbyist, exploring woodworking, beer making, fishing and gardening (and he was especially excited to harvest limes off of his lime tree!). He always had a project going (or seven). He was an extreme sports enthusiast, from skydiving or kayaking to skateboarding, and even broke several bones while snowboarding. He enjoyed taking his motorcycle for a ride, playing bags with the guys, and listening to music, from bluegrass and old-school country to rap and rock and roll. Tyler loved to cook, whether in his smoker or otherwise, and his specialty was his delicious (fall off the bone) ribs. He was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Green Bay Packers, and he made sure to celebrate every score.

Tyler will be remembered for his genuine, thoughtful, compassionate and loving nature. He had a smile that would light up a room and gave the best hugs ever! Tyler would give you the last dime he had if he knew you needed it.

Tyler is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his mother, Robyn (Robert “Red”) Ferres, of Quasqueton, IA; his paternal grandmother, Karen Thompson; his siblings, Krystal Thompson, Tiffany Lappert, and Dakota and Cameron Thompson; his step-siblings, Brandy Phend, and Brandon and Brittany Horkheimer; his parents-in-law, Joel and Candi Petsch; his sister-in-law, Marie (Scott) Pillard; many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and their pretty kitty, Whiskey.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terrence (Donna) Thompson; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Karen Spechtenhauser; and his paternal grandfather, Gene Thompson.

Special thanks to the first responders, Dr. Wetjen and nurse Maria for all of their help, care and compassion for Tyler and his loved ones.

“Tyler, you are the love of my life, and my favorite!!!” -Julie

Wayne J. Valentine

Wayne J. Valentine, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque on January 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a prayer service beginning at 2:45 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home Facebook page. Committal prayers will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery with Military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Private burial will be held at a later date.

Wayne was born on April 25, 1945, to Leonard (Lenny) and Thelma (Herbst) Valentine in Dubuque. He spent his early years enjoying time at the family cottage at Massey Station, where he developed a love for waterskiing, boating, and fishing. He attended Nativity Grade School and Wahlert High School, graduating in 1963. Shortly before graduating, Wayne enlisted in the Army, where he proudly served for 8 years as a cook.

Wayne dedicated 43 years of his life to working alongside his father and brother Dick at Lenny Valentine & Sons Body Shop. On April 23, 1966, Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Elaine M. Freiburger, and together they had four wonderful children: Theresa, Kristi, Todd, and Gina.

A passionate outdoorsman, Wayne’s love of boating, hunting, shooting, and fishing was matched only by his joy in spending time with his family. He enjoyed fixing anything that was broken, he cherished his John Deere tractor, which he used to mow his lawn and clear snow. As an army cook, Wayne’s cooking skills were truly unmatched. He had a passion for preparing meals, whether grilling up his famous burgers or cooking large family meals that brought everyone together. He took immense pride in supporting his grandchildren by attending their activities, teaching them to waterski, and coaching trapshooting. One of his favorite sayings, “Nobody has it better than us,” reflected his deep gratitude for his family.

Wayne retired from the body shop, but he wasn’t done sharing his time with others. He drove a school bus for the Dubuque Community School District, forging bonds with students and bussing them on extracurricular activities. He also cherished time spent with friends, often joining them for breakfast, lunch, and sometimes supper, with no need to be asked twice.

An active member of his community, Wayne served as a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, president of the Dubuque chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, president of the Dubuque Autobody Association, and Commodore of the Julien Dubuque Yacht Club. He was also involved in organizations like the Izaak Walton League, Rambusters Silhouette Shooting Club, and past member of the Dubuque Shooting Society – 330 club.

Wayne’s love for his family, his country, and his community leaves an indelible mark on all who knew him. He attended the 2024 Dubuque Honor Flight to Washington DC, received a quilt from Breezy Ridge Quilts of Valor, and was awarded the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin. He proudly served on the American Legion Honor Guard as a flag bearer and firing squad member and was a board member of the Dubuque American Legion Building Corporation. He was truly patriotic and incredibly proud of his service and always took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the sacrifices of those who served alongside him.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Elaine; children, Theresa (Jamie) Bahl, Kristi (Gregory) Lincoln, Todd (Christine) Valentine, and Gina (Paul) Schlueter; 13 grandchildren: Alexandra (Luke) Jeffrey, Jessalyn (Ryan) Keith, Matthew and Joseph Bahl, Heather Lincoln (Tony Steffen), Joscelyn (Brian) Schumacher, Hunter and Wylee Lincoln, Kailie (Josh) Peterson, Jordyn Valentine (Mark Duffie), Mike Valentine, Noah and Nathan Schlueter; and 4 great-grandchildren, Emmalyn Jeffrey, Charlie Schumacher, William and Katherine Keith. His sister Kathy (Tom) Meyer, and sister-in-law Mary Lou Valentine, many in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Lenny and Thelma; his brother Dick, his father and mother-in-law, Cletus and Catherine Freiburger; and his brothers-in-law, David Freiburger and John Marini.

In lieu of flowers, a Wayne J. Valentine Memorial Fund has been established in his honor.

Sheila A. Smith

Sheila A. Smith, 48, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on January 8, 2025, at the University of Iowa, Hospitals and Clinics, with her loving family by her side.

Friends and family may visit from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday January 12, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 on Monday January 13, 2025, at the funeral home with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in East Dubuque, Illinois.

Sheila was born on February 26, 1976, in Belvidere, Illinois, daughter of the late David J. and Beatrice O. (Kruse) Raab. She graduated from Belvidere High School. Sheila was a devoted wife and daughter with a heart full of love and selflessness. She consistently placed the needs of others above her own, taking care of anyone who needed it, from her parents, in-laws, extended family, and most of all her husband. Sheila also had a special bond with her pets, cherishing them all, whether they were dogs, cats, or birds. Sheila will be deeply missed by many, but she will always be with us and never forgotten.

Sheila’s memory will live on in her husband Ryan Smith, cousin Dane (Sue) Steiner, father-in-law John Smith, sister-in-law Jenny (Tom) Rogers, nephews, T.J. and Connor, nieces, Leah and Scarlett, and brother Troy (Carey) Raab.

She was preceded in death by her parents David and Beatrice, her mother-in-law Betsy Smith, and several beloved pets.

Sr. Amelia Thole

Sister Amelia (Ida) Thole, OSF, 94, died at 10:38 a.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Clare House, Mount St. Francis, Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 16, 2025. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Sister Amelia was born on November 10, 1930 in Petersburg, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Millenkamp) Thole.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1948 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1954. Sister received her bachelor’s degree in education from Briar Cliff College, Sioux City, IA. She ministered in Iowa at St. Mary, New Hampton, Keota, North Buena Vista, and Guadalupe Parish, Des Moines. She was also missioned in Cuernavaca, Mexico, Chilan, Chile, and Arica, Chile.

Sister is survived by her sisters-in-law, Marge Thole and Rita Thole; brother-in-law Luke Donlon; nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Julia (Arthur) Eike, Rita Thole, and Ann Mae Donlon; brothers, Clarence (Frances) Thole, Raymond (Mary Koch) Thole, Joseph (Verna) Thole, Larry Thole and Ernie Thole.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and the MSFC staff for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, 3390 Windsor Ave., Dubuque, IA.

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

Hubert L. Decker

Hubert Leroy Decker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and proud veteran, passed away at home on January 9, 2025, at the age of 91.

Friends and family may visit from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, January 12th, 2025, at St. Martin’s Church in Cascade, IA, where a prayer service will be held at 2:00 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9:00 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade.

A Mass of Christian burial for Hubert will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 13th, 2025, at St. Martin’s, with Father Mark Osterhaus officiating.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade with full military honors to be accorded by the American Legion Post #528 to follow.

He was born April 21, 1933 in LaMotte, Iowa, son of John and Frances (Pfab) Decker.   He received his education in the Country Schools.  He then then went on to graduate high school from the Loras Academy in Dubuque.  On January 15, 1957, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Liz” Wernimont at St. Theresa in LaMotte, Iowa.   The couple farmed in the rural Fillmore area, until retiring from the farm.

Hubert was a man of few words but he was our strong family leader with a gentle heart.  He led by example and through his faith. He was slow to anger, and disciplined with love, wisdom and compassion.  He liked to travel, attend activities of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  He liked his ice cream, popcorn, and cereal and would shake his head in agreement when his wife made a suggestion. He liked his quick  noon naps while watching his soap operas which may have contributed to his high-level romance.  His “dad jokes” were always on-point.

He was an Army Veteran, having served in Guam.  He proudly participated in one of the Honor Flights from  Dubuque.  He was a member of the Cascade American Legion-Post #528, the Cascade Knights of Columbus-Council #930, and a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth and his 14 children Jerry (Mac) Decker, Mary Jo (Jerry) Connolly, Tony (Laurie) Decker, Kathy (Donnie) Staner, Janet (Bill) Laban, Patty Decker, Phil (Laura) Decker, Anne (Gary) Wilson, Loran (Cathy) Decker, Ellen (Kevin) Niemer, Eugene (Sue) Decker, Jenny (Brian) Federspiel, Sharon (Dave) Rowlet, Jeff (Elizabeth) Decker.

33 Grandchildren – Ryan, Lynndi, Ashlie, Cole, Keri, Shannon, Sara, Brad, Luke, Andrew, Marty, Erin, Nicki, Dan, Alex, Gabrielle, Jared, Brandon, Noah, Nick, Kyle, Emily, Leslie, Ben, Stephanie, Nick, Megan, Gracie, Josie, Estelle, Francey, Natalia, & JJ.

31 Great Grandchildren – Hendrix, Addie, Colin, Jack, Brenlie, Max, Simon, Logan, Ashleigh, Aidan, Nora, Jackson, Allison, Charlie, Hayden, Zoey, Nora, Colie, Drew, Reagan, Will, Koen, Maelynn, Easton, Gunner, Wells, Warren, Claudia, Jerry, Ruby, and Rosie.

Siblings Monica (Cletus) Thielen, Darlene Collins, John “JJ” (Erma) Decker, Louis (Darla) Decker, Melita (Virgil) Hansen, Agnes “Fran” Decker, Bernadine (Mark) Giese, and Kenneth Decker; sisters-in-laws, Evelyn Decker, Charlene Decker and Lynn Decker; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a great grandson Donnie William; his siblings Margaret Mary Decker, William Theodore Decker, William Nicholas Decker, Albert Decker, Raymond Decker, Vince Decker; and Harvey Decker; sisters-in-law Mary Decker, Calista Decker, Phyllis Decker; brothers-in-law Jim Collins and Charlie Wernimont; niece/nephews Karen Manders, David Decker, Mike Decker and Robert Wernimont.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Finley Hospital/Hospice of Dubuque and the countless gifts of food delivered these past days.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family has established a Hubert L. Decker memorial fund in Lieu of flowers.

Christian J. Berner Jr.

Christian J. “Chris” Berner Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on January 8, 2025, in Clinton, Iowa, at the age of 76. Born on June 17, 1948, in rural Clinton County, Iowa, Chris was the beloved son of Christian Julius and Flora Clara (Paarman) Berner Sr.

Chris grew up on the family farm in Clinton County and graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1968. He found his lifelong partner in Barbara H. DeLarm, marrying her on February 13, 1971, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. Together, they built a loving family with their three children, Todd, Anita, and Eric, who brought joy and pride to Chris’s life.

For 32 years, Chris was a dedicated employee at International Paper Company in Clinton, where he spent 25 years as a maintenance person. His commitment to safety and excellence was evident in the training certificates he earned in Hazardous Materials, Asbestos, and Commercial Firefighting. Chris’s work ethic and reliability made him a respected figure among his colleagues.

Chris’s involvement in his community was extensive and impactful. He was a member of the Friends of Maquoketa Caves and Fulton Community Church. He was a former member of the Maquoketa Lions Club, Charlotte Fire Department, and over 25 years with the City of Clinton and Clinton County Sheriff’s Department Reserves. His dedication to public service also included holding a Water and Wastewater Treatment License for the City of Charlotte for over 15 years.

A man of many interests, Chris was known for his love of food and his joy in sharing meals with family and friends. He was also an avid shopper, always seeking the perfect gifts to show his love and care for his family. In his earlier years living in the country, Chris took pleasure in raising turkeys, chickens, and tending to his garden, activities that reflected his love for nature and the outdoors.

Chris’s memory will be lovingly honored by his wife, Barbara Berner of Clinton, IA; his children, Todd (Mary) Berner of Lost Nation, IA, Anita Schnoor of Camanche, IA, and Eric (Kathi) Berner of Lost Nation, IA; his cherished grandchildren, Jordan, Joseph, Gavin, and Camryn; and his sisters, Flora Fowler of Maquoketa, IA, and Milly (Leon) Oberman of Elvira, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William “Bill” Berner, and his sister Lily Pitts.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, January 13, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Lost Nation, IA, Cemetery, at a later date.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or MercyOne Hospice of Clinton.

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

Sheena M. Streckwald

Sheena M. (Fisher) Streckwald, 62, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Unity Point-Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA, following a short illness.

Family and friends may call from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 12th at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14^th at Springhill Cemetery, Beecher City, IL, with Pastor Nick Robertson officiating.

Sheena was born on August 22, 1962 in Shelbyville, IL, the daughter of Richard and Midge (Rhodes) Fisher.  She was a 1980 graduate of Cowden-Herrick High School, Cowden, IL and a 1983 graduate of St. John’s School of Nursing, Springfield, IL.

She was united in marriage to Bret R. Streckwald on November 1, 1986 in Cowden, IL.  Sheena was formerly employed at Shelbyville Memorial Hospital and lastly at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA as an Operating Room Nurse.

She enjoyed craft fairs, flowers, gardening and loved music. Her top priority in life was her family.

Surviving is her husband, Bret; two children, Breann Streckwald of East Dubuque and Bryce (Courtney) Streckwald of Greeley, CO; three grandchildren, Ireland Harkey, Arthur and Henry Streckwald; her mother, Midge Fisher, and sister, Sherri (Brian) Depoister both of Cowden, IL.

She was preceded in death by her father Richard Fisher.

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

Ryan F. Vieth

Ryan Frederick Vieth, beloved Husband, Father, Papa, Son, Brother, Friend and community advocate, passed away peacefully on December 22nd, 2024.

Ryan, born in Waverly, Iowa on April 12th, 1972, was adopted at birth by Harold and Linda Vieth. He grew up with his two younger sisters, Julie (Monzingo) and Diana (Karsten), in Dubuque, Iowa. From a young age he expressed a keen interest in cars, art, and the outdoors. Ryan was a gifted artist, specifically interested in painting, architecture, and woodworking. His pride in his teenage years was his 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS, which he carefully restored alongside his father Harold. Ryan was a member of the wrestling team at Hempstead High School, from which he graduated in 1990.

Ryan attended Mid America Nazarene College in Kansas, graduating with a double degree in Business Management and Communications in 1993. In 1994, he welcomed his first born son, Christian, just before locating his family to Colorado. In 1999, Ryan’s family grew again when his second oldest, Zachary, was born.

In 2005, Ryan met the love of his life Emily, at Exodus Group through Creekside Church. Their love for music, movies, and life sparked their relationship. In 2008, in Centennial, Colorado, Ryan and Emily tied the knot in front of their friends and family. In 2010 the couple welcomed Vincent, followed in 2011 by Aidan, and finally Samuel in 2014. In addition, Ryan became a proud “Papa” in April 2024 when Christian and his wife Azalia welcomed Rafael.

Professionally, Ryan was a skilled IT specialist. He founded his own business Adrenaline Creations in 2007. This venture later evolved into Adrenaline IT, which Ryan continued to operate until his passing.

He was an avid outdoorsman throughout his life and introduced all of his sons to hiking and camping in the Rocky Mountains. In addition, he passed down his enduring passion for carpentry and metal music to his boys.

In September of 2019, Ryan was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer. He fought the disease voraciously and became known as a passionate advocate for all people who have been impacted by it. Ryan documented his fight through social platforms, podcasts, and community organizing. Ryan was actively involved in two cancer advocacy organizations, Fight Colorectal Cancer (CRC) and Man Up to Cancer.

Ryan served as a host of Fight CRC’s Climb for a Cure in Colorado in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, he represented Fight CRC at the Cologuard Classic PGA Tour golf tournament in Tucson, Arizona, where he played in the Pro-AM alongside Kevin Conroy, CEO of Exact Sciences. Ryan was a member of the Fight CRC Ambassador program in 2023, and participated in Call-on Congress, Fight CRC’s legislative advocacy program. He was the recipient of the 2024 Mike Mancini Hero Award for going above and beyond in furthering Fight CRC’s mission.

Ryan was also a part of Man Up to Cancer’s Howling Place community, where he shared his lived experience with cancer, and was a leader in the Colorado Chapter. He was most recently involved in MUTC’s efforts to create a constituent relationship management program. Ryan was beloved by the people he met in both organizations, inspiring them to advocate for themselves and others.

James N. May

James N. “Jimmy” May, age 54, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 7, 2025, with his youngest daughter Mikayla Randall right by his side playing his favorite music.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on September 21, 1970, in Dubuque, IA, the youngest son to Tom and Donna (Hillard) May.  He had a natural ability to be the life of the party and always enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  Jim worked at Spahn & Rose for a time, but those who knew him best always understood that his heart was continually striving to be surrounded by his friends and family.  When time allowed, he wasn’t afraid to try his luck at the casino.  Jim enjoyed getting tattoos as well and took great pride in each one, always willing to share and show off his collection.  He also had a lot of love and appreciation for his music and quite often his surroundings were filled with his favorites playing in the background. Jim had an affinity for fast cars too and enjoyed testing the limits whenever possible.  He also made time to do a little mall walking from time to time and if he met you during his walk, you could be sure he was working on his next good joke in an attempt to bring a smile to the face of anyone who ventured into his path. You could often see him walking with his twin sisters, “Patty” and “Pammy” who would eventually end up leaving him behind because he just couldn’t, or wouldn’t keep up.  It’s beyond heartbreaking to have to say farewell for now to Jimmy much too early in his life and we do hope and pray that he now resides in eternal peace completely free from his earthly health battles.  Thank you, Jimmy, for reminding us that life is not meant to be taken so seriously that we often forget to take a moment to enjoy it and may the memories you leave behind help to comfort our heavy hearts until we meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his three children,
Brittany May, Dubuque, IA,
Jade Ernzen, Dubuque, IA,
and Mikayla Randall, Dubuque, IA;

Mikayla’s mother and friend,
Mandy Randall, Dubuque, IA;

his granddaughter,
Rebecca Ruff;

his siblings,
Kevin (Theresa) May, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Jan) May, Dubuque, IA,
Pat May, Dubuque, IA,
Pam (Dean) May, Dubuque, IA,
Tom (Cheryl) May, St. Catherine, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors;

Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Jim’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jamie R., for all of their professional and compassionate care.  A very special thank you to Marvin Ney, Jimmys lifelong friend from Paramount Ambulance, for bringing him back home to Dubuque.  We would also like to extend a very special and heartfelt thank you to Jim’s brother, Kevin and his wife, Theresa, for opening up not only their hearts, but also their home during this difficult time. Also to his siblings Kevin, Bob, Tommy, Pat and Pam for all of their love, comfort and company in his final days.  And finally, a huge thanks to his lifelong friend and the mother of his youngest daughter, “the love of his life” as he would say Mandy Randall, who surrounded him with love, comfort, and kindness throughout his final days with us. May the Lord bless all of you who have helped Jimmy and truly helped to bring a little peace into his life when needed most.

Online condolences for Jim’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

John W. Vonderhaar

John W. Vonderhaar, 84, of New Vienna, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation for John will be held from Noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 12 p.m. and the Dyersville American Legion services will be held at 6 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9:30 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for John will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, Iowa with Rev. Philip Agyei presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Boniface Cemetery with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

John was born on October 24, 1940 at his family home in New Vienna, Iowa, son of Albin and Agnes (Schwers) Vonderhaar.  He received his education from St. Boniface Catholic School in New Vienna, Iowa.  On November 14, 1961, he was united in marriage to Judith Lucas at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa.  Together the couple farmed on the family farm in the rural New Vienna area. This farm has been in the family since 1847 and has been recognized as a Century and Heritage Farm.  It was on this farm where the couple raised their three children along with fostering over 40 boys.

He was a member of the St. Boniface Parish in New Vienna, Iowa.  John was a veteran having served in the United States Army.  He was a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.  He was also a founding member of the Tri-County Sportsmens and the New Vienna area Historical Society.

Those left to cherish John’s memory are his wife of 63 years, Judy Vonderhaar of New Vienna; three children, Bill (Shirley) Vonderhaar of New Vienna, Susan (Travis) Meadows of Valparaiso, IN, and Mike (Shirley) Vonderhaar, Beloit, WI; 8 grandchildren, Johnathan, Sabrina, and Samuel Vonderhaar, Andrew and Lucas Vonderhaar;  Osman Alibasic (Sondra Bennett) of Dubuque, IA; Milisa (Pat) Torrance of Dyersville, IA;  Jacob, Rebecca, and Taylor Close ; Tanner Meadows; Nancy (Doug) Hoefler of New Vienna, IA; Rebecca (Korey) Stockman; Chase Miller; one brother, Francis (Elaine) Vonderhaar of New Vienna; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tom (Ruth) Lucas of Dyersville, Mark (Jen Stansberry) Lucas of Coralville, John (Bev) Lucas of Sherrill, Joe (Michele) Lucas of Lake St. Louis, MO, Dan (Angie Phillips) Lucas of Minneapolis, MN, Carrie Schmitt of Richardsville, Connie (Leon) Jaeger of Dubuque and Barb Lucas of Iowa City; step brothers and sisters-in-law, Al (Jeanne) Kluesner of Dubuque, Peter (Karen) Kluesner of New Vienna, Duane (Mae) Kluesner of Holy Cross, and Chuck (Donna) Kluesner of Peosta; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; grandson Dillon Bond, Scott Close; one brother, Leonard (Margaret) Vonderhaar; two sisters, Theresa (Jim) Elgin, and Rita (Mel) Schuster; father and mother-in-law, Lawrence and Dolores (Meinen) Lucas; step mother-in-law, Dorothy (Englin) Kluesner-Lucas; brother-in-law, Mike Schmitt; step sister-in-law, Cathy Kluesner; step sister-in-law Jean Kluesner; three nephews, James, Randy, and Steve Vonderhaar; and one niece, Debra Burkart.

A Video Tribute may be viewed, and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Dale G. Ball

Dale G. Ball, 85, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Monday, January 6, 2025, at Harmony Care Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon Mike Timmerman officiating. The burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dale was born December 5th, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, to Irvin and Dorothy (Dausener) Ball. He served in the US Navy 1959-1961 followed by seven years in the Navy Reserves.

He was always cracking jokes, Dale was a huge Iowa Hawkeye fan and enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time at the casino.

Dale is survived by his special cousins, Dana (Dale Winter) VanOstrand and Laura (Jay) Leigh, who is also his Goddaughter, along with many other cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff at Harmony Care Center, especially Tammy; also to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelly for their exceptional care of Dale.

James L. Roseliep

James Louis Roseliep was born on May 28, 1949, to Cathryn (Heim) and Louis Roseliep. He was the second of three children, including his older brother, Tom, and younger brother, Dan. He grew up in the North End on Central Avenue, attending school at Holy Ghost and Wahlert High School.

Jim was a product of the post-war baby boom, and his tastes ran to the era’s typical obsessions: rock ‘n’ roll, the Yankees, The Three Stooges – and above all else, cars. Jim’s love for muscle cars was completely unbounded, although he swore allegiance to Chevy over Ford, and more specifically, to Corvettes over all other cars. Jim wasn’t bookish by conventional standards, but give him a model year of a Corvette or Camaro and he was ready with the specs. As a teenager he and his friends burned around Dubuque in their parents’ cars, and when those weren’t fast enough, they bought their own to speed through deserted county roads. On Fridays in the warmer months Jim’s crew would head to Cordova, Illinois, where they raced modded muscle cars on the quarter-mile track. Sometimes they won, too.

Jim’s dad, Louis, founded Office Furniture Warehouse, and from a young age Louie’s sons learned firsthand what it took to run a business. When Louie started tinkering with home security systems, Jim took it on as his personal challenge. Eventually Jim left his two jobs at Beecher’s and the Pack to found his own company, Security Products of Dubuque.

By the mid-1970s business at Security Products was thriving, and so was his personal life: Jim married fellow Dubuquer Jacquelyn Zwack. In 1981 their first child, Will, was born. Three years later a girl named Justine came along, prompting a move from their house on West 17th Street to Fairway Drive, where they’d stay for over twenty years. Their third and youngest child, Andy, arrived in 1986.

Jim worked long hours, even starting a second business – Classic Motors of Dubuque – as a way to buy, sell, and talk cars. But first and foremost Jim was a family man. Always one for parties and impromptu celebrations, he and Jacquie decked their house for every holiday, and every gathering, large or small. They hauled the kids all over town for sports practices and music lessons. And the family were regulars at Sunday Mass, first at Nativity, then St. Anthony’s, and finally St. Raphael’s.

The life of a business owner is never uncomplicated, starting with the daily running of a team of workers, and extending out to all aspects of a business, including sales, service, and reams of paperwork. Jim greeted everything with a smile and characteristic resolve. By quitting time he’d be back home cooking meat on the grill, cigar in hand, with kids and dogs running around the backyard.

In the mid-2000s Jim’s fortunes changed. He suffered a series of mysterious medical incidents that had doctors baffled. Ever one with the soft touch – Jim was a kid at heart who loved practical jokes, working on model trains, or racing slot cars with the kids – he was now sometimes closed off and impatient. It took years for him to receive the diagnosis that explained the changes his family noticed.

After selling Security Products, Jim stayed busy consulting and working out car deals. But his greatest success during this period was becoming a grandpa four times over. Jim was overjoyed that his family now included Axel, Effi, Viggo, and Georgie.

Jim Roseliep passed away on January 3, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Cathryn, and his brother, Tom. Jim will be remembered for his generosity, his love of family, and his inexhaustible supply of stories about fast cars and bygone days.

Online condolences for Jim’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

David J. Haas

David J. Haas, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday January 6, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday January 10, 2025, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 1780 White St, Dubuque, Iowa 52001.

Funeral Service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday at the church with Pastor Ann Fritschel officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Dave was born on May 31, 1950, the only son of Warren C. and Velma (Earle) Haas. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1968. He was a Vietnam Vet who honorably served his country in the Air Force, stationed at Biloxi MS, Thailand and Offutt AFB, Omaha NE and later in the Naval Reserve in Dubuque. On July 29, 1981, he married his Belmont, Wisconsin sweetheart, Kaye Kilian, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

He worked at Theisen’s in Dubuque for 25 years until his retirement in 2012. To his family, hundreds of friends, and motorcycle buddies, Dave was a beacon of warmth and friendship. He enjoyed being a great photographer for all of the music venues in the tri-state area.

Dave is survived by Kaye, his son Kyal (Brianne Boals) Haas of Dubuque, sisters Sandi (Terry) Schmidt of Apple Canyon Lake, Illinois and Sue (Mike) Schwartz of La Motte, Iowa, and nieces and nephews Nicole and Finley Schmidt, Jacob (Cyndy Montgomery) Schwartz, Jeff (Stephanie) Schmidt, and Molly (Jamie) Scott, Greta and Enid, brothers-in-law Ken Kilian, Randy Kilian, and Rick Kilian, and his fur-babies Snickers and Friskie.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Lorraine Haas, and in-laws Lyal and Melva Kilian.

In lieu of flowers, a David Haas Memorial Fund has been established.

David’s final great act was the donation of his pacemaker to the Iowa State University College Lloyd Veterinary Medicine Center for the advancement of science and care of dogs.