Obituaries Archive

Alan Z. Applebee

Alan Z. Applebee, 63, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2018, at his home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in Soldier’s Grove, Wisconsin. A Natural Journey Farewell with cremation has taken place. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Alan Zane Applebee was born on January 3, 1955 in Richland Center, Wisconsin to Royden Morris Sr. and Edith Irene (Strahl) Applebee. He grew up in Wisconsin and was a graduate of North Crawford High School in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.

Alan had worked for O’Reilly Auto Parts and most recently for Baron Auto Parts, both in Maquoketa. He had also been a bartender at the Maquoketa Country Club for several years and delivered pizzas for Happy Joes.

Alan enjoyed being outdoors doing anything such as hunting, fishing and mushrooming. He also enjoyed his El Camino car. Through the years he had lived in Wisconsin, Florida, and for the past 20 years in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Lucas Applebee of Soldiers Grove, WI, Jennifer Applebee of Gays Mills, WI, Alan Applebee of Maquoketa, IA, and Aaron Applebee of Muscatine, IA; 4 grandchildren, Cam’ron, Denisis and Luca Applebee, and Barney Conner; brothers DaLee (Phyllis) Applebee of Evansville, WI, and Stanley Applebee of Viroqua, WI; sisters, Charlotte Applebee of Janesville, WI, Diana (Tod) Christianson of Soldiers Grove, WI, and Mary Applebee of Janesville, WI; and his former girlfriend, Shirley Risden of Maquoketa, IA, and her children, Valerie (Craig) Williams of Maquoketa, IA, Jessica (Lonnie) Howell of Bernard, IA, CJ (Carrie) Risden of Maquoketa, IA, and Elijah, Cameron, Jaden and Jacob Risden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Harlean Miller, and brothers Paul, Royden Jr., James and Charles.

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

Sister Rose André Koehler, BVM

Sister Rose André Koehler, BVM, 92, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, passed away May 8, 2018, at Marian Hall.

Visitation will be from 9-10:15 a.m. on Monday, May 14, 2018, in the Marian Hall Chapel, followed immediately by a Sharing of Memories and Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel cemetery.

Sister Rose André was principal at St. Anthony ES in Dubuque. She taught elementary school and/or was principal in Des Moines and Davenport, Iowa; Chicago; Butte, Mont.; Lincoln, Neb.; and Stockton, Calif. She was teacher aide/tutor in Montgomery, Ala.

She was born in Boone, Iowa, on Oct. 13, 1925, to Andrew and Christina Gossman Koehler. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1943, from Sacred Heart Parish, Boone. She professed first vows on March 19, 1946, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1951.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Firmin Arthur; and sisters: Genevieve Kiddie, Roberta Finch, Mary Anderson, and Rosellen Koehler, BVM (Jean Christine).

She is survived by nieces and nephews, and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 74 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online. Make a donation in Sister’s honor.

Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Hwy. 35N, E. Dubuque, IL 61025 is in charge of arrangements.

Harlan J. Hazer

Harlan J. Hazer, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in Chandler, Arizona.

A memorial service celebrating Harlan’s life will be held at 7 P.M., Friday, May 18, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 4 to 7 P.M. at the funeral home. A private family burial will be at the St. Lawrence Cemetery, Otter Creek, Iowa, at a later date.

Harlan J. Hazer was born on October 3, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Clarence and Elda (Marcus) Hazer. He was a 1958 graduate of Holy Rosary High School in LaMotte, Iowa. He married Doris Flenker on July 10, 1965 in Otter Creek, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Brian, Dave and John.

As a young man, Harlan farmed with his dad on the family farm, but his true passion started when his uncle Joe Marcus showed him how to drive a semi. He then became an over the road owner-operator for over 40 years of Hazer Trucking.

Harlan grew up in the Otter Creek area until retiring to Maquoketa in 2007 and spending the last five winters in Arizona. In retirement, you could find Harlan fishing at 6B’s, riding his 3-wheel bike or attending his grandchildren’s activities. He was a devoted grandfather that often enjoyed having pizza on the porch with the grandkids.

Those left to honor Harlan’s memory include his wife, Doris Hazer of Maquoketa, IA; children, Brian (Jen) Hazer of Bernard, IA, Dave (Kim) Hazer of Maquoketa, IA, and John Hazer of AZ; 7 grandchildren, Morgan Hazer of Bernard, IA, Colton Hazer of Iowa City, IA, Kailie Hazer of Davenport, IA, Faith Hazer of Bernard, IA, Jake, Jarod and Jordan Hazer of TN; a brother Al (Lois) Hazer of AR; and sisters-in-law, Darlene Cook of Maquoketa, IA, and Mary Kay Flenker of Maquoketa, IA.

He was preceded in death his parents and an infant sister Joan Hazer.

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

John Luher

John Luher, age 77, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 7:30 a.m., on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To honor John’s life, funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, with Fred Schueller officiating. To celebrate John’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:30 a.m., until the time of services at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in British Hollow Cemetery, Potosi, Wisconsin. Full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

John was born on June 23, 1940, in British Hollow, WI, son of Robert Frank and Martha (Gillilan) Luher.

John honorably served his country with the U.S. Army in Germany for 2 years. His patriotism would carry on throughout his entire life, and his love for God, country, freedom, family and friends would all be tied for first and second places most days. John was a dedicated and hard working man who invested over 34 years at John Deere Dubuque Works, until he finally retired in 1999. John was united in marriage to his beautiful bride, MariLynn Tranel, on December 13, 2013, in Dubuque. The cute couple would quickly find many common interests to share their time together with and easily bring joy into one another’s life over the past 4 years. John generally enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors; whether it be tending to his expansive garden and apple orchard, heading out during morel season, sitting in the tree stand waiting for the perfect buck to happen by, or sitting out on the ice, or under the sun, with a perfectly baited fishing pole in hand trying to land the biggest catch of the day. John also had a thirst for knowledge and always enjoyed reading, keeping up with the current news and politics, as well as any opportunity to recapture a little history. John was also quite the card shark, and to willingly sit down at the table with him was not just considered an automatic loss, but also dramatically increased your likely-hood of sitting in the direct line of fire of a spirited conversation, and maybe even a few one-liners followed up with a hearty laugh. John was undeniably the living embodiment of a good and decent man; his natural drive to put other’s before himself, care for his friends and neighbors, and even spoil the family pets simply because he could were continually on display throughout his entire 77 year earthly journey. We will miss John more than he could ever imagine, and our hearts and minds will ache for more time than we can hope to bear; but we find some peace in knowing that John is home now, resting from his labors in his eternal estate while waiting in perfection for us to join him. Thank you John for all of the love, wisdom and the wonderful example you leave behind, we will treasure them all each day we’re apart!

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

his loving wife,
MariLynn Luher, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
John (Kris) Luher, New Hartford, IA,
William (Tara) Luher, Boone, IA,
Anne Luher, Dubuque, IA,
Andy (Rachel) Tranel, Mukwonago, WI
and Tina (Johnny) Sindahl, Kernersville, NC;

his grandchildren,
Trevor Payne,
Kaitlyn and Natalie Akers,
Kennedy, Sage and Emersyn Tranel
and Jake, Turner and Charlie Sindahl;

his sister,
Dolores Barrette, Clinton, IA;

his 1st wife,
Kathryn Luher, Dubuque, IA;

and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; and his 8 siblings.

John’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Finley Hospital, and Finley Homecare, for all of their kind, compassionate and loving care of John, and his entire family.

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

Glen N. Milligan

Glen N. Milligan, age 87, 12 hours short of his 88th birthday, of Dubuque, who resided with his son, Jim, was called home peacefully at 11:36 a.m., on Monday, May 7, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Glen’s life, funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m., on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street, with Rev. Alan J. Dietzenbach officiating. To celebrate Glen’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, May 11, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post #6.

Glen was born on May 8, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Harold and Mildred (Hocking) Milligan.

Glen was a proud life-long Dubuquer, who honorable served his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was united in marriage to Joanne Crippes, but sadly she was called home ahead of him in 1985. Glen was blessed and fortunate enough to find love once again with Mary Hildebrand, and they were united in marriage on August 2, 1985, in Dubuque. Glen was a very dedicated and hard worker who not only put in over 31 years as a machine operator at John Deere Dubuque Works, but also found the time and energy to work nights at the Dubuque Packing Company for 14 of those years before he finally retired. Even after retirement, Glen quickly discovered he couldn’t sit still and found spending another 5 years at Medical Associates was a good way to utilize some free-time. Glen was a very active gentleman when it came to faith, community, co-workers, family, friends and comrades. He was a long-time and faithful member of St. Patrick’s Church, along with the U.A.W. Local #94 Retirees, V.F.W. #9663 of Dubuque, the Forty & Eight Club, a 50 year member of the East Dubuque Drum and Bugle Corps, the Eagles Club, and the American Legion Dubuque Post #6, where he was a loyal member of the funeral detail. Glen also generously gave of his time as a Member of the Governors Volunteers and the Mercy Hospital Volunteers. There is absolutely no denying that Glen was always happiest when he was serving others. Glen was a happy, honest and humble man who continually led through his actions. His impact on the Dubuque community, and the world around him in general, was always positive. Our hearts break at the mere thought of his absence from our daily lives, but we know and trust that he’s at peace with our loving Creator now and that all the love Glen shared during his 87 year earthly journey was definitely not in vain. Thank you Glen for all of the wonderful memories you leave behind which will thankfully bring us true comfort until we meet again!

Those left to cherish Glen’s memory include

his loving wife,
Mary Milligan, Dubuque, IA;

6 children,
Deborah (Harry) Saunders, Dubuque, IA,
Teresa (Dan) Turnmeyer, Dyersville, IA,
Tom (Cathy) Milligan, Dubuque, IA,
Jim Milligan, Dubuque, IA,
Sue (Ellen) Milligan, Dubuque, IA
and Rita (Mike) McCarty, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren;
Brad (Heather), Brett, Bryan, Tyrell, Stephani (Mike), Shane (Joelle), Sheyanne (Chuckie), Matthew, Mitch (Nicole), Travis (Mariah) and Joshua;

14 great-grandchildren;

and his sisters,
Katy (Bruce) Pfalzgraf, Dickeyville, WI
and Joan (Albert) Reuter, Valley Head, AL.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents; his 1st wife, Joanne Milligan; a sister, Carol (Jerry) Cole; and a step-son, Dale Larson.

Glen’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for their caring, professional and compassionate care of Glen, and his entire family.

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

Darlene Lucille Becker

Darlene Lucille Becker, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed peacefully on May 4th, to join loved ones waiting for her in heaven.

Those loved ones included her husband of 50 years, Roger Becker; her parents Ralph & Marcella (Hanson) Kremer; her brother Gene Kremer; her sister Mary Kay Kremer; her brother Ralph Kremer and his wife Regina; as well as her son-in-law Randy Mills. Numerous other family members on her husband’s side of the family also proceeded her in death as well.

Those that are left behind to grieve her loss and miss her dearly include her children and their spouses: Vickie (Rick) Mills; Daniel (Sue) Becker; Wade (Carla Pfab) Becker; Brenda Mills; Glenn (Lori George) Becker; Doug Becker; Larry Becker; Lisa (Tom) Droullard; Rory (Jenny) Becker; and Angi (Darren) McCarthy. She was smitten with her grandchildren and they adored equally as much. Her grandchildren include: Nathan Mills; Jeremy & Amanda Becker; Kristen (Joe) Parks; Janelle Anderson; Michael Mills; Andrea, Nicholas, & Molli Becker; Zachary & Corey Droullard; Jessica (Travis) Meier; Brianna (Cody) Brimeyer; Justin Becker; and Alex, Carter, & Gavan McCarthy. And as if that many grandchildren to love her wasn’t enough, she was doubly blessed with great grandchildren as well. Her great-grandchildren include: Brooklyn; Madison; Connor; Kameron; Trenton; Aydin; Xzavier; Damari and Romalyn.

Darlene left an impression on those she met. She never was in shortage of conversation and made new friends wherever she went. Her personality shone brighter and stronger than her tiny 4’8′ stature. She loved being a social butterfly and looked forward to getting out and about as well as having visitors, especially in her last year of life when the independence she so loved alluded her. She had great love for her family and was devoted to taking care of them in any way she could. This also extended to others she cared about. She was a kind soul with a big heart. Don’t let that fool you though, those that knew her also knew she was spunky and would give you her opinion if you wanted it or not. As much as we never wanted to admit it, she was often right. Her strong will, determination, and tenacity was as clear as a bright blue sky. If you miss that, you won’t have to look far, as this is something she passed on to her 10 children. She knew a lot about a lot and in a true old-fashioned way tried to solve problems and fix things on her own, with her own hands, skills, knowledge, and life experience. There were many things she loved in life, but her grandchildren and great grandchildren took the cake. She lit up whenever she seen them and had a special bond with each and every one of them. She could always make someone smile, whether it was through chatting with them or making them laugh. I think we are all going to miss that laugh and that smile. She was many things to many people. So much so she had various nicknames from different people including: Ma Becker, Cotton Candy Grandma, and Doctor Darlene. This little lady was so much more than we can encompass in words.

In true Darlene form, she desired no wake or funeral service. Her wishes are being honored with a private burial ceremony at Mount Olivet Cemetery for her children and grandchildren. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

If you knew our mother, you would know that she left a lasting impression. Thus, we cannot leave it at that and must celebrate who she was with memories and stories. The family would like to invite all who knew her to a celebration of life ceremony on Saturday June 23rd at the Eagles Club on Century Drive anytime between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their special care of our mother and support of our family.

Robert Joseph Burns

Robert “Bob” Joseph Burns, 88, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, May 6, 2018, at Manor Care.

Services will be at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at GracePoint Church, where friends may greet the family from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Rev. Dana Perreard will officiate. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements.

Bob was born February 25, 1930, in East Dubuque, the son of Thomas and Bess Burns. He attended Dubuque Senior High School. Bob married Jennie Udelhofen on August 13, 1949.

He was an independent auto mechanic, an employee at Bacon Veneer, and an independent log hauler.

Bob enjoyed music, cars, and boating. He loved spending time with family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Jennie Udelhofen Burns; three children, Karen (Doug) Storlie of Dubuque, Dennis (Myles Slavit) Burns of Miami, FL, and Joseph (Mary) Burns of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Matt (Anne) Storlie of Eagan, MN, Greg (Jeanne) Storlie of Lakeville, MN, and Scott Storlie of Apple Valley, MN; and three great grandchildren, Jonah, Kate, and Emma Storlie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Harold Scharff; and four siblings, Tom “Alan,” Mary, Beatrice, and Betty.

Memorials may be made to the family.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Manor Care; the 2nd floor staff at Mercy Hospital; Dr. Tom Sinsky; and Dr. Preeti Joseph for their care of Bob.

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

Joseph M. Bowerman

Joseph M. “Joe” Bowerman, age 63, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 6, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Joe’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, May 11, 2018, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating. To celebrate Joe’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Joe was born on October 22, 1954, in Baltimore, MD, son of Biays and Lois (Powers) Bowerman.

Joe was a proud graduate of Wahlert High School, Class of 1972, and in true patriotic fashion would immediately join the Marine Corps after graduation. Joe would go on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Marines Corps for 6 years, and then joined the U.S. Navy Reserves, where he spent another 20 years until his eventual retirement from the military in 2001 as a Senior Chief Construction Mechanic, CMCS. During his service, Joe was able to not only visit many of the bases stateside, but he also had the opportunity to make it to Japan and Puerto Rico. He continued to enjoy getting together monthly, with his fellow comrades from the Seabees, to swap stories and solve the world’s problems without any interference from outside forces. Joe was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jane Hartmann, on October 2, 1976, at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. They were truly blessed with 41 wonderful years together, and 4 adored children. Joe was undeniably raised with a strong work ethic and after serving active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps, he continued to put his talents to great use in the maintenance departments at Sears Auto Center, and Loras College, until his final retirement from the working world in 2008. Joe also used his considerable skills to work on his beloved 1968 Dodge Dart, always keeping it in tip-top shape and spending “countless hours” working on his full-body restoration. His spiritual faith was of the utmost importance to Joe also as he was a long-time member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral, and continually strived to be the best man he could be while trapped in his earthly temple. Joe and Jane also enjoyed traveling extensively and loved to share the photos, souvenirs and stories they collected along the way with family, friends and anyone with an open ear. Without a doubt though, spending time with his family was the one thing which brought Joe the greatest joy throughout his life; and when the grandkids, and great-grandkids starting coming along, his joy was abundantly doubled. We are deeply saddened with the loss of our beloved husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend, but take comfort in knowing that Joe is finally free of the health challenges he has faced so gracefully the last 2 years. Joe, you were an excellent example of what it means to be a true leader and patriarch of such a loving and extensive family, and we will diligently carry those lessons forward with us until we see you again!

Those left to cherish Joe’s memory include

his loving wife,
Jane Bowerman, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Donald “Don” (Tracy) Bowerman, Fort Worth, TX,
Jennifer Reif, Dubuque, IA,
Nick (Mady) Bowerman, Dubuque, IA
and Katie Jo (Tom) Besler, Dubuque, IA;

7 grandchildren,
Debbie (Mark) Allen, Collin Bowerman, Sam Bowerman, Christian Reif, Ethan Reif, Brock Reif and Morgan Quick;

a great-granddaughter,
Ashley Allen;

his siblings,
Stephen (Janet) Bowerman, Colorado Springs, CO,
Mary Bowerman, Tacoma, WA,
Paul (Stacie) Bowerman, Wilmington, NC,
Beth (Ken) Jaeger, Dubuque, IA,
Rich (Jennifer) Bowerman, Hendersonville, NC
and Pete (Sue) Bowerman, Makanda, IL;

his several nieces and nephews;

and his dear and special friends,
Vince Conner, Doris Hannan, Lisa Williams, Janet Quick and Maurna Stover.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; and his in-laws, Don and Mabel Hartmann.

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

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

Mary Kay Leytem

Mary Kay Leytem, 77, of Dubuque passed away on Monday, May 7, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Friday, May 11, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Thursday, May 10, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd with a 7:30 pm Scripture Service, additional visitation will be 9:15 am – 10:00 am, Friday prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Mary Kay was born July 8, 1940 in Dubuque the oldest child of John J. and Lenore M. (Knockel) Leytem. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy and worked at various places over the years, until retiring from A.Y. McDonald.

Mary Kay always enjoyed the Cat Fish Festival and enjoyed being around her family.

Survivors include her siblings, Jeanette Loso of Rockford, IL, Jane (Garth) Tomkins of Asbury, Connie Kemp of Mesa, AZ, Madonna (Roger) Sopha of Arlington, WI, Sue (William) Davis of Durango, Luellen Swan of Asbury, Lynn (Richard) Koos of Peosta, William Leytem of Dubuque, John “Whitey” (Lois) Leytem of Asbury, and Daniel “Joe” (Maureen) Leytem of Asbury; also surviving, numerous nieces and nephews.

May Kay was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Michael Leytem; nephews, Steven and John Tomkins, Matthew Sofa, in infancy a nephew Jordan Sopha and a niece, Lori Kemp; brother in-laws, Loras Kemp and George Swan; a great niece, Laura Tomkins; and longtime friend, Donna Ginter.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial find has been established in Mary Kay’s memory.

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

Emery Meeker Jr.

Emery “Fred” Meeker Jr., 90, of Dubuque, IA passed away Friday, May 4, 2018 at Hillcrest Luther Manor in Dubuque, IA.

Friends and relatives of Fred may call from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Saturday, May 12, 2018 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA. The Reiff Funeral Home of Epworth, IA is in charge of arrangements.
Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Pastor Robin Luckey presiding. Burial will be held at Highview Cemetery in Epworth, IA, with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Fred was born January 9, 1928 in Tulsa, OK, son of Emery “Fred” and Elma (Stanzyk) Meeker Sr. He is a 1945 graduate of Lena High School in Lena, IL. He is also a 1955 graduate of Bayless Business College which was in Dubuque, IA. On July 23, 1946, he was united in marriage to Ardrith A. “Ardie” Allen. He was employed with the Illinois Central Railroad for 42 years as a telegrapher and Agent Yardmaster.

Fred was an Army Veteran, serving in the Korean Was from 1951 to 1953 as a Radio Operator for the Peace Convey using international code and was present at The Peace Treaty and exchange of prisoners at Panmunjom in July of 1953.

Fred enjoyed cutting firewood, working on the apartments and square dancing. He was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, the American Legion John White Post #650, the Highview Cemetery Association and the Epworth Historical Society.

He is survived by his wife Ardrith “Snowball” Meeker; his children Paul (Lorie) Meeker and Robert Meeker; a granddaughter, Arleta Meeker; a brother, Harold Meeker; a brother-in-law, Marvin (Rosemary) Nickol; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by a son, Dennis Dean Meeker on January 30, 1956; his parents; his father and mother-in-law, Arnold and Minnie (Nickerson) Allen; his sisters-in-law Arlene A. Nickol, Beth Meeker and Betty Meeker.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorials be given to St. Peter Lutheran Church, Hospice of Dubuque, Hillcrest Luther Manor Care Center or a charity of your choice.

A special “Thank You” to Cozy Corner, Hillcrest Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Thomas Sinsky, Medical Associates and family and friends for the good care Fred received.

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

Francis J. Reinert

Francis Joseph “Frank” Reinert, 84, of Dubuque died Friday, May 04, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Church of the Resurrection where visitation will be held Wednesday from 3 to 8 pm with a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m. Entombment will be in Mt. Calvary Mausoleum where military rites will be accorded.
Francis was born January 27, 1934 to Anselm and Henrietta (Deppe) Reinert of Petersburg, Iowa. He graduated from Loras Academy and attended Loras College. He served in the Army in Germany 1956-1958 in the 5th Infantry, 8th Division Hq Co and band. He married Mary Theresa Kraus on April 20, 1960 at Immaculate Conception Church, Sand Springs, IA. She preceded him in death February 20, 2004.

Francis was a member of Local #289 Dubuque Musicians Association, Clarence Zahina Band, Frank Barry Band, and the Music Masters Band. He retired from Peoples Natural Gas Co after 31 years and was a member of Gas Workers Local 402. He worked as a yardman for Ed and Joan Tschiggfrie for 21 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for 60 years and the Northeast Iowa Boy Scouts Council for 42 years. He served as Scoutmaster of Resurrection Troop 91 and was an Order of Arrow Vigil member and advisor. During his years of involvement in Scouting, Francis was honored with receiving; George Meaney Award, Award of Merit, The St. George Emblem, The Founders Award and The Silver Beaver. He was fortunate to be able to go on Honor Flight VIII in 2013. He enjoyed woodworking, crafts and his grandchildren.

He is survived by his children Theresa Schreiber (Bill Howard) of Williamsburg, VA, Robert Reinert (Jill Connors) of Dubuque, IA and Carolyn (Paul) Herman of Peosta, IA; his grandchildren Maria (Luke) Sulentic of Algona, IA, Stephanie (Steven) Cook of Gilbert, AZ, Matt (fiancé Ariel Clark) Herman of Peosta, IA, Courtney Herman of Peosta, IA, Nick Reinert of Omaha, NE, and Aubrey Reinert of Cedar Rapids, IA; and two great grandsons, Peyton and Graham Sulentic of Algona, IA. His siblings, Margaret (Bernard) Monaghan of Manchester, IA, Cecelia (Don) Lueck of Dyersville, IA and Agnes (John) Coakley of Kansas City, KS; Sisters-in-law Ann (Boeckenstedt) Reinert of Dyersville, IA and Janaan (Smith) Kraus of Monticello, IA; Brother-in-law Carl (June) Kraus of Worthington, IA and many nieces and nephews.

He is also preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Ann (1944) and brother Alfred (2014), brothers and sister-in-law Victor (Janice) Kraus and Walter Kraus.

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

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Skilled Care Unit, Roots, Resurrection Choir members. The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to long-time friend and band member Otto Krueger of Dubuque, IA.

Janette M. Strang

Janette M. (Kirby) Strang 74 of Peosta died Friday, May 4, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, May 10, 2018 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta. Family will greet friends 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd. with a 7:00 pm Scripture Service. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Janette was born May 24, 1943 in Hopkinton, daughter of Paul and Helen (Haas) Kirby. She was the only girl in a family with six children. She married Joseph Strang on November 25, 1961 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello, Iowa, he passed on June 21, 2007. Janette worked at Kmart for many years, she also owned and operated the Double J Bar for 30 years. Jan loved the people she got to know as friends at the Double J Bar and became well known for her delicious sloppy joes and broasted chicken; a person never went hungry with Jan around. Jan enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking, reading, family get togethers and watching her grandchildren in whatever endeavor they were involved. While always a sweet and kind person, she had no problem taking your money in Euchre, Pinochle, Poker…sitting down and playing cards for a few hours was her idea of a good time. She will be missed and will miss her card partners in crime.

Survivors include her two sons, Brad (Kim) Strang of Dubuque and Brian Strang of Dubuque; her three daughters, Cindy (Tom) Steffens of Peosta, Sandy (Jeff) Urbain of Peosta, and Sarah (Edward) Maloney of LaGrange, IL; twelve grandchildren, Nathan and Nicole Strang, Krystal Hesseling, Billy Patrum, Jessica Fleckenstein, Molly and Michael Steffens, Rachel Millman, Chad and Katelyn Urbain, Samantha and Joseph Maloney; six (almost seven), great-grandchildren, Addelyn, Kaylee, Paige, Carter, Dylan, and Ayden; four brothers, Alan (Lorna) Kirby, Kenneth (Sandy) Kirby, Ronald (Kathy) Kirby all of Strawberry Point; and Thomas (Dorothy) Kirby of Monticello.

Janette was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years; her parents; a brother, Robert Kirby; and her daughter in-law, Cindy Strang.

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

The family would like to thank Jim and Kim Koetz for their spiritual support of Jan the last months of her life and the staff at Finley Hospital who supported Jan. Jan’s family would also like to thank, her good friend, JoAnne McGuire for her help over the last several months.

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

Alan W. VanOstrand

Alan W. “Web” VanOstrand, 51, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Sunday, April 29, 2018 from injuries received in a motor vehicle accident near Luxemburg, IA.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a Christian Prayer Service will be held at 7:30 p.m., with Deacon Tony Kepplerofficiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Alan was born on December 6, 1966 in Dubuque, IA, the son of J. Wade and Marilyn (Doser) VanOstrand. He attended East Dubuque High School. Alan married Debra Leppert on December 8, 2017 in Dubuque, IA.

Alan was a manager at Miracle Car Wash.

Surviving is his wife Debra; two children, Uriah and Olivia; three step-children, Emily Leppert, Brittany Walters and Tori Walters; five step-grandchildren; his mother, Marilyn VanOstrand; his siblings, Terry, David (Deb), Todd (Laurie), Kirk (Michele), Brian (Lisa), Jody (Chad) Clikeman, Joe (Angie), and Jon (Darcie); his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mike and Dorothy Leppert; sister-in-laws, Theresa (Dave) Hughes and Laura (Jason) Sindahl; numerous nieces and nephews; and his former wife, Dana VanOstrand.

He was preceded in death by his father Wade and two nephews, Nicholas VanOstrand, and Jason Wanke.

In lieu of flowers an Alan W. VanOstrand memorial fund has been established.

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

Joan P. Lawler

Joan P. Lawler, 70, of Peosta, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 4, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Joan may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at St. John’s the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m, Wednesday at the church. The Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

A Mass of Christian burial for Joan will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at St. John the Baptist in Peosta, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding and Rev. Richard Kuhn concelebrating. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Centralia, Iowa.

Joan was born May 5, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Merlin J. and Jean (Wilkinson) Connolly. She received her education from the Casey’s School through the 8th grade and graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1965. Following graduation she worked at Xavier Hospital until going to nursing school at Eastern Iowa Community College in Davenport, Iowa where she graduated with her LPN in 1969. After graduating she returned to Xavier Hospital and worked until 1974. On December 27, 1975 She was united in marriage to William “Bill” Lawler at Holy Family Catholic Church in New Melleray (rural Peosta), Iowa. The couple farmed in the rural Peosta area. Joan was a Nurse at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa for 15 years until her retirement.

She was a member of St. John the Baptist Parish in Peosta, Iowa and past president of St. John’s the Baptist Alter and Rosary Socety and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Joan was a first responder for Centralia – Peosta Fire Department for 22 years.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Lawler of Peosta, IA; five children, Jeff (Colleen) Lawler of Peosta, IA, Tim (Terri) Lawler of Dubuque, IA, Rick (Sue) Lawler of Epworth, IA, Shelly (Jeff) Wolf of Peosta, IA and Dan (Cori) Lawler of Dubuque, IA; 13 grandchildren, Dallas (Ben), Becky (Jake), Garret, Jesse (Kara), Cody (Cali), Austin, Levi, Hannah, Alex, Amya, Keyonna, Noah and Ryley; 5 great grandchildren, Colton, Nate, Caden, Reece and Tatum; three sisters, Madalyn Schilling, Doris (Ronald) McAuliffe, Marla Baumgartner all of Peosta, IA; one brother, Ronald (Linda) Connolly of Dubuque, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one son, Kevin J. Lawler on November 22, 1988; and a sister-in-law, Mary Connolly; brother-in-law, James Schilling and many aunts and uncles.

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

Terri Ann Conner

Terri Ann Conner, age 52, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. To celebrate Terri’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 6, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Terri was born on April 4, 1966, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Robert and Lorraine (Rokusek) Kleinschrodt.

Terri was united in marriage to the love of her life, Mark Conner, on September 25, 1999, at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque. The loving couple has been blessed with 18 years together, and 2 adored children. Starting in 2004, she began working at Dubuque Internal Medicine and was able to earnestly share her “sometimes overly organizational skills” with many co-workers and friends for almost 12 years until her health restricted Terri from continuing on a daily basis. Terri was also a great lover of the outdoors; whether it was a weekend of camping at Waupeton with the family, enjoying a lazy day under the sun out on the pontoon boat, relaxing with her canine companion Lucy by her side, or hitting the open road with Mark on the Harley for the day to enjoy the wind in her hair, anytime Terri was outside in the fresh air, she was surely smiling. Above all though, family was always the most important aspect of Terri’s life and nothing could ever bring her true joy like a little personal time with the grandkids. Sadly, the last few years have presented a series of health challenges for Terri to face. But, in true Terri fashion, they were all faced with the courage and positive spirit of a real fighter. She never gave up, always kept those around her positive and her attitude through it all has been nothing short of a real life inspiration of the type of character we’d all wish to possess through even the toughest days along our earthly journey. We will miss Terri more than words could ever possibly depict, and only time and faith can possibly heal our hearts now; but we are forever grateful for the 52 years the Lord shared Terri with us, the beautiful memories and wonderful example she leaves behind, along with the knowledge that Terri is not only reunited with her Dad once again, but also gets to spend a little quality time relaxing with her other favorite canine companion, Lucky.

Those left to cherish Terri’s memory include

her loving husband,
Mark Conner, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Leland (Megan) Conner, Dubuque, IA
and Amanda (Daniel) Wallin, Dubuque, IA;

her 5 grandchildren,
William and Camden Conner
and Travis, Derrick and Amelia Wallin;

her mother,
Lorriane Kleinschrodt, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Kevin and Kimberly;

and also several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Terri was preceded in death by her father, Robert Kleinschrodt.

Terri’s family would like to thank Dr. Mark Hermann, the Oncology Department, along with the nurses and staff on 4th Floor at Finley Hospital for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Terri. The family would also like to extend a very special thank you to Terri’s long-time and dear friend, Deb Newcomer, for always being there through each and every day.

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