Obituaries Archive

James E. Walsh

James E. “Jim/JE” Walsh, 91, of Dubuque, reached his eternal destination surrounded by his wife and children Sunday, February 18, 2018 at Grand Meadows.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday at 10:00 am at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church where visitation will be Thursday 3 to 7 pm with a wake service at 6:45 pm. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.

James was born January 8, 1927 in Dubuque, son of Arthur and Rita (Ryan) Walsh. While attending Loras Academy Jim was active in the ROTC. After graduation from high school Jim enlisted in the US Army and served in the Philippines during WWII. He attended North Dakota State, Kansas State and Loras College.

Jim married his best friend and love of his life Geraldine Roethig on October 16, 1948 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Together they had nine children – just enough for him to field his own baseball team which is always a bonus to a diehard Cubs fan.

Jim recognized the importance of family time. He loved caring for his dream home and could be found every Friday riding the John Deere as he and his children manicured the 5 acre lawn. Saturdays he was often armed with the chain saw as he groomed trees and shrubs. The Sunday ritual included piling all of the kids into a station wagon for a ride around the city and county. Even after the kids left home, Jim and Geri could be seen cruising in his red convertible. Jim always enjoyed hosting large get-togethers and barbeques at the house. Any time he had a family gathering he would start up a football, baseball or basketball game for the grandkids. After the games ended he would hook up the wagon to the tractor and give the youngest children rides around the yard.

Jim raised his family on a firm well-balanced foundation of the importance of family, work, service, and sports. His final legacy will be the lessons he taught us about loving life, embracing change and confronting adversity.

Jim took great pride in his role at Bird Chevrolet Company beginning in 1947. He served as President of the company from 1968 to 2008 and Chairman of the Board from 2008 to 2015. Jim truly loved the business and had a true passion for the automobile business. He could usually be found meandering around the show room floor greeting potential customers and joking with the old familiar faces. He knew the value of his employees, chatting with them to find out about their lives and problems. Jim always had a quick wit, and laughter often punctuated those conversations. Along with his time at Bird Chevrolet, Jim served on the board of the former First National Bank.

This desire to serve others was another key element in Jim’s life, which led him to become active in many aspects of his community. Among the many organizations he was a member of were The American Legion Dubuque Post 6, Knights of Columbus, and the Dubuque Lions Club. He also served as president for the latter. Jim was also actively involved with Project Concern in Dubuque, the Boys Club where he served as president, and Junior Achievement. He was a member of the Dubuque Golf and Country Club, Thunder Hills Country Club and the Dubuque New Car Dealers Association. Jim was the driving force, founder and past president of the Westside Business and Professional Mens’ Association. Recognizing the importance of his faith in his life, he became a Charter member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

Jim enjoyed a good round of golf with his friends or family. He also loved watching all sports as well as playing them. As an avid Hawkeye fan, he enjoyed using his season tickets to attend multiple sporting events. Family vacations were often planned around the Chicago Cubs baseball schedule.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Geraldine Walsh of Dubuque, nine children, Tim (Connie) Walsh, David (Judy) Walsh, Jane (Chuck) Northup, James A. Walsh, Mike (Christine/Tina) Walsh, and John (Renee Wedewer) Walsh, all of Dubuque, Kathy (Rick Venable) Brothers of Pleasant Valley, IA, Tom (Carman) Walsh of Iowa City, IA, and Mary (Mike) Hermansen of Shorewood, MN; 20 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; three siblings, Michael (Mary Alice) Walsh, Ellen Schlueter and Sr. Catherina Walsh BVM.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Mary Ann Pufahl and Kathy Walsh, two brother-in-law’s Werner Pufahl and Bob Schlueter.

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

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials will be distributed to Jim’s favorite charities.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Runde and his staff for their compassionate care and attention. A special thank you for the staff at Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care of Jim and the support they gave to the family.

Sucyn A. Tenney

Sucyn “Sue”A. Tenney, 86 of Dyersville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Sucyn’s family services are private. A Memorial service for Sucyn are pending at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Dyersville.

Sucyn was born August 28, 1931 in Albert Lea, MN the daughter of Albert and Selma (Anderson) Ehlert. She married Harold D. Tenney on September 24, 1949 in Spring Valley, MN. She was a waitress in many area restaurants. She collected teddy bears. She was a very cheerful person who had a strong spirit.

Survivors include her 4 children: Julie Tenney of Dyersville, Robert Tenney of Dyersvlle, Barbara (Henry) Mills of Forest City, Jefferey (Lori) Tenney of Vinton, 5 grandchildren: Shay Tenney, Hattie Mills, Thomas Mills, Ian Tenney, Kyle Tenney and brother-in-law, John Steffen of Farley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Harold in 1999, daughter-in-law, Darlene Tenney in 2008, granddaughter, Lisa Tenney, siblings: Barbara Steffen, Wally Ehlert and Mary Ehlert.

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

Dorothy N. Maiers

Dorothy N. Maiers, 85 of Dyersville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at Oak Crest Manor in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Friday, February 23, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where an American Legion Auxiliary Rosary will be recited at 4 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday from 9-10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 24, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Dorothy was born June 7, 1932, in Petersburg the daughter of John and Irene (Koelker) Dingbaum. She married Merlin “Dixie” Maiers on April 14, 1953, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville. He preceded her in death in 1977. She remained on the acreage near Worthington until she moved to Dyersville in 1983. She waitressed at the Cardinal Lounge and the Shot Tower Restaurant, worked as a CNA at the Dyersville Hospital and was a cashier at Theisen’s in Dyersville for 22 years until her retirement in 2002.

Dorothy was an avid card player and enjoyed going to the casino. She was proud to have been able to put her children through Catholic Schools and was especially proud of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: Diane (Steve) Seim of New Richmond, WI, Karen Maiers of Stillwater, MN, Jolene (Jon) Feltz of Beaman, IA, Wayne (Kelly) Maiers of North Liberty, IA, Bruce (Gail) Maiers of Cedar Rapids, IA, Jason (Michelle) Maiers of Manchester, IA, and Dennis (Shawn) Maiers, Kyle (Robyn) Maiers and Jeff (Tricia) Maiers, all of Dyersville; 18 grandchildren: Becky, Nicki, Josh, Mariah, Chapin, Adeline, Jessica, Jeremiah, Jenna, Michael, Sage, Heather, Nicholas, Tyler, Sarah, Chance, Tori and Mia; 13 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; siblings: Lester Dingbaum of Manchester, Veryl Voss of Guttenberg, Rita (John) Garside of Dubuque, and a sister-in-law, Eileen Dingbaum of Dyersville

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Merlin, siblings: Alver Dingbaum, Julie (Leo) Gerken and Therese (Bill) Gibbs; in-laws: Anthony Voss, Virgie Dingbaum, Norma (Fred) Wessels and Gladys (Virgil) Knipper.

We would like to thank the staffs of Oak Crest Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent and compassionate care.

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

Frederick Charles Smith

Frederick Charles Smith, 88, of Dubuque, returned home on Monday, February 19, 2018. He has escaped the confines of his imprisonment with Alzheimer’s disease. Fred was a friend to all and an enemy to none.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Joyce, and their son, Kevin (Tessa) Smith.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 22, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Rev. Gabriel Anderson will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, with military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 21, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque.

Fred was born in Garden Grove, IA, the son of Howard and Dorothy (Stiles) Smith. He was the oldest of three sons, and was preceded in death by his brothers Richard and Bert. Though growing up in meager surroundings, his mother’s influence as a teacher formed Fred’s ambition for studies. He excelled at Garden Grove School and was president of his graduating class of 1947. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 until 1953. He served in Mannheim, Germany as part of the Psychological Warfare Department. He often reminisced about his younger, single days with his comrades-in-arms in Germany where he often said he “fought the war with a pencil”. After his discharge, Fred returned to Iowa where he attended Iowa’s Teacher College (University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls, graduated in 1955, and later obtained his Master of Arts in Education in 1960.

After graduation, Fred met, courted, and married Joyce (Teeple) of Waterloo in 1957. A year later, their son Kevin was welcomed into their lives.

He taught elementary school in Garrison, IA and then moved and lived in Tripoli where he split his time working as Principal at Tripoli and Fredericka Elementary Schools. Fred sought and received a position with the Dubuque Community School System, and the family moved to Dubuque in 1966. In Dubuque, Fred served as Principal for Audubon (1966-1968) and Eisenhower (1968-1984). He retired as Principal from Marshall in 1991.

Fred loved his community, his fellow teachers, and the students. He was an engaged and fair Principal. He cared for the well-being and the future of his students and teachers, and at times went out of his way to help a struggling co-worker or student. After his retirement, it was not unusual to hear his hearty laugh when he was approached by past students and co-workers who would recall the experiences they shared.

Fred loved to fish and as a Dubuquer, loved his Euchre. Keeping involved with the schools, for twenty-five years Fred was a lineman for the football games held at Senior High. And for several years you could find Fred and Joyce kicking up their heels to big-band music at the Cock’n Bull. His most cherished were his wife and son, but he also loved his Boston Terriers, of which he owned five over the years: Lady, Princess, Angel, Molly, and Sadie. And let’s not forget the Hawkeyes; Go Hawks!

Fred will be missed but is now free of the earthly binds. He is with his family, friends, and Boston Terriers. I can now hear his laugh that has been silent for too long. Fred is also survived by his step-grandchildren, Kyoko (Christian) Felland and Kalen (Randi) Bales.

Kevin and Joyce would like to thank everyone at Hawkeye Care Center for all their hard work and care over the last several years. In lieu of flowers, all gifts will be donated to Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Doris O. Weis

Doris O. Weis, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday evening, February 16, 2018, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Doris will be held at 3:30 P.M., Thursday, February 22, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 2:30 P.M. Cremation will follow the service and a private burial will be held at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

Doris O. Jessen was born on March 31, 1928 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Hans and Lulu (Taylor) Jessen. She was a 1945 graduate of Maquoketa High School. She married Marvin J. Weis on July 7, 1948 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Doris was a homemaker and had worked for Howard Woods at Iowa Production Credit Association in Maquoketa as a secretary and office assistant for several years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, the Joinerville Boat Club and the Maquoketa Garden Club.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Marvin J. Weis of Maquoketa, IA; many nieces and nephews; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Dorothy Davis of Metairie, LA, Coletta Littell of Eldgridge, IA and Velma and Dale Hovey of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Francis Wygie Jessen and Arlene Duhme.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Doris O. Weis memorial fund has been established.

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

C. Howard Rogers

C. Howard Rogers, 81, of Cascade, IA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at his home in Cascade, IA.

Friends and relatives of Howard may call from 11 to 2 p.m., Saturday, February 24, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, IA, where arrangements are pending.
Services for Howard will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, February 24, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, with Sr. Jane Rogers and Sr. Marlene McDonnell presiding. Burial will held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, IA with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Howard was born September 5, 1936 in Monticello, IA, son of Charles and Margaret (O’Shea) Rogers. He received his education from country schools and St. Martin’s Elementary and graduated from St. Martin’s High School. Howard served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958.

On September 7, 1963 he was united in marriage to Carolyn Fisher in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ottumwa, IA.

He was a lifelong farmer and he also worked for Robertson Seco for 25 years until his retirement.

Howard loved helping others, taking them to doctors and dialysis appointments. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels for many years. He was an avid Notre Dame Football and Chicago Cubs Baseball fan. Howard was a wonderful storyteller and enjoyed telling stories to his family and friends. He enjoyed playing poker and bowling.
He was a member of the Cascade American Legion Post # 528 and the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carolyn Rogers of Cascade, IA; two children, Bernadette (Pete) Merchlewitz of Fountain City, WI and their son, Sean Merchlewitz, Michael (Tien) Rogers of Claymont, DE and their children Kevin and Jared Rogers; 3 step-grandchildren, Jana (Kellen) Haynes, Jacob (Sarah) Merchlewitz and Josh (Special Friend Nikki) Merchlewitz; 6 step-great grandchildren with one more on the way in May; one sister, Sr. Jane Rogers of Dubuque, IA; two brothers-in-law, Carl Fisher of CA, and Tom Fisher of Ottumwa, IA; one sister-in-law, Andrea (Special Friend George Hopkins) Dalbey of Ottumwa, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Winfred and Hazel Fisher; two sons, Sean Rogers on May 10, 1972 and Kevin Rogers on November 24, 1996; one brother, Leo Rogers; two sisters, Patricia Rogers and Annabelle (Jim) Cigrand.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The family would like to give a Special Thank You to the Staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela for all the wonderful care and support they have given.

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

Lynn L. Disney

Lynn L. Disney, 85, of Grinnell, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday afternoon, February 17, 2018, at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell, Iowa.

A celebration of Lynn’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, February 24, 2018, at the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, February 23, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:45 P.M. Masonic Service will be held. Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Lynn Lamont Disney was born on January 4, 1933 in Wellman, Iowa, to Lester and Opal (Green) Disney. He was a 1950 graduate of Wellman High School and then received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a Double Major in education from Iowa Wesleyan University in 1954. He then received his Masters in 1963 from the University of Iowa with additional postgraduate studies being done at Western Illinois University, University of Northern Iowa and Bemidji State College. He also enlisted in the Army Reserves serving for nine years. He married his college sweetheart, Norma J. Topp on June 26, 1955 in Radcliffe, Iowa, and to this union two children were born: Brian and Rhonda.

Lynn spent over forty years in education serving as an instructor, coach and administrator. He taught his first nine years at Keota, Keswick and Ainsworth. In August of 1963 he began a 32 year career with the Maquoketa School District. From 1969 to 1983 he was the Assistant Principal at the Maquoketa Middle School, and from 1983 until retiring in 1995 he served as the Principal. Lynn and Norma also owned and operated “Disney’s Shoe Barn” in Maquoketa for 7 years.

Through the years Lynn had served on many educational and community boards some of which included the Maquoketa Education Association serving as a past president, Iowa Education Association, School Administrators of Iowa Area IX, Maquoketa Masonic Helion Lodge #36 AF & AM serving as a past Master, and the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

Lynn enjoyed serving on committees, showing horses, playing any card game especially Euchre, fishing, hunting, boating, golfing, and attending grandchildren’s activities.

Those left to honor Lynn’s memory include his children, Brian (Bonnie) Disney of State Center, IA, and Rhonda (Galyn) Gohlmann of Grinnell, IA; 4 grandchildren, Joseph (Brittni) Disney, David Disney, and Teresa Disney, and Trey Gohlmann; 2 great-grandchildren, Bailey and Brody; a sister, Loretta (Don) Gardner of Washington, IA; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Carole Topp of Radcliffe, IA, and Mary Lou Topp of Hubbard, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother Ray, and his wife Norma on May 13, 2010.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lynn L. Disney memorial fund has been established.

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

Alicia Rose Vandermillen

Alicia Rose Vandermillen, 26, of Dubuque, IA became an angel on February 16, 2018. The University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City took exceptional care of Alicia before she surrendered to compilations from Pneumonia. The family would like to thank them and the staff of the Finley Hospital in Dubuque for their excellent care.

To celebrate Alicia’s life, you are welcome to pay your respects from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 with a short memorial service to follow at 7pm. There will be a private burial ceremony held on Wednesday morning at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Alicia’s precious life began on October 3, 1991. She was born in Dubuque to Mike Vandermillen and Kelly Uhlrich who will always thank God for the privilege of being her parents.

Though she was brilliant, she graduated from Dubuque Senior High School by the skin of her teeth after being bribed by her mother with a trip to Mexico. She played by her own rules and knew she could wrap anyone and anything (including her diploma) around her finger with one flash of her beautiful smile. That’s our girl.
Beyond that smile, captivating eyes, and incomparable beauty, Alicia was born with more compassion then could ever be taught. She was adored by all those that she had the pleasure to care for as Certified Nursing Assistant. The crankier the patient, the more of a challenge, the more determined Alicia was to win them over. And she always did.

Alicia was fiercely loyal, remarkably compassionate, determined, stubborn, loving, and of course a force to always be reckoned with – she was truly her father’s daughter. Alicia had an unwavering love for every animal and as much candy as she could get her hands on. Alicia enjoyed shopping and while she had enough clothes, purses, shoes and jewelry to outfit half of the country, she always seemed to find another reason to “pop some tags”.
Alicia loved her family unconditionally. She was affectionately called “Bear” by her Daddy who was her ultimate protector and champion. Her momma Kelly was Alicia’s biggest fan and in reverence, Alicia would scold anyone using the Lord’s name in vain. Her stepdad Greg instilled a love for both the American Flag and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Alicia was a favorite of her grandparents and had a special bond with her Aunts Lynda “Nina” and Melissa.

The love of her life, her best friend, and partner in crime was her brother, Michael Henry. And vice versa, as evidenced by the tattoos they each bear of the other’s name. Michael gave her two beautiful nephews, Jace and Liam. No one will ever be able to replace the huge spot in his heart he has for her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her parents, Mike Vandermillen and Kelly and Greg Uhlrich; her beloved brother Michael and his sons Jace and Liam; and step-brother Dakota. Alicia’s Grandparents are Larry and Rose Abresch, Joe and Sandy Vandermillen and step-grandpa Paul Uhlrich. She is also survived by many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who loved her so very much.

Alicia was met in heaven by her Uncle Kenny, Aunt Beth, Great Uncle Ray and Greg’s mom Pat.

In lieu of flowers please be kinder than necessary to everyone you meet, regardless of their circumstance, and especially if they are Grandpa’s age. That’s what she would have wanted.

Tough it out, that was Alicia’s attitude. It is our wish for all who read this to not take for granted the smallest sign of a true illness and please go to the Doctor. Even the strong fall.

Raymond F. Vincent

Raymond F. “Ray” Vincent, age 70, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 6:40 a.m., on Sunday, February 18, 2018, at Dubuque Specialty Care, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Ray’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Ray was born on May 19, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Alfred P. and Irene M. (Stuart) Vincent.

Ray was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1965. He would go on to work in manufacturing, primarily as a supervisor, until his automobile accident in 1981. Ray would sadly not return to the working world, but instead began enjoying the more simple pleasures in life. After moving to Dickeyville in the mid 1980’s, Ray quickly discovered a little trip over to McDonald’s in Platteville for coffee could easily brighten his day. Stopping at the wayside along the way back to work a few puzzles and check his lotto tickets would also break up the day in a satisfying way. He definitely enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, always had a comment to be shared whenever he felt it was needed, and really just took every opportunity to be the Ray he wanted to be. Our hearts are heavy today with the physical absence of Ray from our daily lives, but we know that he has had a long and bumpy ride along his 70 year earthly journey and that he can finally enjoy true peace and perfection. May God bless you Ray until we meet again, and thank you for all the memories you leave behind.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory include

his siblings,
Carol (friend Ron) Keller, Potosi, WI,
Patrick (Karen) Vincent, Sturtavant, WI
and Karen O’Rourke, Dubuque, IA;

a brother-in-law,
Irvin “Butch” Valentine, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Jeanne (Carl) Klaeska, Jr., Rose Valentine and Marie Vincent; and 2 brothers-in-law, Roger McIntyre Sr. and Ron McIntyre Sr.

In lieu of flowers, a Raymond F. “Ray” Vincent memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Ray’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Dubuque Specialty Care for their kindness and professional care of Ray, and his family.

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

Sr. Isabel Miller

Sister Isabel Miller, BVM (Acarda), 96, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Feb. 17, 2018, at Marian Hall.

Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2018, in the Marian Hall Chapel, followed by a community prayer and funeral liturgy at 10:30 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel cemetery.

Sister Isabel taught elementary school in Waterloo, Boone, Des Moines, and Council Bluffs, Iowa; Chicago, Maywood, and Rock Island, Ill.; Hempstead, N.Y.; Butte, Mont.; Lincoln, Neb.; and Clarksdale, Miss. She was learning center teacher in Muscatine, Iowa, and volunteer in Chicago.

She was born in Davenport, Iowa, on Aug. 5, 1921, to Nicholas and Anna Scheckel Miller. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1939, from St. Mary Parish, Davenport. She professed first vows on March 19, 1942, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1947.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Norman and James Miller; and sisters Genevieve Miller, Mildred Johnson, and Anna Marie Langenecker. She is survived by a brother, John (Charlene) Miller, Davenport; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 78 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.

Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002 is in charge of arrangements.

Constance L. Saffran

Constance Lee “Connie” Saffran, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 17, 2018 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Family and friends may gather from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 21st, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Connie was born on August 31, 1946 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Milo and Rosemary (Westercamp) Weber. She married George Saffran on June 26, 1962 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on January 29th, 2018.

She worked at Marian Hall at Mount Carmel until her retirement.

She is survived by her three children, Karen (Ron) Barker, George (Stacy) Saffran, and Steve (Janie Berendes) Saffran. Grandchildren, Lindsay, Laura, Amber, and Lacey. Great grandchildren, Jayden, Jeep, Ella, Lucy, Lydia, Addyson, Evie, and Charlie. Siblings, Randy (Chub) Weber, Sandy (Dick) Ansel, Danny (Marianne) Weber, and Janelle (Dennis) Duwe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her brother Ronnie Weber.

The family wishes to thank the UW Madison Hospital doctors, nurses and staff for all their wonderful care they gave to Connie.

Daniel G. Dalsing

Daniel G. Dalsing, 63, of Platteville, WI, formerly of Kieler, WI, passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at Our House Assisted Living Center in Platteville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 26, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Kieler, with Fr. Bernard Rott and Fr. Donald Lange concelebrating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 25, 2018 and from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Monday at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center in Kieler, where the parish rosary will be recited at 1:45 p.m. Sunday.

Dan was born on January 19, 1955 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Cletus H. and Frieda (Ihm) Dalsing. He graduated from Southwestern High School in Hazel Green, WI.

Dan worked at Timmerman’s Supper Club for many years, and then worked at Kirchoff Distributing Co., now called 7-G. He really enjoyed being one of their “Fans”.

He is survived by his sister Mary Kay (Bob) Helbing of Platteville; his sister-in-laws, Lorraine Dalsing, Peg Dalsing and Donna Dalsing; and 10 nieces and nephews and their families.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Cletus and Frieda; brothers, Ken, Clete and Jim; sister-in-law, Jane (Dominy) Dalsing; and a nephew, Kent Dalsing.

In lieu of flowers, a Dan Dalsing memorial fund has been established.

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

Marion E. Hosch

Marion E. Hosch, 87, of Cascade, Iowa passed away Friday, February 16, 2017 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Marion may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2017, at Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call on Wednesday after 9 a.m. at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Marion will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at St. Martins Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery.

She was born March 11, 1930 in Monticello, Iowa, daughter of Nick and Carrie (Kurt) Kleitsch. She received her elementary education at Bones Prairie Country Schools and graduated from the former St. Mary’s High School in Cascade. She was united in marriage on September 27, 1951, to Robert P. Hosch at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. She worked for Ensign Coil in Cascade and ERTLS and Scale Models in Dyersville and retired in 1991.

Marion had a love for cooking and enjoyed plants, flowers and completing crossword puzzles.

She is a member of St. Matthias Parish. She was a leader for the Girl Scout – Brownies for many years.
She is survived by her husband, Robert P. Hosch of Cascade, IA; four daughters, Ruth Green of Cascade, IA, Karen (John) Pearsall of San Diego, CA, Ann (Mark) Holmes of Dubuque,IA and Carla (Ron) Hoffman of Cascade, IA; 8 grandchildren, Abby and Andrew Green, Kirsten Kirkpatrick, Owen and Aaron Holmes, Max, Haylee and Trace Hoffman; 10 great grandchildren; Five Siblings, Leona Onken, Sr. Ruth Kleitsch and Wilfred (Rita) Kleitsch, all of Monticello, IA, Edwin and Irvin Kleitsch both of Cascade, IA; one sister-in-law, Sr. Jane Hosch of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Michael Hosch, one son-in-law, Thomas Green, one brother, Carl (Mary) Kleitsch; sisters and brothers-in-law, Doloris Kleitsch, Verna Kleitsch, Carol Kleitsch, Alve Onken, Pauline (Mel) Green, Mary Alma Hosch, Edward Hosch, James Hosch and Charles Hosch.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of River Bend Retirement Center, Shady Rest Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care and support they gave to Marion.

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

Melvin L. Schmidt

Melvin L. Schmidt, age 89, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:00 p.m., on Friday, February 16, 2018, at home, with his loving wife by his side. To honor Melvin’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue, with Rev. Dwayne J. Thoman officiating. To celebrate Melvin’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Melvin was born on October 30, 1928, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Reinhardt and Helen (Doerr) Schmidt.

Melvin started working at the age of 15 with the Dubuque Packing Company, as a ham boner, where he would remain a loyal employee for the next 46 ½ years of his life, until his well earned retirement which finally arrived in 1989. Melvin and Ora Miller were the true definition of childhood sweethearts and soul-mates; finding one another at the innocent young age of 12, while ice skating at Comisky Park in December of 1940. They developed their friendship over the years, and eventually were united in marriage as husband and wife on June 18, 1949, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Melvin built his bride a brand new home and together they filled it with love, and 9 adored children, who always knew they were his whole world. Melvin also had an adventurous side; he loved boating on the Mississippi River, camping with family every weekend, and traveling the country in his Winnebago. He was quite proud of holding the record for buying the most brand new Winnebagos off the assembly line; 11 in total. Melvin took great joy in taking his family and friends, his beloved Shih-poo, Isabelle, and any extra kids lucky enough to have the chance to ride along, to all 50 states, almost every National Park, and multiple visits to Florida and Disney World along the way. In their later years, Melvin and Ora would enjoy their status as snow birds in Yuma for over 25 years; throwing horseshoes, dancing, swimming, attending concerts, making countless memories and many new friends along the way, all the while soaking up the warm Arizona sun. Melvin was always the life of the party, serving up his famous Waterballs and Tanqueray Gin, all the while showing Ora his everlasting physical affection through each and every day. Ora meant everything to Melvin, and he loved her passionately for 68 ½ years. All of the memories we created will last a lifetime, Dad taught us all so much and he will continue to inspire us all. Melvin was undeniably the kind of man we all strive to be, and he did it so gracefully with such a natural ease and kindness that very few of us actually possess. We will miss you everyday, and at every family gathering Melvin, but thankfully we discover real peace in our trust that the Lord definitely has you tucked securely in His loving embrace and that we will all be reunited again one day for the greatest family reunion ever.

Those left to cherish Melvin’s memory include

his loving wife,
Ora Schmidt, Dubuque, IA;

his 8 children,
Terry (Sandi) Schmidt, Apple River, IL,
Deborah (Mike) Hoppmann, Dubuque, IA,
Tim (Barb) Schmidt, Dubuque, IA,
Vickie Parsons, Dubuque, IA,
Ron (Sheri) Schmidt, Epworth, IA,
Paul (Martha) Schmidt, Epworth, IA,
Sandy (Bob) Hunt, Bellevue, IA
and Lora (Todd) Perkins, Peosta, IA;

a daughter-in-law,
Liane Schmidt, Dubuque, IA;

26 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild;

and his siblings,
Jannan Hancock, Dubuque, IA,
Marion Richey, Cedar Rapids, IA
and Harold “Bud” Schmidt, Kansas City, KS.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Michael Schmidt; a grandson, Justin Schmidt; a great-grandson, Christian Lyons; a sister, Helen (Ray) Hintgen; a brother, Ray Schmidt; a son-in-law, Jim Parsons; a sister-in-law, Vernetta Schmidt; and 2 brothers-in-law, Bill Hancock and Bob Richey.

A Melvin L. Schmidt memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Melvin’s family would like to thank Dr. Whalen, the staff at Tri-State Dialysis, and all of the care givers at Home Instead, for taking such wonderful care of Dad.

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

Julita M. Kinley

Julita Marie (Koch) Kinley, 52, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2018 surrounded by her family. To honor Julita’s requests a private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Julita was born on June 15, 1965 in Dubuque to Joseph and Janet (Birch) Koch. She married John Kinley May 14, 2004.

Julita was a master of many talents. Cooking was one of her greatest passions. She had many interests and hobbies which included, using her artistic abilities, spending time with her family, and riding the motorcycle with her husband.

Julita was a guiding light for people in their struggles. Her door was always open to anyone in need. She used the wisdom that she learned to create a beautiful life that she was proud of.

Becoming a grandma changed her life in an unparalleled way. From the moment each child was born, they knew that their MoMo loved them unconditionally.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband and soulmate, John, their Chihuahua Izack; her children, Andrew (Sara) Hanselman, Marianna (Joshua) Smith, and Ivy (Justin) Tott; her grandchildren and the lights of her life Alex, Matthew, Alice, Adele, Charlee, and Iris; her siblings, Pete, Paul (Sandy) Koch, Anna (Ted) Gulhaugen, Mary Jaeger, John Koch, Jim (Sharon) Koch, Matt (Diana) Koch, Mike (Peg) Koch , Rose (Zeke) Zimmerman and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Joe and Janet (Birch) Koch; brother, Andrew Koch; sister-in-law, Sonja Koch.

A Julita Kinley Memorial Fund has been established.