Obituaries Archive

Wayne A. Ring

Wayne Anthony Ring, 58, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at home. A private family celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Wayne was born on November 5, 1959 in Dubuque the son of Robert A. and Virginia (Hubbard) Ring and his step father Herman Motsch. He worked at the former Dubuque Packing Co, Farmland, and FDL and was a member of the UFCW local 150A. He lastly worked for HyVee.

Wayne was a caring, giving, gentle soul. The simple things in life were a joy to him. Going for a walk, shooting a game or two of pool, going to the thrift stores to hunt for cut glass items for his collection, and listening to the radio, especially when the Cubs or Bulls were playing, or the trivia games where he could win free tickets were some of his favorites. He will be sadly missed.

He is survived by his sisters Linda (Don) Slattery and Barbara McDermott both of Dubuque and a brother Daniel Ring of Bernard, a sister-in-law Sandy Ring, his stepfather Herman Motsch, and step sister Donna Christensen along with nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Ring, his mother Virginia Motsch, a brother Randall Ring, a sister Susan Doerr, and a step sister Carol Upmann.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Richard L. Wagner

Richard L. Wagner, 91, of Dubuque died Monday, February 05, 2018 at home. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Richard was born April 9, 1926 in Dubuque, IA, son of Matthew and Clara (Gehler) Wagner. He married the love of his life Mary Charlene Coakley on September 7, 1949 in Otter Creek, Iowa. They were happily married for 52 years. Charlene preceded him in death in 2001.

Richard Wagner worked at Stanley Home Products for 34 years as the warehouse manager. He then worked at Dubuque Insulation and Siding for over 20 years as their warehouse manager where he retired at the age of 72 years old. He was a very hard working man who never complained about anything and was a person who would give his shirt off his back to help someone else.

Richard loved calling square dancing, going out for dinner, dancing, and ice cream with his friends and family. He was very successful with being an award winning horseshoe player and baseball player. Richard enjoyed riding his bike, playing cards, and walking at the arboretum. His faith was very important to him. He was a longtime member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral where he ushered for 20 years. Richard loved spending his time with his family. The most precious thing to him was his granddaughter Katelyn. He loved traveling the countryside while watching his granddaughter perform. He traveled all over the U.S. with his family and never missed a single singing or dance competition of hers. Richard was one of the most loving, genuine, and sweetest men you could have ever met. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his only daughter, Linda (David) Soat of Dubuque; and only granddaughter Katelyn (Special friend, Brandon Weber) Soat of Dubuque; and a brother, Merlin (Mary) Wagner of LaMotte.

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Rita Hartman and Aggie Williamson.

For further information, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Richard Wagner memorial fund has been established.

A special thanks to Dr. Abou-Arab, Dr. Waldo Guerrero, Dr. Regan Wolbers, Juliane Rossman, The VA Clinic, David Soat, Brandon Weber, Holly Campbell, Levi Hongsermeier, Makenna Bullerman, Tom, By Your Side Care, and many others who took care of Richard.

Marvin J. Rolfes

Marvin J. Rolfes, 78, of Colesburg, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Edgewood Convalescent Home in Edgewood.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm Friday, February 9, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. 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 am Saturday, February 10, 2018, SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Petersburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John O’Connor will officiate.

Marvin was born August 24, 1939, near Petersburg the son of Lawrence and Mathilda (Willenbring) Rolfes. He married Patricia Goedken on April 8, 1967, in Petersburg. She preceded him in death on August 8, 1976. He later married Janet Vorwald Morley on December 26, 1987, in Petersburg. Marvin farmed on his family dairy farm his entire life.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Rolfes; 7 children: Robert Rolfes and William Rolfes both of Petersburg, Kathleen Hefel of Dyersville, Lori (Larry) Clark of Osage, Lana (Douglas) Hollar of Calmar, Lisa (Todd) Miller of Charles City and Lee (Christina) Morley of Greenville, SC; grandchildren: Nicki (Nick) Klein, Adam Rolfes, Aaron (Jenna) Hefel, Shana Wyman, Christopher (Paige) Clark, Caleb (Hailey) Clark, Dusty (Marshall) Perkins, Nathan (Heather) Hollar, Brandon (Tessa) Miller, Jacob Miller, Shane Miller, Zackary (Sasha) Morley and Heather (Will Thompson) Morley; 11 great grandchildren; in-laws: Germaine Goedken Lavern (Patsy) Goedken, John (Marilyn) Goedken, Norma Brunsman, Inez (Francis) Hermsen, Valeria Bockenstedt, Carol (Dale) Clemen, Mary (Mike) Klein, Barbara (Roger) Bear, Bill Wright, Pat (Mark) Larson, Cindy (Jim) Johnson, Jane (Dave) Moose, Jennifer (Gary) Schroeder, Jeff (Ross) Vorwald and Jeri (Bill) Vincent.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Patricia, an infant son, Thomas Rolfes in 1976, a daughter-in-law, Kim Rolfes; a sister: Mary Ann Willenborg, and a brother and sister in infancy; in-laws: Gilbert Goedken, Helen (Emil) Wilgenbusch, Stella (Leo) Demmer, Mary Lou (Elmer) Engelken, Vernon Brunsman, Irvin Bockenstedt, Kathleen Wright.

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

Janet D. Howell

Janet D. Howell, 65, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side at 5:51 P.M. on Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Janet on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Janet Denise Horkheimer was born on February 21, 1952 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Edwin and Irene (Broadhead) Horkheimer. She grew up in Dubuque and married Dennis Howell August 16, 1969 and they had three children together. They later divorced in 1991.

Janet worked for several years at DynaGear, Hoof, Wady’s and Pacific Coast Feather Factory. She enjoyed fishing, puzzles, reading, playing dice and cards, and spending time with her grandchildren and three boys.

She is survived by her three boys, Jeffrey (Danielle) Howell of Maquoketa, IA, Duane (Dana) Howell of Maquoketa, IA, and Jeromy (Brandi) Howell of Maquoketa, IA; 11 grandchildren, Meagan, Taylan, Katelynn, Kansas, Theresa, Aubrey, Alison, Tinlsey, Marcus, Tayden and Teagyn; her siblings, John (Carol) Horkheimer of Dubuque, IA, Paul (Judy) Horkheimer of Dubuque, IA, and Mary Wharton of Dubuque, IA; many nieces and nephews; and her aunts and uncles, Doris Parr of Soldiers Grove, WI, Helen (Donnie) Parr of Viroqua, WI, George (LuAnn) Broadhead of WI, Jim (Liz) Broadhead of WI, Darrel Broadhead of WI, and Eustace Horkheimer of MI. She was preceded in death by her parents, nephew Jimmy Wharton, granddaughters Averee, Olivia and Gabriella Howell, and special friend Dave Leibfried.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Janet D. Howell memorial fund has been established.

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

Jeane E. Mika

Jeanne E. Mika, 90, of 511 County Rd Z, Hazel Green, WI, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Sunday, February 4, 2018 at home to be with her husband Donald.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2018 at the Gathering Place at the Dominican Motherhouse at Sinsinawa, with Fr. Louis Morrone, OP, Fr. Andrew Carl Wisdom, OP, Fr. Jack Risley OP, and Fr. Dan Davis, OP, concelebrating. Burial will be in St. Clara Cemetery.

Visitation will be after 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 17th at the Gathering Place. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Jeanne was born on July 8, 1927 in St. Paul, MN, the daughter of George and Rose (Brosseau) Trefethen. She was united in marriage to Donald J. Mika on November 25, 1946 at Holy Rosary Church in Minneapolis. He preceded her in death on February 13, 2010.

She modeled women’s clothing, and was a receptionist in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. She was voted top receptionist three different times for the Minneapolis region.

Surviving is a daughter, Sister Debra Mika, OP, of Sinsinawa, WI; a brother, Todd (Joyce) Trefethen of Crosby, MN; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Rose; her husband, Donald; and a sister Phyllis Trefethen.

Memorials may be sent to the Sinsinawa Dominicans and Hospice of Dubuque.

Sister Debra wishes to thank Dr. Greg Vandigo, Dr. Bruce Obbink, and the staff and nurses from Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Stephanie, Stacey, Melanie, Katie G. and Kathy P. for their wonderful care and support.

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

Dennis U. Recker

Dennis U. Recker, 77, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, February 06, 2018 at 3:50 a.m. at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester, Iowa.

Friends and family of Dennis may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Friday, February 9, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Concelebrating will be Rev. Aloysius Vorwald. Friends may also call after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Services for Dennis will be held at noon on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa with Rev Dennis Quint Presiding. A private family burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery at a later date.

Dennis was born on September 7, 1940 in New Vienna, Iowa, son of Leo and Henrietta (Schilmoeller) Recker.

He received his education in the New Vienna area school system, and was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 34 years, followed by an abundant, well deserved retirement. On August 25, 1962 he was united in marriage to JoAnn L. Vaske at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. She preceded him in death on March 10, 2014. He enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi. Dennis also had a great love for golf. Dennis was a committed, selfless man, especially to his wife, JoAnn. He was a very proud grandfather.

He was a member of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Parish, and the Dyersville American Legion Post #137. Dennis served proudly in the Army Reserves.

He is survived by his two sons, Jeff Recker of New Port Richey, Fl and Randy Recker of Plantation, FL; one granddaughter, Cassandra Recker and a great granddaughter, Brianna Recker; his siblings, Ethel Vorwald of Placid, Cy Recker of New Vienna, Gladys Wessels of Dyersville, Doris Wright of Montgomery,IL, Norma (Ken) Eike of Manchester, Roger (Linda) Recker of Ryan, Joyce (Leo) Davidshofer of Dubuque, Larry (Alice) Recker of Tucson, AZ; brothers and sisters-in-laws, Joe (Diane) Vaske of Freeport, IL, Jim (Karin) Vaske of Inver Grove Heights, MN, Mary (Rick) Rauen of Farley, Linda (Bob) Sigwarth and Jack Banwarth both of Dubuque.

He is also preceded in death by his parents Leo and Henrietta; four brothers, Earl Recker, Jim Recker, Melvin and Marvin Recker (infancy); his father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Louise Vaske; sister-in-law, Kay Banwarth and three brothers-in-laws, Paul Vorwald, Ernst Wessels and Wayne Wright.

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

Joey R. Adams

Joey R. Adams, 57, of Kieler, WI passed away on February 2, 2018 at his parents home in Dickelville, WI after a battle with cancer.

Funeral mass will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 10th, 2018 at Kieler Immaculate Conception Church with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Family and friends may gather from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery in Lancaster, WI. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Joey was born on February 19, 1960 in Lancaster, WI the son of Richard and Janis (Bass) Adams. He attended school in Cuba City and worked as a master carpenter his whole life.

He loved working with his hands and building things in his garage. He also enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, horses and gardening. Joey loved his two daughters and his family and especially loved spending time with them during the holidays.

He is survived by his daughters, Crissy (Mike) Gantenbein and Tammy (Brandon) Gann, both of Texas; three grandsons, Lucas & Wyatt Gann and Tanner Gantenbein; his parents, Richard & Janis Adams, of Dickeyville; his siblings, Randy Adams, Lyle Adams and Linda Adams.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Clifford and Beatrice Bass and Frank and Elizabeth Adams and his sister Julie Weber.

Rodney E. Benedix

Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, February 9, 2018, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Rodney Eugene Benedix was born on October 5, 1955 in Sioux City, Iowa, to Dale Eugene and Dolores Virginia (Wendel) Benedix. Rod was a 1973 graduate of Moville, Iowa High School and then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1977 and his music endorsement from Loras College in Dubuque in 1992.

He married Rebecca Ann Conry on July 28, 1979 in Moville, Iowa and they had two children, Ashley Ann-Marie and Katherine JoAnn.

Rod first worked as the K-5 Elementary Music Instructor for the Midland Community Schools from 1992 to 1998. He then became the 6th thru 8th grade Vocal Music Instructor for Maquoketa Community Schools from 1998 to 2014.

Rod was of the Lutheran faith being baptized on November 27, 1955 in Correctionville, Iowa, and confirmed on May 4, 1969 in Holstein, Iowa. He had been a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa where he had served as a part-time organist from 1983 to 2017.

He had also been a former member of the Iowa State Education Association and the Iowa Choral Directors Association.

Rod loved his family and especially loved giving presents at Christmas and birthdays. He especially enjoyed cooking Thanksgiving dinner with his Aunt Katherine for 20 years, having lunch with Katie, always knowing that Ashley had his back, watching Becky change the decorating in the house each and every holiday, taking his mom out to lunch at Red Lobster and shopping with her at Younkers, and family time with his girls.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Benedix of Maquoketa, IA; daughters, Ashley Ann-Marie Benedix of Beaver Dam, WI, and Katherine JoAnn Benedix of Marion, IA; his mother Dolores Benedix of Moville, IA; brothers, Steven Benedix of Renton, WA, Kelly (Suzanne) Benedix of Moville, IA, and Brian (Rochelle Ehlers) Benedix of Moville, IA; sisters, Lisa (Eric) Hunter of Federal Way, WA, and Kimberly (Alberto) Laureano of Temple, TX; step-mother-in-law, Joyce Conry of Orange City, IA; brother-in-law, Dennis (Rita) Conry of Moville, IA; sisters-in-law, Leanna Bottger of Moville, IA, and Janette Conry of West Des Moines, IA; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and special canine granddogs, Cali and Betsy; and grandcat, Tigger.

He was preceded in death by his father Dale Benedix, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Shirley Conry, maternal grandparents Emile and Ida Wendel, paternal grandparents Fred and Marie Benedix, and numerous aunts and uncles.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix memorial fund has been established with funds being divided towards the following: a scholarship for a Maquoketa High School graduate who is a continuing vocal music major, First Lutheran Church Choir fund, and Trinity Lutheran Church in Moville, Iowa towards the kitchen fund.

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

Kathleen M. Brimeyer

Kathleen M. “Kay” Brimeyer, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Saturday, February 3rd, 2018 at home surrounded by her family from complications of Cardiac Amyloidosis.

Funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 8th, 2018 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Gabriel Anderson officiating. Entombment will follow in Mount Calvary Chapel Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 7th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

Kay was born on January 30th, 1944 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of M.J. and Mamie (Powers) Haley. She attended the Visitation Academy and graduated from St. Joseph Academy.

She married Paul Brimeyer on April 24, 1965 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque and together they raised four wonderful children.

Kay worked as a Registered Nurse for many years for the Dubuque area hospitals; and lastly worked for the activity department at Luther Manor for many years.

She enjoyed reading, lunch outings and anything to do with her family members.

Kay is survived by her husband Paul; four children, Scott (Lisa) Brimeyer and Randy (Carrie) Brimeyer, both of Dubuque, Pam (Jay) Zimmer, of Asbury, and Jeff (Sue) Brimeyer, of Belvidere, IL; nine of the best grandchildren anyone could ever have, Justin (Jade Fiedler) Brimeyer, Emily Brimeyer, Luke (Britta) Brimeyer, Sarah Brimeyer, Steve Brimeyer, Molly (Mitch) Boge, Morgan (Dyllon Phillips) Zimmer, Madisen Zimmer, and Michael Zimmer, along with two great grandchildren; her siblings, Mag (Donnie) Hayes and Mike Haley both of Dubuque; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Betty (Clemie) Pins, Hubert “J.R.” (Rose) Brimeyer, Larry Powers, Janet (Paul) Reiss and Barb (Lyle) Kramer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Joseph Brimeyer, Marguerite Brimeyer, Florence (LaVerne) Simon, Dick (Susie) Brimeyer, Anna Mae Powers, Bill (Bev) Brimeyer, Helen Brimeyer, and Mary (Clete) Simon.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Mayo Clinic for further research.

The family wishes to thank the entire medical staff at Rochester Mayo Clinic in Madison for all their wonderful care and kindness.

Delores M. Klein

Delores M. “Dee” Klein, age 85, of Dubuque, and formerly of Rickardsville, was called home peacefully at 3:15 p.m., on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at Luther Manor, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Dee’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, February 8, 2018, at St. Joseph Church, Rickardsville, Iowa, with Rev. Richard G. Gaul officiating. To celebrate Dee’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, February 8, 2018, at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque, Iowa. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Dee was born on November 12, 1932, in Key West, Iowa, daughter of Walter and Anna (Pohl) Snodgrass.

Dee grew up on the family farm in Key West with her 2 sisters. She was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1950, where she received several awards for her short hand skills. Dee would put those talents to good use in the offices of several companies over the years of her working career. Delores married her first love, Douglas C. Taylor, in Dubuque on January 3, 1953, and they would be blessed with 2 sons before he was sadly called home ahead of her much too soon in March of 1963. Thankfully, Dee would find love once again with Clarence J. “Whitey” Klein, and the two would marry on May 11, 1979, at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque and unite their two families with a common bond of love and devotion. They lived briefly on the Klein farm near Rickardsville before eventually moving directly into the city limits of Rickardsville. Dee’s faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a long-time member of St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville, and their Rosary Society. The simple things in life brought Dee great joy and she was well known for her gardening skills, along with her culinary skills in the kitchen. She cherished her friendships and always looked forward to her next outing with her girlfriends for lunch, and maybe even a little retail therapy. Most of all though, Dee loved her family; they all meant the world to her and gathering the entire family together for any kind of event was sure to bring an ear to ear smile to Dee’s face. We will deeply miss our sweet wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, but take comfort in the fact that we will all be reunited once again in our greatest family reunion being held in our Heavenly Estate.

Those left to cherish Dee’s memory include

her husband,
Clarence J. “Whitey” Klein, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Robert (Chris) Taylor, Sioux City, IA,
Gary Taylor, North Carolina,
Michael (Sue) Klein, Epworth, IA,
Patrick Klein, Rickardsville, IA,
Lynne (Andy) Thomas, Dubuque, IA,
William (Mary) Klein, Peosta, IA,
Barbara (Ted) Maiers, Holy Cross, IA,
Beverly (Mark) Leibfried, Rickardsville, IA
Gregory Klein, Rickardsville, IA
and Paul (Cyd) Klein, Rickardsville, IA;

a sister,
Helen (Jim) Neuwohner, Osage, IA;

21 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Dee was preceded in death by her parents, her 1st husband, Douglas Taylor; a sister, Donna (Don) Herbst; and a son, Tom Klein.

In lieu of flowers, a Delores M. “Dee” Klein memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

Dee’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of the wonderful care they have provided Dee, Whitey and her family throughout the years.

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

Pearl A. Kauffmann

Pearl A. Kauffmann, 88 of Farley, Iowa peacefully entered the gates of heaven to join her husband on Saturday, February 3, 2018 surrounded by her loving and supportive family at her home in Farley, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Pearl may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Wednesday at the funeral home.

Services for Pearl will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Richard Kuhn Presiding and Rev. John Ptacek concelebrating. Burial will be held in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

She was born August 12, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Arnold and Alvina (Nauman) Schueller. She received her education from Holy Ghost Catholic School in Dubuque, Iowa. She was united in marriage on July 9, 1949 to Robert R. Kauffmann at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 30, 2006, Pearl has anxiously awaited to be reunited with Bob in heaven.

Pearl was a loving wife, caring mother, grandmother and great-grandmother; devoted farm-wife and homemaker. Together with her husband they started farming in Asbury after uniting in marriage and moved to Farley to continue farming in 1976 where they later retired. She was an avid card player- Euchre and Rummy were her favorite games. She always bragged about having the cutest grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pearl touched the lives of many and was considered “Grandma Pearl” to all that met her. Pearl always had an open door for her many visitors who never left hungry or thirsty, up until her final days.

She was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.

She is survived by two sons, Dave (Sandy) Kauffmann of Sherrill, IA, Rick (LuAnn) Kauffmann of Farley, IA; four daughters, Deb (Dan) Brimeyer of Balltown, IA, Jane (Marv) Schueller of Sherrill, IA, Nancy (Jerry) Pins of Peosta, IA, Teresa (Joe) Hosch of Farley, IA; 18 grandchildren, Dennis (Jessica) Kauffmann, Danielle (Pat) McIlrath, Jodi (Roger) Kress, Jessi (Kyle) Schipper, Denice (Andy) Genthe, Derek (Shannon) Brimeyer, Jill (Kevin) Hoeger, Jerry (Stephanie) Kauffmann, Daryl Kauffmann, Justin (Krystle) Schueller, Julie (Robbie) Kluesner, Wesley (Nicole) Pins, Jenna (Matt) Hosch, Rachael (Dusty) Ploessl, Alex (Sara) Pins, Amber (Coedy) Zuercher, Dillon (Keri) Hosch, and Hannah Hosch; 34 great grandchildren with two on the way; two sisters, Donna (Glen) Koetz and Alvina”Butch” (Don) Skelton both of Dubuque, IA; sisters and brothers-in-law, Maurice “Hap” (Bernette) Kauffmann and Roger Kauffmann both of Dubuque, IA. Mary Margaret Kauffmann of Denver, CO.

She is preceded in death by her Parents; her Husband; two brothers, Raymond (Mary) Schueller and Walter “Pete” (Marie) Schueller; one sister, Delores (Philip) Kauffmann; brothers and sisters-in-law, Bert Kauffmann, Mary (Wilfred) Bradshaw and Joyce Nemmers.

A special thank-you to all her family and friends for all the good times they shared, card games they played and the memories they made. Thank you to Sr. Sharon Kelchen for always “staying in touch”. Also, a special thank you to all the doctors, nurses, therapists, Farley EMS and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care they gave to Pearl. Grandma Pearl’s journey home was truly blessed by three special granddaughters in our family who are nurses, Thank-you Rachael, Jessi and Jill.

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

Marilyn Hallenbeck

Marilyn Hallenbeck, 97, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, February 3, 2018 at home.

Services will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 6, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Rev. Lillian Daniel will officiate. Friends may greet the family from 4:30 p.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. Private burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded.

Marilyn was born June 27, 1920 in Laurens IA, the daughter of George Weston and Dorothy Ester (Perry) Moor. On June 12, 1941 she married John P. Hallenbeck, the son of Harry E. and Florence M. (Wade) Hallenbeck Waterloo, Iowa.

She graduated from Laurens High School and continued her education at the Iowa State Teachers College where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in June 1941 and obtained her Secondary Teachers Certificate. She served her country in the U.S. Army during World War II. She and John lived in Texas, California, Wisconsin and Florida and finally returned to Iowa where they lived until their deaths. Marilyn was employed as a Special Education Teacher in the Dubuque Community School District. Into her early 90’s Marilyn continued to enjoy volunteering as a Foster Grandparent at Irving Elementary School in the mornings and then went to “rock the babies” at Finley Day Care in the early afternoons.

Marilyn loved to travel with John and her family whenever she could. She and John especially liked taking cruises in the Caribbean visiting new places. With the children it was the era of the “road trips” across the USA! Marilyn was an accomplished painter even though she would never admit it. Well into her 90’s she continued to paint whatever inspired her and gifting the paintings to family and friends.

Most of all Marilyn wanted to spend time with her family be it visits to her home, traveling with them or just those quiet times to talk. She is survived by two children, Ron (Pam) Hallenbeck, and Deb (Pat) Hayes; three granddaughters, Katherine Hallenbeck, Sara (Dave) Miller, and Jen (Peter) Rosen and two grandsons, Greg (Nicky) Hallenbeck and Jim (Shawna) Hallenbeck; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; and her son, Gerry.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque who provided so much loving care in Marilyn’s final days.

Darlene I. Crooks

Darlene Iris Crooks, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 2, 2018, at Manor Care in Dubuque.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 7th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will follow in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 6th, at the funeral home.

Darlene was born on July 5, 1941, in Decorah, Iowa the daughter of Floyd and Elsie (Kimber) Kipp. She graduated from Charles City High School in 1959. On February 9, 1963, she married Keith K. Crooks at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.

She worked for the Dubuque Community Schools in food service at Hempstead High School. Darlene was a Member of Key City Sams Camping Club, the Northeast Iowa CB Club of Waterloo, past member of the Dubuque Eagles Club, along with the Charles City and Mason City CB Clubs.

Darlene enjoyed going to flea markets and making crafts. She loved spending time with her dog “Buddy”.

She is survived by her husband Keith; three children, Richard R. (Noreen Daniels) Crooks, of Dubuque, Rhonda Robinson, of Brandon, Iowa, and Rodney (Amanda) Crooks, of Bernard, Iowa. Eleven grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Two sisters Norma Engen, of Minnesota, and Frances (Mark) McCort, of Glendale, AZ; along with four brothers-in-law and five sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her father and mother-in-law, Robert and Eva Mae Crooks and two brothers-in-law.

John M. Conley

John M. Conley, age 83 of Sherrill, Iowa, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2018 at Luther Manor of natural causes. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. with Rev. Steven Lamb officiating. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday and from 10:00 a.m. until time of services Monday at the funeral home. Burial and graveside services will be at Bethel Cemetery, Osterdock, Iowa.

John was born on April 15, 1934 in Colesburg, Iowa, the son of John E. and Marguerite (Roland) Conley. He married Donna Smith in Guttenberg, IA on August 7, 1951. They lived on a farm in Osterdock before moving to Dubuque in 1966. He was an electronic technician who worked at John Deere Dubuque Works 39 years before retiring in 1992. John was a great trouble shooter who could fix almost anything. He was a Jack-of-all-Trades and did master a lot of them. He could play almost any musical instrument however. The trumpet was his favorite which he played in the Frank Barry Band. John loved his 1947 Aeronca Champ airplane that he enjoyed flying in his younger years. He was a ham radio operator, WAODCB, and was a member of the Great River Amateur Radio Club. John designed and built his own house. He was a member of the Dubuque Astronomy Club and hosted their meetings on several occasions.

In the past John was on the Guttenberg School Board, the board at Center Grove United Methodist Church, a member of ARRL and UAW Local 94.

Surviving are his wife Donna of 66 years; daughter, Joanne Gebauer of Dubuque; son John “J.C.” (Jeanne) Conley of Sherrill; 6 grandchildren: Jeff (Dr. Sarah) Gebauer of Steamboat Springs, CO, Jared (Rita Murray) Gebauer of Jackson Hole, WY, Sarah (Nick) Nelson of Belmond, IA, John David (Radquel Macalanda) Conley of Honolulu, HI, Samantha (John) Greene of Dubuque, IA, and Elizabeth (fiancé P.J. Donovan) Conley of Dubuque, IA; eleven great-grandchildren, Liam, Roman, Fiona, Eric, Cole, Elsie, Andrew, Peyton, Sterling, Zoey and Quelvid Kai.

Memorials may be given to Center Grove United Methodist Church.

The Conley family wishes to thank Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and care.

Daniel A. Bagge

Daniel A. Bagge, 80, of Dyersville formerly of Petersburg died Friday, February 2, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Monday, February 5, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Tuesday from 8:30-9:30 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 6, 2018, SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John O’Connor will officiate.

Daniel was born May 8, 1937 in Petersburg on the family farm, the son of Joseph and Clara (Osterhaus) Bagge. He attended SS Peter & Paul Catholic School until 8th grade and graduated from St. Francis Xavier High School with the class of 1955. Daniel served in the United States Army Reserve after graduation. He married Myrna Lansing on September 19, 1964 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna. He worked construction for a few years before moving to the home farm where he began his lifetime love of farming. He continued to help on the Bagge Family Farm for many years after his “retirement”.

Danny’s hobbies included playing Solo, his love of driving RED tractors, golfing with his friends and watching any sporting events on TV; especially the Dodgers, Vikings and Hawkeyes. He dearly loved his grandsons and made it a priority to attend all of their sporting events. Danny was a member of the Knights of Columbus and SS Peter & Paul Parish.

Survivors include his wife, Myrna, children: Melanie (Tim) Krapfl, Matt (Tanya) and Mark (Shyla) Bagge all of the Petersburg area, 3 grandsons: Cameron Krapfl, Aiden and Alec Bagge, 2 sisters:Priscilla (LaVern) Moorman of Edgewood, and Mary Ellen Hoefler of Lamont, in-laws: Carol Bagge, and Joan (Tom) Jasper both of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Elmer and Florence Lansing, siblings: Alice (Albert) Boeckenstedt, Pearl (Omer) Koelker, Jeanette (Cletus) Tauke, Jerome (Imogene) Bagge, Mila Bagge, Betty Bagge, Leon Bagge, Arnold Hoefler and 3 nephews, Bob Tauke, Mike Bagge and Joe Hoefler.

The family would like to thank the Bi County Ambulance for their quick response and Dubuque Mercy Hospital for the compassionate care he received.

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