Obituaries Archive

Jeanette M. Bettcher

Jeanette M. Bettcher, 85, of Dubuque died Thursday, April 5, 2018 at Unity Point-Finley Hospital. Private family services will be held.
Jeanette was born December 16, 1932 in Dubuque, daughter of Henry and Mabel (Hedrick) Gottschalk. She married her childhood sweetheart, LeRoy Bettcher on January 21, 1950 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Co. for 17 years, before opening Longhorn Saddlery with her husband in 1968.

Jeanette was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who loved, and excelled at, cooking and baking. She also enjoyed bowling and horseback riding.

She is survived by her husband, LeRoy Bettcher of Dubuque; a son, James “Jim” Bettcher; two grandchildren, Travis Bettcher and Chelsea (Meg) Mitchell; a sister, Irene “Toots” Herbst and a sister in law, Dorothy Gottschalk, all of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter in law, Leesa Bettcher; a brother, Earl Gottschalk and a brother in law, Leo Herbst.
Memorials may be made to Jeanette Bettcher Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health ER and ICU as well as the first responders with the Asbury Volunteer Fire Department.

Betty Jean Bell

Betty Jean Bell, 89, of Hanover, Ill. died Friday, April 06, 2018 at Galena Strauss Care Center. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Betty was born August 18, 1928 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Frank and Grace (Redmond) Reisen. She married Robert Bell on September 11, 1947. He preceded her in death on May 25, 1994.

Surviving are two daughers, Diana (Ted) Spas of Missoula, Mont., and Kathy Mulholland of Hanover, Ill.; a son, Robert “B” (Amy) Bell of East Dubuque; six grandchildren, Scott (Beth Ann) Mulholland, Michelle Mulholland, Theodore “Teddy” (Hanna) Spas, Jesse (Jackie) Bell, Johnathon (Brittany) Wachter and Courtney Hicks; six great grandchildren, Chelsey Smith, Ashley (David) Albrecht, Abigail Mulholland, Noah Folks, Garrett Mulholland and Brooklyn Hicks.

She is also survived by a brother, Joe (Janaan) Reisen, of Zwingle; a sister, Shirley Kempter of Richarson, Texas and a sister in law, Jean Reisen of Zwingle.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Debra Sue Bell; a son in law, Robert Mulholland and a brother, Richard “Bud” Reisen.

For further information please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

David J. Mescher

David J. Mescher, 82, of Monticello passed away Friday, April 6, 2018, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello where a parish vigil service will be held at 3 pm and a family rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning at St. Luke Catholic Church prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 12, 2018, at St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton with burial at St. Paul Cemetery in Worthington. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

David was born in Dyersville the son of Henry and Mathilda (Koopmann) Mescher. He married Janet A. Werner on January 28, 1961, in Sand Springs. She preceded him in death in 1997. He later married Jean A. Tschantz who also preceded him in death in 2010. He worked at Energy Manufacturing for nearly 35 years.

Survivors include his children: Andrew (Tara) Mescher and Lori (David) Nightingale, both of Monticello, and Michael (Lorraine) Mescher of Swampscott, MA; 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandson; a special friend, Lila Joslin of Manchester;
siblings: Alfred “Fritz” (Jeanette) Mescher and Richard (Jean) Mescher both of Dyersville, Gilbert (Bernice) Mescher of Farley, Robert (Lou Ann) Mescher of Strawberry Point, Armella Phillips of Fly Creek, NY; in-laws: Jacqueline (Arnold) Merkes of Manchester, Susie (Ron) McDermott of Mt. Vernon, IA, Richard (fiancé LaVern) Werner of Richland, MO, Pat (Marilyn) Werner of Hopkinton, Robert (Cheryl) Werner of Grimes, Ed (Sue) Werner of Epworth, and Steve (Linda) Werner of Dyersville and Beth Whisler of Dubuque.

He is also preceded in death by his parents, one son, Christopher Mescher, siblings: Louis, Harry, Clarence “CJ” and Bill Mescher, Viola Mescher, Alice Althoff, Marie Kramer and Rosemary Nelson; parents-in-law, Rose and Bill Werner, and a brother-in-law, Dan Werner.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Becky L. Welter

Becky L. (Schoenauer) Welter 58 of Sherrill passed away on Thursday, April 5, 2018 at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Memorial Mass will be 10:00 am, Saturday, April 14, 2018 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 468 Balltown Rd. Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Friday, April 13, 2018 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 468 Balltown Rd. Local arrangements with Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Rd.

Becky was born November 11, 1959 the daughter of Robert and June (Hicks) Schoenauer. She married Eugene Welter on November 18, 1980 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Becky helped her husband start Welter Painting and was a farm wife for 22 years before working at Dubuque Senior High School for 13 years and the last 7 years at Irving Elementary where she loved being with her school kids. She loved music, taking pictures, dancing, fishing, hunting, traveling, and spending time in the kitchen. Becky mostly enjoyed helping others and spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband of 37 years, Eugene; children, Rob (Renee) Welter of Waverly, Holly (Steve Kamp) Welter of Farley, and Jason (Ashley Green) Welter of Cascade; 11 grandchildren, Connor, Nolan, Taylor, Bennett, Marshall, Carter, Reegan, Carley, Piper, Quinn, and Harrison; her mother in-law, Anna Mae Welter; siblings, Jackie (Jim) Gronau of Dubuque, Vickie (Bruce) Wagner of Dubuque, and Bobbie Lynch of Idaho; brother and sister in-laws, Darlene (William) Mauss of Dubuque, Vern (Rose) Welter of Sherrill, Tom Welter of Farmington, Minnesota, Barb (Steve) Schmitt of Coralville, and Joan (Lee) Hoerner of Epworth.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents and her father in-law, Ralph Welter.

Online condolences may be left for the family at Hoffmann-Schneider Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.

Timothy M. Horsfield

Timothy M. “Tim” Horsfield, 64, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on April 5th, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 9th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Reverend Dr. Lillian Daniels officiating. Burial will be at a later date in St. John’s Cemetery, Placid. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 8th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory.
Tim was born on February 26, 1954, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque the son of Walter M. and Cecelia E. (McDermott) Horsfield.

He attended St. Patrick’s Grade School and Western Dubuque High School both in Epworth, and the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, in Johnston.

He married Kevin S. Firnstahl on April 1, 2011 in Dubuque.

Tim was the City of Dubuque Parking System Supervisor from 2001-2017; he also was the Loras College Director of Campus Security from 1993-2001; City of Minneapolis, MN, Communications (911) Specialist 1991-1993; Hennepin County, MN Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Sheriff 1989-1991; St. Paul Ramsey Medical Center Director of Parking & Grounds Maintenance 1986-1989; FDL Foods, Inc., Corporate Director of Security 1983-1986; Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Sheriff 1975-1984.

Tim’s first love was law enforcement. His snarky sense of humor made us laugh and laugh at ourselves. He loved his dogs, camping in the RV, and rooting for any team playing against the Packers. Our gratitude goes to the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Epworth Fire Department, and the doctors and staff of the UIHC Holden Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Center for their valiant efforts.

Tim is survived by his husband Kevin S. Firnstahl, of Dubuque; his sister Janann (Ken) Krapfl, of Monticello; brother’s, Pat (Verla) Horsfield, of Epworth; Erwin “Red” (Joyce) Horsfield, of Epworth; Ronald (Judith) Horsfield, of Epworth; Dale (Jolene) Horsfield, of Ft. Meyers, FL; his sister-in-Law Elizabeth (Michael) McCann, of Vergas, MN; brother-in-Law David (Julie) Firnstahl, of Amery, WI; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Tim was precededin death by his parents; his sister Lois Kluesnser; two brothers in infancy Leo and Phillip Horsfield; his father-in-Law Ramon Firnstahl and mother-in-Law Marilyn Firnstahl; brothers-in-Law Donald Kluesner, Stephen Firnstahl, and Corey Firnstahl.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Holden Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, P.O. Box 4550, Iowa City, Iowa 52244.

Sharon A. Dunne

Sharon A. Dunne, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away on Thursday, April 5th, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 10th, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Garryowen with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, April 9th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

Sharon was born on July 9, 1950 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of James and Maxine (Henneberry) O’Connell and grew up on the family farm in rural Otter Creek. She attended rural school in Jackson county and graduated from Aquin Catholic High School in 1968.

She worked at Xavier Hospital from 1968 to 1969 as a nurse’s aide in the nursery. She then worked for Flexsteel Ind. for 37 years until retirement. After retirement she worked at Hy-Vee Grocery on Locust Street where she was awarded Employee of the year.
She was united in marriage to David P. Dunne on October 25th, 1969 in Garryowen, Iowa. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, member of the Catholic Daughters and also the Steelworkers Union.

Sharon enjoyed the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs; but she mostly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband David P. Dunne; two children, Shane (Kris) Dunne and Jodi (Dan Feller) Dunne. Her grandson Tyson Dunne and granddaughters Rylie Dunne and Emma Feller. Her siblings, Suzanne (Tom) Stecher, Mary Vince, David O’Connell, Loras (Shelly) O’Connell, Sara (Loras) Huilman, and Colleen Kafar.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her father-in-law Thomas Joseph Dunne Jr., and sister-in-law Karla O’Connell.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, and a special thank you to her sister Mary O’Connell for all the loving care they all gave.

Donald J. Rock

Donald J. “Rocky” Rock, 88, of Benton, Wisconsin, passed away Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at his daughter’s residence in Orange Beach, Alabama. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 9, 2018, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Rev. Bill Vasey officiating. Burial will be in Shawnee Cemetery in New Diggings. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Monday at the funeral home before the service.

Donald was born on January 8, 1930, in Darlington, Wisconsin, the son of Abner and Florence (Alderson) Rock. Donald was raised in New Diggings where he and his twin sister, Dolores, started school at the age of four. He later graduated from New Diggings High School in 1948. He was an outstanding basketball player in his day and was a member of the New Diggings Midgets Basketball Team that went undefeated three years in a row. Donald served in the United States Army Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion with an honorable discharge in 1952.

Donald was united in marriage to Carolyn Ethel Solem on July 6, 1957, at the Masonic Temple in Evanston, Illinois. He worked at Willowa Engineering Company in Galena, AY McDonald in Dubuque, and then worked at John Deere Tractor Works in Dubuque where he retired in 1987. Donald also helped on the Coulthard family farm for over 50 years.

Donald was a member of the Benton Fire Department, the Galena Elks Club, the Masonic Olive Branch Lodge #6 and a charter member of Cole Acres Country Club. He was the longtime coach of the Womens Benton Merchants Fast Pitch Softball Team, played on the Old Timers Mens Slow Pitch Softball Team and was a longtime member of Rocky’s Bar Bowling Team. Donald was also a member of the Old Timers Basketball Team where he was known for his hook shot and free throw shooting. He was a long time White Sox fan, a Detroit Lions fan and a lifetime fan and supporter of the University of Kentucky. On November 17, 2010, Donald was commissioned a KENTUCKY COLONEL by the governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Donald spent 32 years as a winter resident (snowbird) of Gulf Shores and later Orange Beach, Alabama, where he enjoyed the warmer winters and met many new friends.

Donald is survived by his daughter, Linda (Paul) Ponder, of Orange Beach, AL; grandchildren, Travis (Robyn) Ponder and Kinsey (PJ) McInerney; great-grandchildren, Lydia and Lucy McInerney and Dylan and Ethan Ponder; a twin sister, Dolores Hutchinson, of Platteville; a nephew, Joe (Julie) Thompson and a niece, Carolyn (Harold) Ensch, both of Shullsburg; and some dear cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn; his parents, Abner and Florence (Alderson) Rock, his father and mother-in-law, Lavern and Julia (Johnson) Solem; a sister, Betty (Rock) Thompson; and a nephew, Jerry Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Shawnee Cemetery Association, 2311 Shawnee Road, Shullsburg, WI 53586.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net.

Charles J. Wichmann

Charles J. “Chuck” Wichmann 86 of Dubuque passed away on Thursday, April 5, 2018 at University of Iowa Hospital Clinics with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at his side. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 am, Monday, April 9, 2018 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church conducted by Rev. Steven Rosonke. Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Sunday, April 8, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd with a 5:30 pm Scripture Service. Burial with Military Honors will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Charles was born on June 24, 1931 in Homestead, Iowa the son of John and Helen (Vogt) Wichmann. He served in the U.S. Army for 2 years during the Korean War. Charles married Marguerite Dusterhoft in 1954 and they celebrated 63 beautiful years of marriage. He attended Cedar Rapids Business College and after moving to Dubuque attended Loras College.

Charles worked for Goodyear Tire Company and Bridgestone Tire, retiring at 71. He was a member of St. Anthony’s Parish, Knights of Columbus, and was an usher at church for many years. Charles was a member of the American Legion, volunteered at the Dubuque Arboretum, member of Speak Easy Toastmasters where he won several trophies. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, loved golfing, bowling, boating, and wood working.

Survivors include his wife, Marguerite; children, Judy (Rick) David , Kathy Meyer, John (Sue) Wichmann, and Dennis (Colleen) Wichmann; 6 grandchildren, Chris David, Melissa (Tracey) Johnson, Derek (Cheri) Wichmann, Stephanie Wichmann, Crystal Chew, and Kaysha (Tyler) Schmidt; 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Bob and Larry (Kay Beth) Wichmann; and a sister-law, Mary Aliene (Dick) Sadler.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Chad Meyer; sister in-law, Wynona Wichmann; and his mother and father in-law, Louise and Clarence Dusterhoft.
Memorials may be directed to St. Anthony’s Parish or Dubuque Arboretum in Charles’s memory.

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

Nora R. Gierens

Nora R. Gierens, age 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 3:05 a.m., on Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Nora’s life, funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, on Monday, April 9, 2018, at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 1780 White Street, with Pastor Pamela Starr officiating. To celebrate Nora’s life, family and friends may visit from 11:00 a.m., until the time of services at 12:00 noon, on Monday, April 9, 2018, at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Nora was born on August 9, 1940, in Paris, Illinois, daughter of Archie and Carrie Elizabeth (Blodgett) Hickel.

Nora was born and raised in Paris, Illinois, before eventually moving to Dubuque and putting down roots of her own and raising her family. She was a very hard worker who put her natural talents and abilities to use first, as a waitress and housekeeper at the Chateau, and lastly with the housekeeping team at the Diamond Jo Casino; where she would invest over 20 years of her time until her well earned retirement had finally arrived. In her free-time, Nora enjoyed the simple pleasures in life; such as taking a leisurely walk on a beautiful day, or curling up comfortably on the sofa to watch one of her favorite tv programs. She also had a great love and affinity for angels and dolls and was continually on the lookout for another piece to add to her ever-growing collection. Nora’s faith was very important to her also as she was a devoted and long-time member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. Most of all though, she loved to spend quality time with her family and friends and any chance to congregate with them brought Nora great joy within the confines of her heart and mind. We are deeply saddened today at the loss of our dearly sweet mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, but gratefully discover some comfort in the fact that her loving memories will carry us through the sorrowful days ahead, and the knowledge that we will all eventually be reunited again, one day, in our eternal home in heaven.

Those left to cherish Nora’s memory include

her children,
Robert Bradley (Taci) Phillips, Chesapeake, VA,
Cindy Jo (Tim) Hansen, Plainfield, IL,
Marshall (Denise) Gierens, Elgin, IL
and Tammy (Chad) Olson, Stockton, IL;

10 grandchildren,
Eric (Sarah) Gierens, Vincent (Danielle) Gierens, Alek Hayes, Austyn Hayes, Andrew Hayes, Avery Hayes, Arianna Hayes, Madison Olson, Chelsea Olson and Walker Olson;

5 great-grandchildren,
Raelynn Gierens, Toby Gierens, Chance Gierens, Noah Gierens and Levi Gierens;

and her sisters,
Judy (Ronald) Smith, Paris, IL
and Emma (Steve) Franklin, Japan.

Nora was preceded in death by her parents; and 2 sisters, Rosalie Bennett and Patricia Copsy.

A Nora R. Gierens memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

Nora’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Finley Hospital for all of their kind and professional care of Nora and her family.

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

Everett M. Mattox

Everett M. Mattox, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, April 2, 2018, at his home in rural Maquoketa.

A celebration of Everett’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, April 10, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 9:30 A.M. Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Everett Monte Mattox was born on June 11, 1931 in Merna, Nebraska, to Everett Monte and Viola Pearl (Sells) Mattox Sr. He grew up in Broken Bow, Nebraska and served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict, earning an honorable discharge.

He married LoVanna Schoenherr in 1954 in Broken Bow, Nebraska. To this union two children were born, Julie and Victor. Lovanna preceded him in death in 1961. He later married Wilma Drake in 1964 in Broken Bow, Nebraska, and they divorced after 25 years of marriage. To this union one child was born, Shawn.

Everett was a farmer and had managed Wyoming Ready Mix for several years. He most notably was known for operating Mattox Auction Service from 1956 until 2012, and feeding people through his “Sand Prairie Farms” business for many years.

Everett was a member of the Jackson County Farm Bureau, the Jackson County Pork Producers Association, and in 2014, he was chosen to go on the Quad Cities Honor Flight. He was an accomplished carpenter, enjoyed coon hunting, and was a collector of crocks and coffee pots. He truly loved what he did and believed that work was his hobby. He thoroughly enjoyed feeding people through his produce business.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Julie (Don) Davis of Eldridge, IA, and Shawn (Chantelle) Mattox of Bozeman, MT; 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; a brother Steve Mattox of Callaway, NE; and sisters, Hazel Close of Boise, ID, and Judy (Ray) Lunkowitz of N. Platte, NE.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lovanna, a son Victor, brothers Jack, Cecil and Lyle Mattox, and sisters Mabel Ellingson and Ruby Plambeck.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Everett M. Mattox memorial fund has been established.

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

Ronald D. Drish

Ronald Dean Drish, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, April 7th, 2018 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Military Honors by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Ronald was born on July 6, 1936 in Davenport, Iowa the son of Marion and Audrey (Harvey) Drish. He married Janice Roddick on November 27, 1958, she preceded him in death on April 8, 2006. He served in the US Army in the 82nd Airborne.

Ronald farmed in the Zwingle area and later worked at Dubuque John Deere retiring in 1992. After retirement he worked for Norton News. He was a member of the American Legion Post #6 and was an active member Dubuque Eagles Club where he served as past president.

He enjoyed sports and golf, and in his earlier years he played baseball, and coached his five boys in independent league ball. He was a founding member of “The dirty dozen golf League” and will be remembered for his Karaoke singing.

He is survived by his five sons, Dennis (Esther) Drish, of Texas, David (Barb) Drish, of Mississippi, Danny (Carolyn) Drish, of Anamosa, Duane Drish, and Douglas Drish both of Dubuque; 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren; a brother Fred (Ann) Drish and a sister Punky (Bowdy) Stecklein.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janice and a sister Darlene.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ronald Schoppe and the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital especially Diane for all the care they gave to Dad.

Violet Mae Mescher

Violet “Vi” Mae Mescher, age 95, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 3, 2018, at Bethany Home, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Violet’s life, funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Friday, April 6, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street, with her son, Rev. Michael Mescher, and Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating. To celebrate Violet’s life, family and friends may visit from 11:30 a.m., until 12:30 p.m., on Friday, April 6, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery, New Vienna, Iowa.

Violet was born on February 23, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois, daughter of Joseph and Mabel (Rentzsch) Holl.

Vi was fortunate to have spent the majority of her earthly journey right here in the Dubuque area. After completing her education, Vi eventually met the love of her life, Allen Mescher, heading north on a train in Texas during WWII, and the pre-destined loving couple were finally united in marriage on November 13, 1948, in Dubuque. They were blessed with 69 wonderful years together, as well as 4 truly adored children, before Allen was sadly called home ahead of her on November 29, 2017. Vi was the proud owner of Vi’s Nutrition Store for over 22 years and found great joy in promoting healthy living through many family, friends and clients over her career. Vi was also steadfast in her devotion to her faith, Lord and Savior and not only prayed daily, but also a long-time member of her beloved St. Anthony’s Church and the Catholic Mother’s Study Club. But, let it be known that when Vi wasn’t working at the store, writing her latest “Quotable Quotes” Column for the T.H., or spending her time with church activities, she was continually discovering her true purpose in this life; loving her family. Vi’s commitment to those she cared for was never going to be doubted by anyone who truly knew and loved her. Some of her favorite family times involved the many cherished camping adventures the family would endeavor upon throughout the years. Every trip was a new experience for all involved and the memories which still remain will continue to provide comfort for those whose hearts are aching today. We search for heavenly peace within our pain of loss today, but we accept that our beautiful Vi’s time with us, here upon this earth, was to cease when God would inevitably decide to call her home. We are grateful that our loving soul-mates, Vi and Allen, did not have to endure too much time separated from one another and that now their eternal union in the perfection of true agape love awaits. We sadly shed tears as our hearts and minds begin the necessary healing process for those of us left behind, but in time we will surely accept the truth, and find the comfort, in the fact that Vi is resting comfortably from her labors, safely in her Heavenly Father’s arms, and only awaits patiently for our eventual arrival to one of the most glorious of family reunions one day.

Those left to cherish Violet’s memory include

her 4 loving children,
Rev. Michael Mescher, Tama, IA,
Dr. Scott (Claudia) Mescher, Hibbing, MN,
Sally (David) Mescher Allen, Littleton, CO
and Alice (Fred) Altmix, Nashville, TN;

her 7 grandchildren,
Meredith (Colin) McCowan, Emily (Nathan) Wirkkula, Craig (Sara) Mescher, MD, John Allen, Tatyana Allen, Caitlyn (Andrew) Boza and Evan Altmix;

her great-granddaughter,
Cora Boza;

her brother,
Joseph (Connie) Hall, Jr., Sun City Center, FL;

her sisters-in-law,
Rose Johanningmeier, Dubuque, IA,
and Marion Mescher, Melbourne, Australia;

her brothers-in-law,
Eddie Maiers, Dubuque, IA
and Bill Pauling, Escandido, CA.

and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Violet was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Alice Pauling; and her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Alma (James) Healy, Laura Maiers, Arlene (Dick) Southwell, Herbert (Irene) Mescher, Vincent (Lucille) Mescher, Edwin (Anna Jane) Mescher, Raymond (Fran) Mescher, Robert (Peggy) Mescher, Elmer Mescher and Donald (Betty) Mescher and Elmer “Moe” Johanningmeier.

A Violet Mae Mescher memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed to her favorite charity.

Vi’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Bethany Home for all of the kind, caring and professional care they have provided to Vi, and her entire family throughout the years.

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

Donald Allen Freese

Donald Allen Freese, 50, of Dubuque passed away Saturday, March 31, 2018 in an auto accident in Wisconsin.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 7, 2018 at Hoffmann-Schneider Funeral Home, 1640 Main Street where friends may call from 10 a.m. to1 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque.

Donald was born April 9, 1967 in Dubuque, son of Allen B. and Janice J. (Clough) Freese.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1985. After high school he worked alongside his parents at their family business, Nu-Way Cleaners, and more recently as a union carpenter.

Don was a free spirit person who loved being with his family and friends and making the party last. He had a way about him that you would be immediately drawn to him. That contagious grin and his ways with words he could charm his way out of most things. He was kind-hearted, generous, easy to talk to, and a loyal friend. He was an avid Viking and Chicago Cub fan and enjoyed setting off fireworks whenever and where ever he could.

Surviving are three children Nicole (Shane) Clemens, Kamber Freese, and Dawson Freese, all of Dubuque; a grandson, Prestyn; two granddaughters, Serenity and Temperance; his mother Janice Freese, of Bellevue, IA; three brothers, Tom Freese, of Las Vegas, NV, Jim Freese, of Dubuque and Bob (Patty) Freese, of Marion, IA; a sister, Julie (Craig) Weiner, of Dubuque; an aunt, LaVonne “Bonnie” Thurston, of California; an uncle, Duane (Donna) Clough, of Dubuque; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Allen Freese, and his aunt Sharon (David) Jaeger.

In lieu of flowers, a Don Freese Memorial has been established.

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

Gale D. Hixenbaugh

Gale D. Hixenbaugh, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

Memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 6, 2018 from 9:30 – 11:30 am at Hoffman Schneider Funeral Home & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Services located at 3860 Asbury Rd. Military honors will be conducted by the Dubuque Marine Corps League at 11:30 am.

Gale was born on April 28, 1930 in Centerville, Iowa, the son of Henry Clyde and Jessie (Steele) Hixenbaugh. He graduated from Centerville High School in 1948. Gale married Susan Bruckshaw, his wife of over 40 years, in 1951, and served in the US Army from 1951 – 1953 during the Korean War.

After receiving a degree from Iowa State University in Aeronautical Engineering, Gale worked for Convair in San Diego, CA before moving to St. Louis, MO, where he worked for McDonnell Douglas until he retired in 1995.

Gale moved to Dubuque, Iowa, shortly after retiring to be closer to his family. Most of his days were spent with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed attending the Dubuque Symphony, listening to classical music, and challenging his mind with both crossword and jigsaw puzzles.

Survivors include his children, Lisa (Brad) Brissey of Dubuque, Iowa, and John Eric (Susan) Hixenbaugh of Bettendorf, Iowa and three grandchildren, Ashlyn, Amanda and Ariella.

Gale was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings (Leon, Harold and Joe Hixenbaugh, Ruth Clark, Eloise Dobbs, and Clydene “Peg” Hindley, and Susan Bruckshaw (Hixenbaugh, Aldrich).

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

Evelyn L. Arensdorf

Evelyn L. Arensdorf, 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, April 3, 2018, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, April 6, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 9:30 A.M. Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Evelyn Leona Kinyon was born on June 1, 1940 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Vernon and Mabel (Clark) Kinyon. She was a graduate of Maquoketa High School. She married James Sylvester Arensdorf on August 31, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union three children were born, Renee, Dawn and James.

Evelyn first worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for a short time, then Maquoketa Care Center, and lastly as a childcare provider at Sunshine Daycare in Maquoketa for over 20 years.

Evelyn enjoyed flowers, Sunday drives, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and playing “Words With Friends” on the computer with family.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband James Arensdorf of Maquoketa, IA; children, Renee (Gordon) Waite of Chandler, AZ, Dawn (Tom) Christiansen of Copperas Cove, TX, and James (Suzanne) Arensdorf of Cypress, TX; 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a grandson Derek Arensdorf, and a brother Lloyd Kinyon.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Evelyn L. Arensdorf memorial fund has been established.

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