Obituaries Archive

Harry L. Ketelsen

Harry L. Ketelsen, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa, at the age of 87.

Harry Lee Ketelsen was born on December 26, 1937 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Ingwer and Lessie Alvina (Wiese) Ketelsen.  Harry’s early years in Iowa laid a strong foundation for a life characterized by hard work and commitment. He answered the call of duty and served in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1955 to 1958. His time in the military earned him an honorable discharge.

Upon returning to civilian life, Harry’s heart led him to Connie Lange, and the two were united in marriage on August 2, 1978, in Monmouth, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising a family.

Harry’s professional life was as a dedicated semi-driver, a career that spanned over six decades. He worked for Hoffman Eggs, Smith Transfer, and Consolidated Freight Ways, where his reliability and strong work ethic were well-known and respected.

Beyond his work and family commitments, Harry had a passion for the outdoors. He found joy in fishing, boating, camping, and 4-wheeling. His love for adventure also led him to migrate south for the winters, embracing the warmth and the change of scenery. However, it was the time spent with his family, especially his kids and grandchildren, that brought him the greatest happiness.

Harry was a devoted husband to Connie Ketelsen of Baldwin, Iowa, and a loving father to his children, Cynthia Ketelsen-Kusk of Tyrone, NM, Harry James Ketelsen of DeWitt, IA, Rebecca (Robert) Sonstegard of Maquoketa, IA, John (Melissa) Ketelsen of Las Vegas, NV, Tina (fiancé Dave Hardison) Bennett of Maquoketa, IA, Trevor (Katie) Ketelsen of Davenport, IA, and Dawn (Joe) Crist of Maquoketa, IA. His legacy also includes 23 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories.  Harry also leaves behind a sister, Cheri (James) Cobb of Tyrone, NM. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ingwer and Lessie Alvina (Wiese) Ketelsen; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Evelyn and Ervin Lange; his brother and sister-in-law, Harlan and Roni Ketelsen; sisters, Shirley Truhlar and Evelyn Gillette; and his grandson, Michael Beilenberg.

A private family gathering will be held.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  No public services are planned at this time.

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

Sr. Mary Jeanne Stopper, BVM

Mary Ann Barton

Mary Ann “Annie” Barton, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Westbrook Acres Nursing Home in Gladbrook, IA, after courageously living with Alzheimer’s disease. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, Iowa. A prayer service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Mary Ann was born on July 23, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, the beloved daughter of Clarence and Helen (Mueller) Barton. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church.

As a dedicated caregiver, Mary Ann began her career at Xavier Hospital, working in the maternity ward and as an EEG technician. Following the hospital’s merger with Mercy Hospital, she continued her service as a CNA in the Cardiac Medical Unit until her retirement. Her compassion and selflessness were hallmarks of her life, especially evident when she adopted and raised her 15 month old niece as her own after the untimely passing of her sister, Helen Kay.

Mary Ann found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending to her rose bushes, knitting, cross-stitching, and baking. Her home was always stocked with Pepsi, Lay’s potato chips, ice cream, and chocolate, always ready for her to enjoy while watching a murder mystery or Hallmark movie. Mary Ann was a true lover of music, and she had a remarkable voice that she shared at weddings and funerals, often reminding her family that no one could sing Ave Maria quite like she could. Above all, her greatest joy was her family.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Helen Barton; her brother, John F. Barton; and her sister, Helen Kay (Barton) Frohs.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Beth Weiland (fiancé Darren Swanson) of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Matty Weiland of Dubuque, Kayley Weiland (fiancé Jonah Crilly) of Waukee, IA, and Aaron Lehman of Dubuque.

Susan Kay Schmitz

Susan Kay  “Sue” (Lieb, Osterhaus) Schmitz, age 73 of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14th. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Sunday February 2nd from 1pm-4pm at Denny’s Lux Club, 3050 Asbury Rd.

Sue was born in Dubuque on December 12th 1951, the daughter of David and Gloria Lieb.  She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

Sue enjoyed cooking meals for her family. She was an accomplished seamstress and quilter and made many gifts for her family and friends through the years. Sue greatly enjoyed music and had a great love for gardening her plants, flowers and watching birds.

She was married to Gene Osterhaus September 12th, 1970. They had two children together, Nicholas and Jenny.

Sue was married to John F. Schmitz in Hazel Green WI on December 20th, 1987. John and Sue had two children together Jon Michael and Bre-Annah Elizabeth.

Sue is survived by her husband John F. Schmitz, children, Nicholas Osterhaus, Jenny Osterhaus Naderman, Jon (Carlie) Schmitz, Bre-Annah (Tony) Shiltz and two step children, Laura (Ron) Timm and Shelly (Ted) O’Malley, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren

She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, Joe (Lynn) Lieb, Mike (Janet) Lieb, Guy (G.G) Lieb, Troy (Gina) Lieb, Tracy (Jon) Ruosch; a sister in law, Sandy Lieb and many  nieces and nephews.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Cheryl Lieb and Cynthia (Lieb) Trine, her brother David Lieb; son in law, Steve Naderman and former husband Gene.

Catherine R. Wilhelm

Catherine R. Wilhelm, 96, of Dyersville, IA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica Catholic Church in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Catherine was born on June 15, 1928, to Michael (Fred) and Anne Arganbright in Guthrie Center, IA. She was one of 11 children, though one sibling passed away in infancy. Raised on a farm east of Guthrie Center, Catherine developed a strong work ethic and an enduring faith. She attended a country school during her early years and later graduated from Panora High School at the age of 16. Following her graduation, she taught at the country school for a couple of years before continuing her education at the University of Iowa, where she shared a room with her cousin.

During her second year at the university, she met Bob Wilhelm. The couple enjoyed attending Iowa Hawkeye games together. After a while, they parted ways and she took a teaching job in Ripley, IA. At the close of her first year of teaching, she returned to the University of Iowa to visit her cousin, where she and Bob rekindled their romance. They married on November 22, 1951, in Guthrie Center, IA.

After Bob’s graduation from pharmacy school in 1952, he took a job in Mount Pleasant, IA, before settling in his hometown of Dyersville in 1958. There, Bob worked as a pharmacist at the Corner Drug Store, eventually becoming its owner. Together, they raised 11 children, building a home filled with love, faith, and family.

Catherine dedicated herself as a stay-at-home mother, creating a warm and welcoming environment for her children and their friends. She had an incredible ability to balance the demands of a large family with grace and patience. Her home was always filled with the aroma of fresh cookies or donuts after school and hearty, home-cooked meals in the evening. She cherished time with family and friends, always opening her heart and home to others. Catherine’s deep faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she prayed the rosary regularly at home, always lifting up prayers for the welfare of her family and friends.

As her children grew older, Catherine enjoyed working alongside Bob at the Corner Drug Store, contributing to their family business. She and Bob were deeply committed to their community, believing in the importance of giving back. They worked tirelessly to support their parish, hospital, schools and the restoration of the historical Dyer-Botsford House. Their faith was central to their lives; they spent countless hours in Adoration, leading the rosary, guiding tours of the Basilica, and serving as lectors during Mass. They were also active and strong believers in the Right to Life campaign. Catherine also found joy in singing with the Resurrection Choir.

Bob and Catherine shared a remarkable 71 years of marriage before his passing in December 2022. Together, they formed lifelong friendships, raised an incredible family, and left a legacy of love, service, and faith.

Catherine is survived by her children: Pat (Lee) Kruse of Lancaster, PA; Mary (Mark) Gaul of Worthington, IA; Dan Wilhelm of Dyersville; Deb (Boyd) Campbell of Rudd, IA; Linda (Wayne) Overman of Murfreesboro, TN; Tess (Brian) Jones of Greer, SC; Joe (Angie) Wilhelm of Castle Rock, CO; Janet (Dave) Sisk of Brownsboro, AL; Mike (Kathy Henry) Wilhelm of Centennial, CO; Connie Wilhelm (Kurt Rosenthal) of Springville, IA; and Sue (Matt) Kramer of Greer, SC. She is also survived by her youngest brother, Mike (Mary) Arganbright of Linden, IA; her sister-in-law, Diane Arganbright of Panora, IA, brother-in-laws: Paul (Rita) Wilhelm, Dave Wilhelm, and Merle (Sharon) Wilhelm; 36 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her parents, Fred and Anne Arganbright, siblings: Donald, Tom, infant brother William, John, Vince, Jim and Richard Arganbright, Elizabeth Petersen and Mary Moylan, and one great-grandson, Dane Zeigler, in infancy.

Catherine was a loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend. She loved to spend time outside in her gardens or on the front porch, savoring a cup of coffee and a cinnamon roll, if you were lucky, with whoever happened to be visiting. She spent many hours out there with Bob, taking in nature’s wonders. She also loved to rock her grandbabies, softly singing Bye-o-bye. Her unwavering faith, selfless spirit, and boundless love touched everyone who knew her. She never lost her keen wit, even up to the end.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com

Rosemary T. Capriola

Rosemary T. “Rose” Capriola, age 88, of Dubuque, IA, left us suddenly in the arms of her angels on January 14, 2025.  To honor Rosemary’s life, family and friends may gather in food and fellowship for her Celebration of Life from 1:00–4:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Rockford Verdi Club, 782 North Madison Street in Rockford, IL.  A Prayer Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. with Keith Seaberg officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rosemary’s family.

Rosemary was born on May 6, 1936, in Rockford, IL, a daughter to Joseph and Lillian (Oddo) Capriola.  She was a kind and sweet soul through and through and the gentlest woman you could ever hope to meet.  Thankfully, Rosemary also possessed a strong will and spirit of determination which she carried faithfully throughout her entire life.  Burying three infant sons would be enough to leave permanent scars on the heart of any mother, but Rosemary used these trials and tribulations as a cause to focus even more intently on the loved one’s the Lord was gracious enough to gift her with.  She loved her family deeply and dearly.  Rosemary had decided early on that family was her greatest joy and they were going to be her life until the end was to arrive.  Any opportunity to have them by her side, under her immense and ever-loving wings, or even on the phone with her sincere ear pressed firmly against it; Rosemary’s heart was always content when she was playing her role as matriarch perfectly.

She did find some time to share her talents with her friends at the Roma Bakery, and never missed a chance to perform a little retail therapy with Marcy, but again, Rosemary’s heart and mind were continually watching the clock and simply waiting for the time to arrive when she was back in the presence of her beloved family.  It’s beyond imagination to even attempt to begin navigating this new and heartbreaking reality we must face without her love and light shining so brightly in all of the lives around her.  The world will never be the same and appears so much smaller today sadly.  We will love and miss our dear Rosemary with all of our hearts and can only hope to find peace and healing in time.  Thank you, Rosemary, for role-modeling so intently the true gift of love, for leading by example without hesitation, and for never allowing the pain that this world sometimes brings into our lives to ever gain a foothold within your devotion to others.  We pray that the Lord has brought you into your eternal state with such love and grace that even our pain would be eased in the knowledge of the peace you feel today.  God bless and God speed sweet Rosemary and may the legacy of love you leave behind remind us all that this is only a temporary journey for each and every one of us until we must never be apart again forever more.

Those left to cherish the memory of Rosemary include,

her three adored daughters,
Rose (E.J.) Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Nina (Joe) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Carla DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her six grandchildren,
Davey Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Jilly) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jeff (Jackie) Ames, Rockford, IL,
Joey (Angie) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jimmy (Sarah) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Jory DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her fourteen great-grandchildren,
Zoe (Alex), Carmen (Joey), Hannah (Zach), Zane (Sydney), Isabella, Paige, Max, Lex, Lilly, Evie, Mariah, Camden, Scarlett, and Tatum;

her four great-great-grandchildren,
Sawyer, Noah, Joey, and Delilah;

her brother,
Joseph (JoEllen) Capriola, Jr., Rockford, IL;

other loved ones,
Dave Ames,
Mark DalSanto,
and Lori Wineland;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents; the love of her life for 33 years, Bob Shipp; her brother, Anthony (JoAnn) Capriola; her special sister-in-law, Marcy Capriola; her three infant sons, Joseph, Gary, and Carl;  her granddaughter, Toni Ames; and her great-granddaughter, Olivia Graciana.

Rosemary’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dubuque Fire and EMS Departments, the Dubuque Police Department, and the Dubuque County Medical Examiner’s Office for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.

Online condolences may be shared with Rosemary’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Sandra J. Meyer

Sandra Jean Meyer, 83, of Fairfax, passed away from complications of dementia on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha. Funeral Mass: 10 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. Jude Catholic Church by Rev. Nick March. Burial: St. John Cemetery, Centralia .  A vigil service will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday at Teahen Funeral Home.  Those not wishing to attend vigil service, may visit with the family on Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home and after 9 a.m. on Friday at the church.

Sandra is survived by her husband Herman; five children, Colleen (Tom) Reding of Mt. Vernon, Kenneth Meyer of Dubuque, Greg (Tracy) Meyer of Asbury, Michelle (Mike) Ives of Cedar Rapids and Tony Meyer of Murrieta, CA; 20 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren with two more on the way; four siblings, Barbara Terrell, Cathy (Steve) Krieg, Tom (Theresa) Hooks and Janet Schultz; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Rita Hubbard, Cletus Meyer, Trudy Kurt, Kathy (Doug) Schlickman, Wayne Zumhof, Diane Hooks and Jean Meyer.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill (Jacque) Hooks, John Hooks, Nancy (David) Sparks, Diana Hooks, Linda Hooks, Rick Schultz, George Terrell, Ann Meyer, Willie Meyer, Mary Agatha Zumhof, Jerry Hubbard, Donnie (Eileen) Meyer, and Leon Kurt.

Sandra was born on January 11, 1942 in Kieler, WI the daughter of Gordon and Margaret Ginter Hooks.  She graduated with honors from Immaculate Conception High School, Dubuque class of 1959. On November 11, 1961 Sandra married Herman Meyer at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque. She was a homemaker for many years and was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church.

Sandra enjoyed crocheting, baking, cooking, travelling by car and flower gardening.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Sandra’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy for all of the compassionate care that was shown to Sandra and her family.

Memorials may be directed to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

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

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich, 89 a priest of the Archdiocese of Dubuque passed away on Friday January 10, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday February 8, 2025, at 10:30 at Saint Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo, Iowa. There will be visitation from 4 to 6 on Friday February 7, and from 9 am until time of mass on Saturday February 8 at Saint Edwards Church in Waterloo, Iowa. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque is in charge of the arrangements.

Rosemary F. Stoffel

Rosemary “Rosie” F. Stoffel, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 11, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Private family services will be held. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Rosie was born on July 9, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Frederick and Margaret Gronau. She was united in marriage to Irvin R. Stoffel on October 4, 1952, at St. Philomena’s in Asbury. For over 30 years, Rosie was employed as a supervisor at ARA Food Service located at John Deere.

Rosie was a caring and patient person. Her heart of gold and willingness to help anyone define the woman she was. She never raised her voice, and without a mean bone in her body she was a wonderful mother and an even better wife to Irvin. Rosie liked to fish, play bingo, and join in a competitive game of euchre.

Rosie is survived by her children Dennis (Laurie) of Lehigh Acres, FL, Mark (Robin) of Peosta, Tina Sweetland of Davenport, Celeste Fischer of Key West, Andrew (Karen) of Balltown, and Tim of Lehigh Acres, FL, 18 grandchilren, many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, sister Esther (Dick) Farnum of Dubuque, and two sisters-in-law Pat Parr and Marge Dyga.

She was preceded in death by her husband Irvin in 2012, two sons Leonard (2009) and John in infancy, grandson Christopher Stoffel, two sons-in-law Dan Sweetland and John Fischer, her parents Fred and Margaret, brother Walter Gronau, sister Virginia Pust, mother and father-in-law, and many siblings-in-law.

Rosie had 91 years full of wisdom, good health, and enough love to go around.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque – especially Shay-, and Leonard Funeral Home for all their loving care of Rosemary.

Rodney G. Miller

Rodney G. Miller, 78, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025 following a long illness.  Private Family Services will be conducted.  Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Rodney was born August 1, 1946, the son of Rodney Onie and Louise Miller.  He served his country in the US Army 1966-1968 during the Vietnam War.  Rodney enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs and spending time with his family.  He married Sherry Etting on July 9, 1995 in Iowa City.  They moved to Bellevue following Rodney’s and Sherry’s retirement.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry; a son, Scott (Christy) Miller; stepson’s, Jason (Makaela O’Donnell) Yeager and Casey (Johannah) Yeager; and 9 grandchildren.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lisa and a step-brother, Jack.

Condolences and Cards may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Rodney Miller Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Sharon F. Adams

Sharon F. “Red” Adams, age 62, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 11, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family and her twin-sister, Karen.  To honor Sharon’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sharon’s family.

Sharon was born on December 30, 1962, in Vincennes, Indiana, a daughter to Clarence W. and Elizabeth J. (Rubrecht) Adams.  She spent many years in the Florida Keys where she enjoyed a sunny afternoon on the beach almost as much as she treasured spending time with her friends.  She eventually made her way to the Dubuque area to begin the next chapter in her life and made many new friends along the way.  Most folks will remember Red as the ever friendly waitress at the Point Restaurant on Rhomberg and the Sunshine Family Restaurant of JFK where she faithfully devoted her time and talents and always loved to visit with her customers.  Most recently she worked at Nordstroms before her health issues sadly arose suddenly.  It’s difficult to imagine a world without Red’s smile and spirit walking among us and we can only hope to find some moments of peace in time and pray for healing in our broken hearts as well.  Thank you, Sharon, for living life as you saw fit and always making sure that those you loved and adored always knew it to be so.  May the Lord provide you rest now from your earthly battles as we wait patiently to see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Sharon include,

her two daughters,
Sarah Elizabeth Adams, Marathon, FL,
and Michelle Victoria Adams, Dubuque, IA;

her three adored grandchildren,
Anthony Patrick Latorre, Alliyah Beth Matie-Adams ,  and Jason Vaughn Morton;

her siblings,
Jackie (Roy) Howell,
Marianne Burkhalter,
Karla Adams,
Tamera Ferguson,
Karen (Glen) Clark,
Bruce Adams,
Patrick Adams,
Angela Adams,
Timothy Adams,
and John (Debbie) Adams;

her sister-in-law,
Cheryl Adams;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Sharon was preceded in death by her siblings, Lee Adams, Brenda (George) Bradley and  Keith Bradley; Paul (Janet) Adams and Paul, Jr.; her brother-in-law, Dale Burkhalter; and her sister-in-law, Ruby Adams.

Sharon’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

“You can call me Red, as she strolls on through.  A wide tooth grin, big Red hair moving in the wind.  She don’t tip-toe, Red takes up space with a loud laugh and wit to taste!”

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

Phyllis Webster

Phyllis Webster, 76, passed away peacefully Sunday January 12, 2025 at Rock Haven Nursing Home in Janesville, WI after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday January 17, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Phyllis was born June 9, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Evelyn (Rave) and Joe Boyer, Phyllis grew up with three sisters, nicknamed the “Boyer Boys,” and many cousins. She graduated from St. Columbkille’s Catholic High School and began her career at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque. On St. Patrick’s Day 1974, she met the love of her life, Don Webster, and they married on October 19, 1974, before moving to Janesville. Phyllis worked at Mercyhealth System in Janesville for 45 years, retiring in December 2021. She and Don shared 37 years of marriage until his passing in 2011.

A devoted wife and loving mother, Phyllis was cherished for her sense of humor and generous spirit. She enjoyed time with friends, cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes, attending NASCAR races with Don, and hand-embroidering baby quilt tops. Her greatest joy came in 2015 with the birth of her grandson, Charlie.

She is survived by her daughters, Kristine (Roger) Haecker of Reedsburg and Amy (Adam) Gibbs, her grandson, Charlie, Janesville; her 3 sisters, Mary (Bill) Barton, Carol (Larry) Kelchen, Deborah Boyer; her sisters in law, Karen (John) Ray, Gail (Bob) Champion, Kathy (Bill) McCauley, Maria (Ted) Heim, and brother in law, Gary Webster, as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, cousins, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Webster, her parents, Evelyn & Joseph Boyer, her sister, Sharon Boyer, her parents in law Mary Ellen & Austin Webster, and brother in law, Bill Webster.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rock County Cancer Coalition of Janesville, WI.

Her daughters would like to thank the staff at Mercyhealth System and Rock Haven Nursing Home, both in Janesville, for the wonderful care they provided to Phyllis in her final months.

Sandra Bahl

Sandra “Sandy” Bahl, 76, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory, where there will be prayer service at 6:30 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sandy will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Greg Bahl as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sandy was born on April 16, 1948, in Dubuque, the daughter of Leonard and Geraldine (Frith) Miller. On November 16, 1968, she married Steven Bahl in Dubuque.

Sandy worked as a waitress, and for Barnstead/Thermolyne for 20 years. She later worked part time at Dollar Tree for fun.

Sandy was a longtime member of the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. She truly loved being around other people, with this passion she belonged to many clubs such as, quilting club, card clubs, and bunco club. As a lover of animals, she was attentive to all of her family’s pets. Sandy also loved music and cooking for holiday gatherings. Christmas was her favorite holiday as she was a selfless giver of gifts, love, and all things.

Survivors include her loving husband of over 56 years, Steve; three children, Brian (Rhonda) Bahl of Whitewater, CO; Teri (Kartik) Athreya of Jersey City, NJ; and Father Greg Bahl of Cedar Rapids, IA; three grandchildren, Uma, Suryan, and Skanda; two brothers-in-law, Mark (Michelle) Bahl of Marion, IA and Mike (Julie) Bahl of Epworth, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; one sister, Judy Ellerie, her closest friend throughout her lifetime.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Church of the Resurrection or Salvation Army.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and her Resurrection Church family.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Sandy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Michael L. Geuder

Michael Lee Geuder 70, of Guttenberg, IA, passed away Thursday, January 9th, 2025, at the Guttenberg Care Center.  Born on February 4, 1954 in Rock Island, IL to Donald and Mary Jean Geuder, Mike lived a life rich with love and dedication to his family.

Mike was known for his unwavering commitment to those he loved. He shared a beautiful life with the woman he loved by his side, his wife Lori. Together they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and love. As a devoted father to Todd Koeller and daughters Holly Brown and Jessica Bittner – and later welcoming son Mike Wallen – he took immense pride in nurturing their dreams while instilling values of kindness and hard work. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, he enjoyed each and every one of them.

He was a skilled commercial union painter for most of his career who also owned body shops and the Black Beauty Sealcoating business, showcasing both talent and entrepreneurial spirit; Mike’s work ethic was matched only by the joy he found in helping others. Later in life, he transitioned into security at the Miss Marquette, where he continued to touch lives with his gentle demeanor.

Beyond work commitments lay Mike’s passions – his appreciation for cars brought him endless joy as did evenings spent playing billiards or yard darts with friends and family. A lover of games, like Aggravation, provided moments of friendly competition that created lasting memories among friends and family members gathered around the table.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude towards the staff at Guttenberg Care Center and St. Croix Hospice for their exceptional care during Mike’s final days; your compassion made an immeasurable difference.

Services honoring Mike will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home located in Guttenberg from 9 am -12 pm. Inurnment will follow at Guttenberg City Cemetery. Rev. Mike Ashman will officiate. There will be a lunch at the Guttenberg Golf Course – a fitting tribute celebrating not just loss, but also love shared throughout years gone by.

As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, whose presence enriched our lives so profoundly, we carry forward lessons learned from him about generosity toward others – the importance of cherishing every moment – and above all else, be creative and make it special! The family will continue to share the colorful & unique memories Mike instilled in them.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Lori (Koeller); children: Todd Koeller, Holly (Nick) Brown, Jessica (Dan) Bittner, Mike (Traci) Wallen; grandchildren: Caleb, Cole, Alyvia, Austen, Seth, Destani, Ruthann, Hali, Brody, Chloe; and many brother and sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Jean Geuder; parents-in-law, Leo and Hazel Koeller; brother, Tom; brothers-in-law: Duane, Carson, Joe, and Charlie; sisters-in-law: Sandy, Pat and Barb.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and information is available at www.morrisfuneralhomes.com. Memorials may be sent to Morris Funeral Home (in care of the deceased) 207 South 1st St, Guttenberg, IA 52052.

Marianne Barton

Marianne Barton, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Sunday morning, January 5th, 2025. No services will be held at this time.

Marianne was born July 21, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois to Frederick and Beulah Trautman. Marianne graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and Occupational Therapy in 1952 from Colorado State University. She went on to pursue a career and passion for occupational therapy. She worked in Dubuque at Sunnycrest Manor, where everyone felt like a family.

On November 30, 1962, Marianne married Howard Barton in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They embarked on many trips around the world and had a passion for experiencing new things and creating memories for their family. Marianne loved spending time with her family and had a love for all things drawing and coloring. Marianne could often be found with a colored pencil in her hand and always loved making new drawings for friends and family.

Marianne can now rest peacefully with her loving husband Howard. She is survived by her daughter Christine Barton Jensen of Dubuque and son Vance Barton; 7 grandchildren, James (Melissa) Lehnen of Arkansas, Aaron Lehnen of East Dubuque, IL, Alyssa Lehnen of Iowa City, IA, Anders Jensen of Dubuque, IA, Portia Barton, Veda Barton, and Ezra Barton; 4 great grandchildren, Blake, Benson, Maxwell, and Baxter; her siblings Lynn and Jim of Colorado.

The family extends special thanks to Bethany Home of Dubuque and Mercy Hospital for taking such great care of Marianne.