Obituaries Archive

Merwyn R. Ellis

Merwyn R. “Skinny” Ellis 93 of Dubuque, passed away Monday, April 30, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the Cathedral of St. Raphael with Rev. Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Entombment will be in Resurrection Garden Mausoleum, Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 4, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 J.F. Kennedy Rd. where a parish scripture wake service will be recited at 7:00 p.m.

Skinny was born on July 8, 1924 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Glenn V. and Cecelia M. (Pauly) Ellis. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1942. On June 18, 1946, Skinny married Bette J. Paisley at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on September 14, 2006.

He was a Boy Scout leader for over 40 years and proud that he had over 80 Eagle scouts in that time period. He received two scouting awards for service, the Silver Beaver and the St. George Awards.

Skinny started his appliance service career as service manager at Montgomery Ward in the 50’s and later started Ellis Appliance in 1972. He was known to be able to repair anything.

He was a Master Gardener and did volunteer work for the Iowa State extension office. He was a lifetime 4th degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council 510 and a member of the local musician union. Skinny played saxophone with dance bands in Dubuque with many dances at the Melody Mill. He enjoyed his monthly lunches with his class of “42”.

Surviving are his children, Robert (Judy) Ellis, William (Mary) Ellis, Judith (Dennis) Bemboom and Peggy (Gary) McGraw all of Dubuque, Sue (Ron) Bergfeld of Clive, IA, Cathie (Dale) Bemboom of N. Buena Vista, IA and Tom (Christy) Ellis of Dubuque. 15 Grandchildren, Scott, Chad, David, Amy, Stacy, Josh, and Arron Ellis, Mara McGrath, Steve and James Bemboom, Julie Russell, Dr. Jennifer Mohr, Jeremy McGraw, Cindy Winston and Lisa Vento; 25 great grandchildren and one on the way; his brother, Keith Ellis of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Bette, a grandson Alan Bergfeld and a brother, Robert V. Ellis.

A Merwyn R. Ellis memorial fund has been established.

The Ellis family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center for their constant care and support.

Delbert J. Sendt

Delbert J. “Del” Sendt, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully on Sunday April 29, 2018 at Manor Care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday May 4, 2018 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 3, 2018 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m.

Delbert was born in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Albert and Mary (Jackoniski) Sendt. He married Kay Mitchley on June 23, 1962. She preceded him in death on April 6, 2015. He worked for Celotex Corporation for 15 years. He then finished his career as a tour bus driver with Iowa Coaches and Tri-State Tours until his retirement.

He was involved in the East Dubuque Cub Scout Program, the East Dubuque Little League program, was a past member of the East Dubuque Warrior Booster Club and a proud member of the East Dubuque Fire Department where he served for 26 years.

Delbert enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, playing euchre, watching sports and camping.

Delbert is survived by his five children, Lemmie (Joe) Reiss of West Allis, Wisconsin, Dave (Janie) Sendt of East Dubuque, Dan (Missy) Sendt of East Dubuque, Mary (Don) Wendel of LeClaire, Iowa, and Adam Sendt of Dubuque. He has eight grandchildren, Jeremy (Suzy), and Alison Reiss, Jon (Missy) and Tyler (Alexandra) Sendt, Michael and Matt Sendt, Andrew and Lucas Wendel. He also is survived by sisters Mary (Bob) Heim and Ellen (Paul) Largent; sisters-in-law, Marilyn and Charlene Sendt, and Joan Mitchley; brothers-in-law, Dale (Sue), Erv (Janet) and Mark (Helen) Mitchley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Kay; two brothers Darrell and Duane; and his father and mother-in-law Erv and Dolores Mitchley, Sr.

In lieu of flowers a Delbert Sendt memorial fund has been established.

Delbert’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and the staff of Manor Care.

Gloria J. Wilson

Gloria J. Wilson, 87, of Dubuque died Friday, April 27, 2018 surrounded by family at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Friday, May 4, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. A visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m., Thursday and from 10-11a.m., Friday at the funeral home.

Gloria was born on January 9, 1931 in Dubuque the daughter of Ralph and Alma (Brun) Musfelt. In High School, she worked 2 years at Kresge’s dime store. She graduated from Senior High School class of 1948 then went to work for the phone company “on the switchboard”.
She married Harvey E. Wilson in 1950.

In 1965 she started working for Hartig drug for 13+ years and the Census Bureau.

Gloria enjoyed collecting owls, playing games and watching her “story” between 11 am and noon every day. Her family took yearly trips to Little Sand Lake, Minnesota.
She enjoyed the outdoors and going for walks or taking a scenic drive.

Attending all activities at Stonehill, she especially loved music programs and loved having visitors. She had a sweet tooth and would keep it satisfied with ice cream and Hershey kisses, 9 kisses per serving.

Surviving are her children, Pam Buttikofer, David (Carol) Wilson, Kim McNally, Kevin Wilson, Jeff (Tammy Barnes) Wilson; daughter-in-law, Patty (Pat) Barry; grandchildren, Michael (Stacy) Francois, Kelly (Teena) Francois, Nicole (Chris) Frommelt, Emily Wilson, Kellen Wilson, Erin (Colin) Butler, Kara McNally, Ben (Kayla) Wilson, Nick (Brenda) Wilson, Sam (Krystal) Wilson, Justin Wilson, Eric (Dwijavanthi) Wilson, Matthew Wilson, Lexi Wilson, Nate (Tia) Wilson, Tara (Kevin) Powell, and Corey Wilson; 22 great- grandchildren, Harper, Amos, Alyssa, Olivia, Iris, Reid, Gracie, Felix, Milo, Isabelle, Clara, Lyla, Everly, Hadley, Mia, Nayanthara, Kailee, Kaden, Jaxson, Ryleigh, Madison, and Lily and a sister, Sharon (Tom) Weber, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and son, Mark “Willie” Wilson.

A Gloria Wilson Memorial Fund has been established.
Gloria’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff and residents at Stonehill for their friendship and care. Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for your care and concern.

Elizabeth Ann Wilson

Elizabeth Ann Wilson, 37, took her last breath on Earth and first breath in Heaven on April 20, 2018.

Visitation is 4-8 p.m. on Friday, May 4, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where prayer service will be held at 4 p.m. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 5 at 10 a.m. at Saint Francis Xavier Basilica.

We wish we could say something beautiful, but it wouldn’t do justice to how beautifully she lived her life. Liz received her devastating diagnosis April 20, 2014, and fought like a champion in her battle with lung cancer to the very end, never complaining and always smiling. She even selflessly comforted others.

Liz was born in Huron, South Dakota on January 22, 1981. On her 8th birthday, her parents Steve and Ann Salter moved her and her siblings to Dyersville, IA where she attend St. Francis Xavier Elementary and graduated from Beckman Catholic High School in 1999, with BFF Beth Wagner. She received her Associate of Applied Sciences in Allied Health from Kirkwood Community College in 2004. While working at rehab center in Ankeny, IA she met the love of her life who swept her off her feet to Tucson, Arizona. She continued her education towards her Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in rehabilitation services while raising two children and providing exceptional patient care as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. She received Rehabilitationist of the Year honors in 2009, from Carondelet St. Mary’s Hospital in Tucson, Arizona. She was preparing to begin her Master of Occupational Therapy studies when she was diagnosed with lung cancer.

Liz was a loving, passionate wife and mother. She enjoyed golfing, riding dirt bikes, Disney movies, and taking her rescue dogs Maggie and Arlo to the dog park. She loved spending time with her family and friends with a cold beer, and she especially enjoyed watching her children excel in academics and athletics.

Those surviving Liz knew she was in a win-win situation. She was either going to be cured of her cancer, or was going to be in Heaven with Jesus. She is survived by her husband of 11 years, Steve Wilson, and two children, Brody (8) and Stevie (7), of Marana, Arizona. She is also survived by her parents, Steve and Ann Salter, of Dyersville, IA; her father Steve Axtman, of California; her in-laws, Jim and Ellen Wilson, of Mexico, MO; siblings, Nick Axtman (Trang) of Des Moines, Iowa, Ellyse Ungs (Matt) of Dyersville, IA and Elliot Salter (Olivia) of Dyersville, IA; her sister-in-law Susan Walters (Craig) of Corpus Christi, TX; her BFF Beth Wagner of Ankeny, IA; grandparents, Jim and Janice Rounds, and Shirley Salter of Huron, SD; and her six nephews: Kenneth, Noah, Kasper, Brady, Oliver, and Tyler; and her five nieces McKenzie, Isabella, Peyton, Allie, and Olivia.

Funeral Arrangements in Dyersville and Celebration of Life in Arizona.

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

Eileen M. Putchio

Eileen M. (Thiltgen) Putchio, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Sunday, April 29th, 2018 at home surrounded by her family.

A funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Mark Ressler officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Family Cemetery, New Melleray. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where a wake service will be at 8:00 p.m.

Eileen was born on May 28th, 19??, the daughter of Melvin and Mildred (Thul) Thiltgen. She married Ty Putchio in 1962 and worked aside him in the family business. She looked forward to her daily lunches with Ty and their trips to Branson.
Eileen was avid in volunteering; she volunteered at Birthright for 35 years, Hospice for 9 years, along with time at Mercy Medical Center and donated her time and clothes to the veterans.

Eileen enjoyed many things; attending water aerobics at the YMCA with her friends, dancing to live country music at the Hideaway in Wisconsin with her husband and friends, her Tuesday prayer group, and visiting her kids out of town in Texas and Minnesota. Most importantly, Eileen put her family first, IT’S A FAMILY TRADITION! She was a GREAT LADY.

She is survived by her husband Ty; her children, Rick (Leslie) Putchio, of Texas, Russ Putchio of Minnesota, Randy (Danette) Putchio, of Dubuque, Rhonda (Tony) Grooms, of Minnesota, Ryan Putchio, of Dubuque, and Renee (Mike) Clark, of Dubuque. Her grandchildren, Susana and Eileen Putchio, Kelsey (Ben) Olejnik, Rachael and Ty Putchio, Andrew, Brian (fiance Rachel), Megan Hayes, Whitney, Austin and A.J. Putchio. Chloe and Nora Clark; one step-grandchild Lexi Clark; two great-grandchildren, Aria Hayes and Callahan Olejnik. Brothers and sisters, Don (Peg) Thiltgen, Ron (Candy) Thiltgen, Connie (Carl Severson) Makovec, and Dan (Nacline) Thiltgen; her in-laws Donna and Larry Walter, Charlie & Mary Lou Putchio and Larry & Patty Putchio, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Tom; her in-laws Doris & Gus Putchio, and a nephew Dan Walter and a niece Mary Putchio.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the Oncology Dept. staff at Medical Associates, especially Jenny; and to Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful they gave our wife and mother.

In lieu of flowers and gifts Eileen wanted donations made in her memory to Hospice of Dubuque, Birthright, the Veterans or to Albrecht Acres.

Thomas D. Turner

Thomas D. Turner, 62 of Dyersville, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville with and a Sons of American Legion service held at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Thursday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 3, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Tom was born October 1, 1955 in Dubuque the son of Donald and Arlaine (Fenelon) Turner. He married Karen Brimeyer on May 13, 1978 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville. Tom was a Beckman graduate with the class of 1973.

He was an avid Packers, Cubs, and Hawkeyes fan. Tom was a wonderful and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and brother. He enjoyed family time, especially with his three grandchildren, Olivia (O), Greyson (Buddy), and Jordan Thomas (Little Buddy).

Tom was a long time employee at Mr. Lock and Key and currently employed at Inventory Trading Company. Tom was a charter member of the Sons of the American Legion.

Survivors include his wife, Karen, children: Sara (Justin) Koester of Cedar Falls, Megan (Kyle) Reeves of Dyersville, 3 grandchildren: Olivia Koester, Greyson and Jordan Thomas Reeves, sister, Mary C. Herbers of Dyersville, in-laws: Roy Schindler, Mary Lou (Roger) Meyer, Joanne (Tom) Oberbroeckling, Judy (Dick) Boeckenstedt, Kenny (Dottie) Brimeyer, Darlene (Larry) Boeckenstedt, Marlene (Jerome) Errthum, and Steve (Bonnie) Brimeyer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Ray and Alvina Brimeyer, siblings: Donna Jo Turner, Ruth Ann Schindler, in-laws: Pat (Clark) Lange and Kathy Brimeyer.

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

Christopher J. Stewart

Christopher J. “Chris” Stewart, age 38, of Asbury, and formerly of Waterloo, was called home at 9:25 a.m., on Monday, April 23, 2018. To honor Chris’ life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose St., with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke officiating. To celebrate Chris’ life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Chris was born on June 11, 1979, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of David and Cynthia (Aird) Stewart.

Chris attended St. Anothony’s Elementary School and was a proud graduate of Stephen Hempstead High School, Class of 1998. After graduation, Chris was fortunate enough to spread his wings and live in Colorado for ten years, taking full advantage of the outdoor activities the mountains provided. He would eventually return home to Iowa, going to work in the HVAC industry in Waterloo. He went back to school at Hawkeye Community College for Heating and Cooling. After school, he recently returned to Dubuque to be closer to family and went to work for Geisler Brothers. Chris loved his family and his love for them was always on display, especially when playing with his nieces and nephew. He was always looking for fun ways to make them laugh and earn himself the title of “favorite uncle”. He was a big supporter of his family in all they were doing and took a genuine interest in everyone. Chris who was often known as “Stew” was a loyal friend, everyone could always count on him anytime they needed something. His infectious smile and outgoing personality was known to all who met him. Some of Chris’s favorite things were, rock climbing, fishing, camping, dirt racing, NASCAR, and anything outdoors. He also loved animals, art, and music, especially his favorite band Tool. Our hearts are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of our dear son, brother, uncle and friend. We take some comfort in the fact that he is now reunited with all of our loved ones called home ahead of us and is awaiting the day when we will all be reunited in Eternity.

Those left to cherish Chris’ memory include

his parents,
Dave and Cindy Stewart, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Jeff (Jaime) Stewart, Mableton, GA,
Jenny (Tim Turner) Stewart, Dubuque, IA
and Carrie (Travis) Kraus, Dubuque, IA;

his nieces and nephew,
Ella, Lily and Alex Kraus and Olivia Turner;

his girlfriend,
Janelle Spiegelhalter, and her children, Asbury, IA;

and his aunts, uncles and cousins.

Chris was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Alfred and Bernice Aird; and his paternal grandparents, James and Evelyn Stewart.

Chris’ family would like to thank the Dubuque County Sheriff Department, for their compassionate and professional care of the family, as well as Lance Wieskamp, for all of his support and kindness which was instrumental in helping Chris to maintain his sobriety for the last 5 years.

A Christopher J. Stewart memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities, AA and the Dubuque Humane Society.

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

M. Nancy Loes

M. Nancy Loes, 85, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Saturday, April 28, 2018 at Manor Care in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Nancy may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Services for Nancy will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 3, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born September 29, 1932 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Leo and Grace (Nolan) Knepper. She is a graduate of St. Martin’s High School in Cascade.

On August 1, 1959 she was united in marriage to Robert Loes at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 13, 1985.

She was employed at Ramm and Kurt Drug Store in Cascade for 47 years until her retirement.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by one daughter, Lori Loes and one son Nic (Diane) Loes both of Cascade, IA; two grandchildren, Megan and Ellie Loes; her stepmother, Virginia Knepper of Cascade, IA; and three brothers, Allan (Barbara) Knepper of Pewaukee, WI and Steve Knepper and Gary Knepper both of Cascade, IA; a sister-in-law, Fern Loes of Sioux Falls, SD.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Rob E. Loes on October 11, 2009 and a brother, Nick Knepper October 25, 2008.

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

Sally L. Cashman

Sally L. Cashman, age 81, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:30 p.m., on Saturday, April 28, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Sally’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, May 3, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street. To celebrate Sally’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Sally was born on February 11, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Gregory and Lucille (Fath) Meyer.

Sally was a lifelong Dubuquer, who worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for a couple of years until she finally met her soul-mate, Cletus “Blackie” Cashman, and they would soon begin their own family together. They were united in marriage on June 9, 1956, at St. Patrick’s Church, and the two were truly blessed with 61 years together, and 6 absolutely adored children. Sally undeniably embraced her full-time role as wife, mother and homemaker, and everyone close to her whom she spent her entire life nurturing will always remember all of the committed love and devotion she so naturally spread, not only upon them, but also upon so many others throughout the world around her. In her free time, Sally enjoyed grabbing her bingo dauber and spending an evening with her sisters, sitting down to watch her Cubbies take the field, trying her luck around the card table with Sr. Dorothy and her card club friends all while sharing her witty sense of humor in between shuffles, or even the countless lazy days of relaxing out at Lake Delhi for over 30 years while surrounded by family and friends. Sally was a friendly, honest and faith filled woman who continually made a positive impact on the world around her. Her absence from our physical lives today leaves a terrible ache within our hearts and minds which only time and faith could ever begin to heal; but we are forever grateful for the treasured memories she leaves behind and find comfort in knowing that she’s once again reunited with her son, Gary, and they are now able to catch up on their new eternal perfect world and can wait patiently together for us all to join them in our time. We miss you Sally, we love you deeply and dearly and thank you very much for the wonderful example you lived while the Lord was kind enough to share you with us for 81 years.

Those left to cherish Sally’s memory include

her husband,
Cletus Cashman, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Gail (Carl) Anderson, Little Rock, AR,
Gregory (Ann) Cashman, Bernard, IA,
Guy (Julia) Cashman, Columbia, MO,
Grant Cashman, Dubuque, IA
and Gina (Rob) Wildman, Potosi, WI;

9 grandchildren,
Nicole (Duane), Sarah Beth (Casey), Laura (Adam), Mary (Tony), Justin (Ashley), Jesse, Taylor, Kyle (Leah) and Spencer;

4 great-grandchildren;

and her sisters,
Sandy Henry, Dubuque, IA
and Sue (John) White, Dubuque, IA.

Sally was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Gary Cashman; a daughter-in-law, Deborah Cashman; and a brother-in-law, John Henry.

Sally’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital for their outstanding care of Sally, and her entire family.

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

Steven Werner

Steven “Steve” Werner, 34, of Dubuque, and formerly of Cottage Grove, MN, passed away Friday, April 27, 2018.

Memorial Services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., where friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6.

Steve was born June 22, 1983 in St. Paul, Minnesota, the son of Dan and Lugene (Menard) Werner. He married his high school sweetheart, Krysta Pawlenty on August 29, 2006.

Steve joined the Army on July 17, 2007 as a proud 19D Cavalry scout, serving almost 8 years and deploying with the 6th Squadron 8th Cavalry Regiment of 4th Brigade Combat Team 3rd Infantry Division 3 times. Steve was an invaluable asset and everyone’s best friend, his indomitable spirit and ability to make anyone laugh carried his team through more times than can be counted. Steve’s awards include the Combat Action Badge, 3 Army Commendation Medals, the Army Achievement Medal, 2 Meritorious Unit Citations, 2 Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and the Drivers Mechanics Badge. “Until Valhalla brother, we will see you on the Fiddlers Green.”

Following his honorable discharge in 2015, Steve was employed at Menards. He earned his EMT certification, and began working at Paramount Ambulance in August of 2017, a job he loved. Recently, he had joined the Peosta-Centralia Fire Department as a volunteer.

Steve was a fantastic chef, and earned a degree from Le Cordon Bleu. He worked at many high end restaurants in the Minnesota area, and could always be counted on to make “fancy” food for his friends and family. Steve was very creative, and enjoyed sketching, drawing, and most recently woodworking. He also enjoyed hunting and got very excited for 4th of July fireworks. Steve loved his children, and enjoyed taking his son Kaden duck hunting.

Steve is survived by his wife, Krysta, of Dubuque; his children, Kaden, Rilan, Nolan, and Gracen; his parents, Dan and Lugene Werner, of Cottage Grove, MN; his sister, Krissie (Tim) Thrush of Woodbury, MN and their children, Kiley and Timmy; his parents-in-law Leroy and Carolyn Pawlenty of Peosta; and many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

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

Sharon Ewert

Sharon Ewert, 71, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Memorial Services will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace from Hospice of Dubuque officiating. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 2, at the funeral home.

Sharon was born July 7, 1946 in New Hampton, IA, the daughter of Bill and Loretta (Brincks) Hruska. She married Lawrence Ewert on April 1, 1967 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on March 2, 2011.

Sharon graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964, and continued her education in Library Science. Sharon was employed as an executive secretary for Charles Kintzinger at Kintzinger Law Firm, and later as a librarian at Carnegie Stout Public Library, retiring in the mid-2000’s.

Sharon enjoyed crochet, music, and reading. She loved children, and especially loved her “granddog” Ember. Purple was her favorite color.

Sharon is survived by her son, Lawrence “Larry” Ewert Jr. of Dubuque; her sister, Mary (Dave) Puetz of Bernard; her brother Harold Hruska of Dubuque; her in-laws, John (Sharyn) Ewert, Cindy (Dennis) Cottrell, Laura (David) Bourquin, Kathy Ewert, and LaVonne Ewert; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Lawrence Ewert Sr., .she was preceded in death by her parents; her parents in law, John Sr. and Sylvia Ewert; and her in-laws, David and Daniel Ewert, and Sandra Diane Ewert in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sharon Ewert Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Specialty Care; Hospice of Dubuque; Dr. Mark Hermann and staff; Dr. Jill Powers and staff; Sr. Alice; and the staff at Finley Hospital 5 North.

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

Brian R. Beadle

Brian R. Beadle, 58, of Galveston, TX formerly of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at the UTMB Hospital in Galveston. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday May 1, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview funeral Home and Crematory 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. with a prayer service following at 7:00 pm

Nancy C. Sullivan

Nancy C. Sullivan, 84, of Cascade, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, April 27, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Nancy may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 10 a.m, Wednesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial for Nancy will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born August 5, 1933 in Cascade, Iowa, Daughter of William L. and Florence I. (Dunn) Kauder. She received her education from St. Mary’s High School in Cascade, Iowa. On October 22, 1955 she was united in marriage to Richard L. “Dick” Sullivan at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 17, 2018.

She is a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by five children, Shawn (Mark) Curoe of Aurora, IL, Tara (Jim “Jake”) Noonan of Cascade, IA, Lisa (Tom) Roth of Bellevue, IA, Bridget (Mike) Rea of Cascade, IA, Ryan Sullivan of Cedar Rapids, IA; 15 grandchildren, Cameron and Cale, Brynn, Blaine and Kaleb, Nicole, Megan and Rachel, Calvin, Colin, Claire, Chloe and Corinne, Ethan and Rylan; 13 great grandchildren with three more on the way; one sister, Lois (John) Sullivan of Cascade, IA three sisters-in-law, Rita Kauder and Joan Kauder both of Cascade, IA and Diana Kauder of Dubuque, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Jacquie (Lavern) Lambert and Phyllis (John “Skip”) Dolphin; three brothers, Fred, Kenneth “P.J.” and William “W.J.” Kauder; one sister-in-law, Norma (Robert) Kurt.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Shady Rest Memory Care Unit, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeanette Mausser, Sherry Kelchen and the Reiff Funeral Home for all the care and support they have given to Dick and Nancy and their family.
In Lieu of flowers a Nancy Sullivan memorial fund has been established.

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

Mairlyn E. Higgins Blok

Mairlyn Elaine Higgins Blok of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on a beautiful spring day on Friday, April 20, 2018 to the loving comfort of singing provided by Hospice caregivers. A tribute to her life is planned starting with visitation Tuesday, April 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 J.F.K. Road, in Dubuque. Funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2018 starting at Grand View United Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Drive, Dubuque, with Rev. Thomas Shinkle officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Farley, Iowa.

Mairlyn was born on December 25, 1933 in Farley, Iowa the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Reimer) Rowe. Each Christmas would be a double celebration in honor of the birth of Christ and the birth of a truly beautiful woman loved by her family and many, many friends.

Mairlyn graduated from Dubuque Senior High School with the class of 1952. She married Warren C. Higgins Sr. June 25, 1953; he preceded her in death in 1979. For several decades she voluntarily organized memorable reunions and events for her classmates. In 1998 she retired from Finley Hospital after 28 years of service as Executive Assistant to the President and Human Resources. Mairlyn was a hard worker who also took part-time positions to help make ends meet while raising her sons on her own. A few of those employers through the years included JoAnn’s Dress Shop, the Sunflower Dress Shop, and the Redstone Bed and Breakfast. For 30 years Mairlyn also served as part-time Executive Secretary to the Dubuque County Medical Society.

In July of 1985 Mairlyn married Cleland Noah of Santa Rosa, CA. They enjoyed a loving union for only two short years due to a short illness that took his life in 1987. During that time they traveled and enjoyed life to the fullest.

In May of 1997 she once again found happiness and love and married Robert W. Blok of East Dubuque, IL. He preceded her in death in 2016. For nearly 20 years they traveled and attended social and volunteer events with their wide connection of friends. She would often organize large group events for shopping and to attend plays throughout the Midwest.

A critical auto accident in 2011 nearly took her life, but her faith was insurmountable. Her inspiration during the hardest times came from Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. She was eventually able to walk again in 2013 after several surgeries, however, a double stroke eventually placed her into 24-hour care for the remainder of her life. We wish to thank the staff of Good Samaritan Society of Davenport, IA, The Village of Legacy Point of Waukee, IA, and Suncrest Hospice of West Des Moines for their care and attention to her needs.

Her love for family kept her strong. Mushroom-hunting outings and years of month-long summer trips to Minnesota will be remembered by her sons. She will also be remembered for her deep love and attention to each grandchild, insisting that she spend personal time with each of them. It was her mission to take each of them to Disney World even when she could barely afford it. She had no greater joy than to see her family members succeed in their own unique ways, and for them to find happiness in their lives. She made great effort to be as involved as possible in her family’s lives. Her earthly presence and love will be missed by us all, but we know she will be watching over us until we all reunite in Heaven one day.

Surviving are her children; Warren (Julie) Higgins Jr. of Fremont, NE and their children Brad Higgins (Alexandria Cudworth and son Elijah) and Michelle (Reece) Kresser and son Benjamin; Paul (Tracy) Higgins of Flower Mound, TX and Brett (Diane) Higgins of Van Meter, IA and their children Boyd (Katie) Higgins and son Jack, and Jenna (Ryan) Boll.

The youngest of her siblings, Mairlyn was also preceded in death by brothers John (Pat) Rowe, and Laverne (Marion) Rowe, and sisters Betty Lou (who died as an infant), Edith (Edward) Kunau, and Esther (Howard) Walter.

As avid supporters of many causes, Mairlyn was especially fond of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in support of helping find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Memorial donations will be collected and submitted in her honor. Checks may be made payable to Brett Higgins – all proceeds will be submitted to JDRF in Mairlyn’s honor. Because JDRF is a 501(c)(3) organization, proceeds will be doubled through employer matching by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. Thank you FHLB of Des Moines.

Judith A. Wand

Judith A. Wand, 77 passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 30 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 Sunday, April 28, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road.

Judith was born on February 27, 1941in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert and Virginia (Boren) Kies. She graduated from Visitation Academy and started working immediately at American Trust & Savings Bank. She met and fell in love with her future husband, Donald W. Wand who also worked at the bank.

Don and Judy started dating in December 1961 and were married on September 8, 1962 at St. Anthony’s Church where she was a member from 1959 until her death.

She left her job at the bank in July of 1963. Their first son, Michael was born in March of 1964; Steven in April 1966; Christopher in December 1967; and finally a daughter, Lisa in March 1971.

Judy was very involved at her children’s schools as a homeroom mother, carpooling on outings or wherever they needed. She was also a Cub Scout den mother for six years.

She enjoyed league bowling in her younger years, doing crossword puzzles, crafts, reading and watching her Chicago Cubs and Minnesota Vikings.

She went to work on the public school lunch program once all the kids were in school. Then she worked at a dress shop for a couple of years until it closed and finished her working years at Sears, retiring in 2002.

Don and Judy took some wonderful trips with the AmeriClub. They traveled to the east coast a couple of times, to England, Ireland, Italy, and Switzerland.

They also took wonderful trips with their children to Disney World, Sea World, Six Flags, New Salem and Springfield Illinois and many trips to Adventure Land with her sister and family. They both enjoyed going to the Casino’s.

She is survived by her four children, Michael W. Wand, Steven R. Wand, Christopher J. (Wil Hatchel) Wand, Lisa (David) Gatena; grandchildren, Courtney (Matt) Wand- Cooley, April Wand, Alexis Wand, Olivia Wand, and Max Gatena; Step- grandchildren, Aaron (Kara) Gatena, Ryan (Jennifer) Gatena, Madison Gatena; step- great- grandchildren, Kinley and Thomas Gatena; brother-in-law, Steven (Julie) Bartmann; many nieces and nephews; two former daughters-in-law, Marlene Wand and Mary Wand who she was still friends with to the end.

Judy was predeceased by her parents, Robert E. Kies Sr., 2008, mother, Virginia, 1996; husband, Donald, 2008; brother, Robert E. (Anne, 2011) Kies Jr., 2013; sister, Barbara (Gail Olson, 1971) Olson Bartmann, 2001; father-in-law, William Wand, 1976; mother-in-law, Lillian Wand, 1989; sister-in-law, Irma (Kenneth, 2003) Heim, 1985; and sister-in-law, Eulalia Wand, 2007.

A Judith Wand memorial fund has been established with proceeds to be donated to her favorite charities.

Judith’s family extends a special thank you to Dr. Mark Hermann and the staffs at Grand River Medical Group and Mercy Hospital for their care and support.