Obituaries Archive

Andrew C. Witter

Andrew C. Witter, 42, of Dubuque, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Owls Head, ME, while working with his crew on a golf course.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 5:45 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Andrew will be at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Terry Bemis officiating. Burial will be at Asbury Cemetery at a later date.

Andrew was born February 28, 1984, in Dubuque, IA, the son of David and Robin (Cottrell) Witter.

Andrew graduated from Hempstead High School in 2002. He had been working for Leibold Irrigation for the last 18 years and was well known by his nickname, “Waldo.”

Andrew enjoyed traveling both for work and leisure. he loved snowboarding, skiing, and taking his motorcycle out on the open road. Above all else, his family and friends meant the world to him, and he cherished every moment spent with those he loved. Andrew will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and the way he treated his co-workers like family.

Survivors include his father, David (Michelle) Witter of Dubuque; brother, Aaron (Megan) Witter of Dubuque; sister, Hannah Witter; nieces, Madison (Joe) Vize, and Ava Witter both of Dubuque; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Robin Maiden; paternal grandparents, Carl and Carmelita Witter; maternal grandparents, John and June Cottrell; one brother, Mike DeMuth; and one sister, Naomi Witter.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Gerald M. Schroeder

Doris M. Wiederholt

Doris M. (Donovan) Wiederholt, 89, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away on Friday evening, May 8, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Church at Sinsinawa, WI. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends may visit from 9:15 – 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Doris was born on August 16, 1936, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Leo and Bessie (Graham) Donovan. She was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy in Dubuque. She met Kenneth L. Wiederholt at a dance at Melody Mill Ballroom in Dubuque. They united in marriage on May 5, 1956 at St. Joseph of the Prairie Church, Dubuque County, Iowa. Together they owned and operated Wiederholt Agri Service, along with farming in rural Hazel Green. They enjoyed traveling together and after retiring, spending their winters in Alamo, TX. Kenny preceded her in death on November 14, 2021.

Doris was a member of St. Joseph Parish and the Council of Catholic Women. Faith and family were a very important part of her life. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother.

Doris was very proud of her Irish heritage, and one could often hear her favorite singer Daniel O’Donnell playing in the kitchen. Doris had a passion quilting, especially with her “sewing ladies”. She also enjoyed playing euchre, dominos, and tending to her flowers. It brought her great joy to have grandchildren and great-children visit.

Surviving are three children, Ken (Kim) Wiederholt and Steve (Linda) Wiederholt both of Hazel Green, WI, and Sharon (Dennis) Watters of Cuba City, WI, a daughter-in-law, Karen Wiederholt of Hazel Green, WI; nine grandchildren, Ricky Wiederholt, Katie (A. J.) Vogt, Tony (Ashley) Wiederholt, Haley (Andrew) Lindenberg, Becky (Luke) Hill, Nicole (Wade) Black, Eric (special friend Penny) Wiederholt, Scott (fiancé Lea Kieffer) Wiederholt, and Neil Wiederholt; 12 great grandchildren; a sister, Rita (Tom) Kurt of Cascade, IA; in-laws, Ardella “Toots” Leibold of East Dubuque, IL, Judy (Carl) Timmerman, Cuba City, WI, and Everett Runde of Platteville, WI, and Eileen Donovan of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Bessie, her husband, Ken, two sons, Dale and Randy Wiederholt; son-in-law, Rick Wallenhorst; siblings, Bob Donovan, Jeanette (Jack) Fondell, and Roger Donovan; in-laws, Eileen “Beaner” Wiederholt, Shirley (Leonard) Ricke, Donna (Bob) Tippett, and Phyllis Runde; Peter Leibold, Don (Anna Mae) Wiederholt and father and mother-in-law, Wilbert “Mike” and Alice (Pluym) Wiederholt.

The family wishes to thank her in-home care givers, the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for the care provided for Doris.

In lieu of flowers and plants, a Doris Wiederholt memorial fund has been established for Doris’ favorite charities.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

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

Susan K. Berthel

Susan K. (Morrow) Berthel, 62 of Miles, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Mercy One in Dubuque.  A Celebration of Life will be held  4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, May 15, 2026 at Corey’s House at 17243 374th Avenue Bellevue, Iowa. 

Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Susan was born August 31, 1963, the daughter of Paul and Barbara (Eversoll) Morrow.  She married Roger Berthel on September 5, 2008.  Susan was a homemaker, enjoyed gardening and helping Roger on the farm.

Survivors include her husband, Roger; a son, Ben (Kym) Roling Whitten and Roger’s son, Corey (Aleshia) Berthel; grandchildren, Deacon, Parker, Ivy, and Veda; siblings, William (Roberta) Morrow, Gerald Morrow, a sister in-law, Pamela Morrow; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Timothy Morrow, a brother Paul Morrow and a sister in-law, Bonnie Morrow; and Roger’s son, Shawn Berthel.

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

James P. Reilly

James “Jim” Patrick Reilly, 84, lifetime member of Dubuque, IA, died on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Veterans’ Home at Manteno, IL.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jim was born June 15, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Ray and Monica (Richter) Reilly. He graduated from Loras Academy and Loras College.

Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1963 until he was honorably discharged in 1965. He was stationed in Germany and served as a Chaplain’s Assistant.

On August 19, 1967, he married Kathleen “Kay” Cook at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on December 29, 1992.

Jim worked in Product Support for John Deere Dubuque Works until he retired after 35 years. If the name John Deere came up he would always say “nothing runs like a Deere.”

When Jim was a member of Church of the Resurrection he served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and assisted with the fall festival. He was proud of the activities he assisted with at the church and was always happy to help wherever needed. Jim enjoyed staying active, whether it be exercising and swimming at the Dubuque YMCA or taking his daily walk around the neighborhood when the weather allowed. Jim’s devotion to St. Francis of Assisi was expressed in the simple joy he found in feeding the birds and squirrels either relaxing on his porch swing in the summer months and making sure in the winter all the animals that found their way to his porch were well fed. He also enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs, an ice cold root beer, and a big bowl of ice cream.

After suffering a stroke in the summer of 2023, Jim went to live with his children in the Chicago suburbs. As his needs progressed, he moved to Manteno Veterans facility in the fall of 2024. He was a loved member of that community and they treated him with honor, dignity, and respect for his service to our country.

Survivors include his two sons, Kevin Reilly of Oak Forest, IL, and Jim (Grace) Reilly of Orland Park, IL; three grandchildren, Athena, Jason, and Jonathan; eight great-grandchildren, Leo, Isaiah, Tessa, Enzo, Roman, Riley, Rocco, and Remi; son-in-law, Dan Sujack; and two sisters, Sharon Ehlinger of Dubuque, and Maureen “Mickey” (Mike) Digman.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kay; one daughter, Laura Sujack; sister, Patricia Wemett; and brother-in-law, Dave Ehlinger.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Jim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Sr. Mary Lou Cota, PBVM

Sister Mary Lou Cota, PBVM, (formerly Sister William Marie) 88, died on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, Iowa.

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, friends may call from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a wake service at 9:30 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Sister Lou, daughter of William and Marie (Hawes), was born on June 15, 1937, as Mary Lou Cota, in Harpers Ferry, Iowa. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation on September 8, 1955, and professed her perpetual vows on August 21, 1963.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College and a Master of Arts from St. Mary’s College, Winona, Minnesota. Sister Lou’s ministries took her to Ryan, Lawler, Farley, and Dubuque (St. Columbkille), all in Iowa, and St. Dorothy School and Augustus Tolton Catholic Academy, both in Chicago, Illinois, where she taught general science, physics, biology and computer science. After retiring from teaching, she served as a volunteer at St. Dorothy Parish and St. Gerard Majella Parish in Markham, before returning to Mount Loretto in 2021. She celebrated her 60th Jubilee in 2015.

Deeply committed to justice, Sister Lou lived a life of quiet courage, deep compassion and unwavering faith. She immersed herself in diverse ministries, embracing every person she met with warmth and respect and celebrating the beauty in every culture. Whether volunteering in her parishes, visiting those who were homebound or simply sharing a conversation, she made everyone feel seen and valued. Sister Lou had a remarkable ability to connect across differences, to recognize the dignity in every person and to inspire others through her example of kindness and justice. Her life was a testament to the Presentation mission – bringing light, hope and love wherever she went.

Surviving are her sisters, Gena (Paul) Kramer and Sister Mary Kay, brother, Rich (June), nieces, nephews and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 70 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Rose (Leo) Foley, Shirley (Jim) Scholle, and her brothers, Jerry (Marion), Robert (Mary Lou) and Leon (Ruth), and brother-in-law, Mel Jones.

The Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Dr. Samuel J. Sullivan

Dr. Samuel J. Sullivan, 82, of Dubuque passed away Monday May 4,2026 due to complications from a stroke.  Sam died peacefully surrounded by loved ones in prayer.

Visitation for Dr. Sam will be held from 4 to 7pm, Tuesday, May 12th at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday May 13th at 10:30 am at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.

Dr. Sam (Doc) was born on January 13, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Leo & Margaret (Fortmann) Sullivan.  Sam graduated from Senior High School and continued his education at National College of Chiropractic in Lombard, Illinois and graduated in Chiropractic in 1967.  He later received a diplomat from the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists. Dr. Sam was a Chiropractor and caregiver in Dubuque for the past 59 years and he was in practice with his son, Dr. Jim for 36 years.

Sam was married to his high school sweetheart Lavonne Lorraine Pfohl at St Mary’s Church in Dubuque on November 26, 1964 and they were married for 62 years.  Sam was a devoted father and grandfather to 4 children and 14 grandchildren. They were his pride and joy! Their favorite times were spent together at the family’s cottage on the Mississippi with “Grandpa Sam” hosting his famous fish fries for family and friends. Summer evenings were spent by the campfire sharing stories and Grandpa Sam’s famous jokes.  Sam and Lavonne also enjoyed their travels.

Sam was a past member of Thunder Hills Country Club and is a current member of the 660 Dubuque Shooting Society. When he wasn’t with his family, he enjoyed golfing, bowling and playing cards with his buddies.

Sam is survived by his wife Lavonne, of Dubuque, Iowa, his four children, Dr. Jim (Anita) Sullivan of Dubuque, IA, Darla (J.D.) Sullivan-White of Dallas, Texas, Dr. Sandra Sullivan of Dallas, Texas, Mark (Agi) Sullivan of Madison, Wisconsin.  Fourteen grandchildren, Patrick (Sofia) Sullivan, Alex Sullivan, Christopher (Katherine) Sullivan, Peter (Mikayla) Sullivan, Joseph Sullivan, Maggie Sullivan, Logan White, Sophia White, Sam Sullivan White, Lucas White, Isabella Sullivan, Carynne Sullivan, Nolan Sullivan, & Abigail Sullivan.  He is also survived by siblings Gene Sullivan and Ginger Bower.

He is preceded in death by his siblings Joyce, Suzanne, Mickey, John L., Judy, and Sandy.

In lieu of flowers a Dr. Sam Sullivan Memorial Fund has been established.

Mary Anne Barry

Mary Anne (Funk) Barry, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Tuesday May 5, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital surrounded by her family.

Family and friends may visit on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. At 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, there will be a gathering for sharing memories, also at Leonard Funeral Home.  Interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook Page.

Mary Anne was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on May 4, 1953, to Francis “Bud” and Rita (Conry) Funk.  She attended Nativity Grade School in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1971.

On November 24, 1973, she was united in marriage to Dennis Barry at The Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.

Mary Anne spent many years as a homemaker and stay at home mom until her children were all in school. She then began working as a pharmacy technician, a job she enjoyed and excelled at. She was promoted to Lead Technician shortly after starting and worked at Eagle Country Market for most of her career.  She was also a bartender at Dubuque American Legion Post 6 and made many friends during that time.

She was funny, stubborn and independent. She always made sure everyone had what they needed and rarely sat still for long. Mary Anne was up for anything and over the years she country line danced with Dennis, played darts, jumped into pools in pajamas and got into mischief with friends.

In addition to baking, cooking, listening to music and watching true crime shows, she loved puttering in the yard and looked forward to planting flowers each spring.

Mary Anne was a member of the Dubuque American Legion Post 6 Auxiliary.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Dennis; their children Jennifer Nadermann and James Barry of Dubuque, Kathryn Ties and grandson Cooper Ties of Iowa City.  She is also survived by her brother William Funk, of Eudora, Kansas, sister-in-law Maureen Barry, brother-in-law Patrick (Patty) Barry of Dubuque, sister-in-law Connie Funk, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, parents in law, brothers Michael and Patrick Funk, and sons in law Brian Ties and Korey Nadermann.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Herman and the nursing staff at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital.

Norma Mae Apel

Norma Mae (Steger) Apel, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, was welcomed into her Lord’s loving arms on May 5, 2026.

Public visitation will be held at Nativity Church, 1225 Alta Vista St., in Dubuque, Iowa, on May 15th beginning at 9 a.m. followed by her funeral mass officiated by Very Rev. Dennis Quint at 10:30 a.m. and interment at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa, is assisting the family.

Born December 23, 1931, in Dyersville, Iowa, Norma spent her earliest years on her grandfather’s farm and was the second oldest of five children. She was a good-natured kid who got along well with others. But she also had a certain determination and resolve, which got her into trouble when her brothers wouldn’t let her ride a bicycle they were told to share. One day, when it was laying in the grass, she picked up a pitchfork and flattened both tires.

It’s possible this was one of the only times she did anyone wrong. Norma had keen maternal instincts from a young age, which only deepened after the loss of her father in a drowning accident when she was just 14. In the years after, while her mother was busy working, Norma would head home after Catholic school to cook, bake, clean and sew for the family. After graduating high school, she worked at All Steel, which she always said was her favorite job.

Norma married her husband of 61 years, Frannie, on June 9, 1956, at Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville. They moved to San Diego for a short time (which Norma would always say was her favorite place to live) but eventually returned to Frannie’s hometown of Dubuque to settle in for the rest of their lives.

As the matriarch of her family, Norma was a devoted wife and mother who is remembered as loving, caring, kind and selfless. She entertained the kids with family boating and camping in the summers on the Mississippi. She kept the home running with her delicious meals and always offered dessert (including her famous rhubarb custard and grape pies, her crust made from scratch). She was very involved in her children’s activities, including by serving as a Webelos den leader. And she was a protector. In the winters, she would have the kids put bread bags over their feet before putting on their boots so their feet would never be wet or cold when walking to school in the snow.

Even as she grew older, Norma had a timeless beauty, stylish down to the large collection of shoes she maintained. She also moved with the stamina of someone half her age. She would wake up before dawn to walk to morning mass at Nativity, then head straight to Loras College to swim laps. She also enjoyed long walks on the Heritage Trail, gardening and picking vegetables—often with one of her many grandchildren in tow. She kept her mind busy, whether through reading the daily newspaper, crossword puzzles, or a favorite book. After the kids were raised, she learned to read music and took piano lessons to refine her playing. A supporter of the arts, Norma enjoyed local classical concerts and going to the theater.

Norma was well-traveled. She criss-crossed the country on long road trips with Frannie and their grandkids in their signature blue Astro van—hiking in the Southwest, seeing shows in Branson, Mo., and going to Disney World in Florida. She had a thirst for learning history and connecting with people from different backgrounds, expanding her worldview through trips to Guatemala, Mexico, London, Paris, and even South Korea. The people, she always said, were so nice.

But of course, so was she. Norma never seemed to get mad or upset—or if she did, she still remained calm. She was affable through and through, with a warmth, approachability, wry sense of humor and a big smile and giggle—especially when she got to see the great-grandkids get into mischief—that made her a pleasure to be around. Many also remember Norma as wholesome. She didn’t swear or drink alcohol, and she loved the farmers market and organic fruits and vegetables. However, she did have at least one vice: four pats of butter on a Panera bear claw.

Norma is survived by children Carla Hiatt of East Dubuque, Ill., Francis (Judy) Apel of Stoughton, Wis., Jeff (Cindy) Apel of East Dubuque, Ill., and Steve (Pernilla) Apel of Vinton, Iowa; grandchildren Lisa LeConte, Jennifer (Bill) Graham, Jeff (Cassie) Hiatt, Kurtis Hiatt (Danny Schmidt), Sister Incarnata Apel, O.P., Thomas Apel, Rebekah Apel, Benjamin Apel, Joe Apel, Wade (Christina) Grimsford, Matt (Paige) Apel, Brandon Apel (Hannah Johnson), Derek Apel; great-grandchildren Clara LeConte, Anna Graham, William Graham, Miles Hiatt, Mila Hiatt, Theo Hiatt and Esther Hiatt Schmidt; best friend Nellie Splinter; sisters-in-law Diane Post, Darlene Steger, Celie Steger, and Patti Steger; and brother-in-law Eugene Schmitz.

Norma is predeceased by husband Francis “Frannie” Apel; parents Sylvester and Rosalia (Quint) Steger; son Kevin Apel; brothers Donald, Vernon and Paul Steger; sister Rosemary Schmitz; son-in-law Tom Hiatt; mother-in-law and father-in-law Angeline and Francis Apel; and sisters-in-law Janaan Eudaley and Norma Beam.

Norma’s family extends its gratitude to the many individuals who helped care for her, including Grand Meadows-Asbury staff (okey-doke Taylor), Asbury Emergency transport, Paramount transport, Finley Emergency and Finley Hospital staffs (Shelby and Lisa—and no, Lisa, you can’t take Norma home with you!), NP Sherri, Dr. Pierotti and nurse Ann, Dr. Konz and nurse Cheri, Dr. Khan and staff, and Hospice of Dubuque staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dubuque Humane Society, honoring Norma’s love of dogs—especially the injured or retired greyhounds she adopted from the racing park.

Home again, home again, jiggety jog.

Mark J. Biermann

Mark J.  Biermann, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026 Initiative Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Mark will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.  Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born on March 8, 1950 in Dyersville, Iowa, one of twins to Raymond and Dorothy (Ries) Biermann.

He was employed as a Hair-dresser, he then worked at the Saddle Shop in Iowa Falls and traveled to Horse Shows all over.  He later worked at Sears in Des Moines, Iowa.  He then moved to Branson, and then returned to Dubuque where he was employed at Hartig Drug.

He was a very independent personality, he had a very quiet demeanor.  He enjoyed reading and drawing.  He used to enjoy horseback riding.

He is survived by his siblings, Don (Janet) Biermann of Dubuque, IA, LeRoy (Shirley) Biermann Peosta, IA, Kenny Biermann of Farley, IA, Paul (Kathy) Biermann of Epworth, IA and his twin Marilyn Hawkins of Cascade, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Doris Biermann, Robert and LaVonne Biermann, Donna Biermann, and Dave Hawkins.

Online condolences sent to the family at ww*********************@***il.com

The family of Mark would like to thank the entire staff of Initiative Care, Hospice of Dubuque for the care and compassion given to Mark and to all the friends and relatives for your support, visits, and prayers.

Elaine M. Tracey

Elaine M. Tracey, 88, of Meth-Wick Community and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Meth-Wick Community in Cedar Rapids, Iowa surrounded by her family.

Elaine was born on January 8, 1938, daughter of Elmer and Dolores Weydert.

Elaine married John D. Tracey on May 17, 1958 at St. John the Baptist church in Peosta, Iowa. Their marriage of over 64 years was blessed with four children.  

Over the course of her marriage she lived in Illinois, Georgia, and Iowa.  Upon returning to Iowa, John and Elaine purchased a bar/restaurant in Worthington, Iowa called the End Gate.  John’s natural ability to have a good time and Elaine’s amazing cooking and ability to make everyone feel like a friend, made a great combination for a successful business for four years. In 1984, John and Elaine moved to Ottumwa, Iowa where they both continued their education.  Elaine graduated from Indian Hills Community College in 1988 with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing. She practiced as a Registered Nurse at Ottumwa Regional Health Center and later retired from Wapello County Public Health in Ottumwa Iowa. In 2000, their hearts and family pulled them back to Epworth, Iowa, where they built a new home and lived for over 20 years.  In 2022, they moved to River Bend in Cascade, Iowa, where they lived until John’s death in 2024.  Elaine continued to live at River Bend amongst friends, both new and old. She loved her time at River Bend and all of the new friendships she made there. 

In April of 2026, Elaine’s daughter, Colleen, “made her move” to Meth-Wick in Cedar Rapids due to failing health and to be closer to her.  While resenting it at first, Elaine, once again, made friends at Meth-Wick and enjoyed visiting with them at meal times. Elaine decided she wanted to continue her life without any further hospitalizations and voiced the desire to be under the care of Essence of Life Hospice, who ensured Elaine’s last days would be comfortable and dignified.

Elaine is survived by her three children: Patrick (Vickie) Tracey of Dyersville, IA Michael (Debbie) Tracey, of Roselle, IL, and Colleen (Chris Dean) Sincox of Cedar Rapids, IA; one daughter-in-law, Denise Tracey, of Worthington, IA; 14 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 3 step-grandchildren. Sisters, Joyce Horsfield, Janet Pitz, Marilyn (John) Kettmann, and Marlene Kramer;  Brothers, Jack Weydert, Tom (Donna) Weydert, Dave Weydert, Jerome (Marty) Weydert and Joe Weydert, and Bill (Janice) Weydert, Sisters-in-law, Margie (Dick) Phillips and Fay Tracey.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John, her son, Terry Tracey, her son-in-law, Steve Sincox; and one grandchild, Nathan Tracey.  She was also preceded in death by her sister, Lois (Allen) Laughlin, brothers, Jim (Donna) Weydert, and Gery Weydert, In Laws; Lloyd Kramer, Irwin “Red” Horsfield, Jeanne Weydert, Judi Weydert, Kathy Weydert, Ronald Pitz, Jim Tracey, Carol Fuhs, and Fritz Fuhs.

Friends and relatives may join a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 where services for Elaine will be held at 10:30 am in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Steven Garner officiating.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s cemetery in Farley, Iowa. Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa is assisting the family. 

Prior to the mass a Nurse Honor Guard-Florence Nightengale Tribute will be held in honor of Elaine’s years of dedication to nursing.

Elaine was independent, loving, understanding, encouraging, and did not make it a practice to hold her emotions or feelings in.  She enjoyed cooking, baking, playing cards, crocheting, and entertaining, and spending time with friends and family. She loved her family, including her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren ferociously and loved nothing more than spending time with them. They never left her presence without a hug and a big “I love you”.

The family asks for no flowers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in the name of Terry Tracey, Essence of Life Hospice, or Riverbend Retirement Community. 

Rosemary Winner

Rosemary “Hon” (Heiderscheit) Winner, 99, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on May 6th, 2026, at Assisi Village Memory Care. Visitation will be held Friday, May 8th from 4 to 6pm at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1700 Rhomberg Ave Dubuque. Visitation will continue Saturday May 9th from 10:00 -11:15 am with Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 am. Rev. Jeff Frieden will officiate. The family requests that you wear the color of your favorite flower (no black), Rosemary loved flowers. Egelhof, Siegert, and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Born at home on October 12, 1926, to John P. and Florence B. (Roe) Heiderscheit.  Rosemary was the third youngest of 15 children and the last surviving. Rosemary married John Winner on November 27, 1948, at St. Patrick’s Church, Dubuque. They built their home on Garfield Ave. in 1950 and raised three daughters there. Rosemary was a licensed beautician working at Stampfer’s until she had children. She then became a full-time mother and homemaker.  Before John suffered a devastating stroke in 2001, the couple camped throughout the United States. Their adventures included Yellowstone,  Grand Tetons, and The Black Hills. In 1974, they discovered Grand Marais, Minnesota, and fell in love with the beauty of the North Shore. What began as trips with a tent, fold-down evolved to a pick up camper and ended with their beloved Escaper motorhome. They made Grand Marais their cherished annual destination. Closer to home, Rosemary and John loved spending time at Spook Cave Campground and Grant River Recreation Area, affectionately known as “Potosi.” Mom made many delicious meals on their old “Campcook” camp stove. While she saw much of the country by road, Rosemary never flew on an airplane, nor did she ever have a credit card!  Many happy hours were spent heading home from a horse show riding shot gun with her granddaughter. She enjoyed drives through Eagle Point Park and up to the river. She loved fishing, especially trout fishing at Swiss Valley. Rosemary was known for her incredible homemade apple and lemon pies, and noone could ever match her fried potatoes cooked in bacon grease. Music was woven deeply into Rosemary’s life. She played the organ at Holy Trinity Catholic Church for more than 45 years.

A true Heiderscheit, Rosemary never passed up a good card game. Whether it was bingo, 500 rummy, or euchre. At age 94, she made her final trip to Duluth and Grand Marais with her daughter Peggy and granddaughters Amanda and Tina, grateful to still be in such remarkable physical health.

Rosemary is survived by her three daughters: Carolyn (Richard) Janssen, Barb (Steve) Johnson, Peggy (Gerry) Miller; her grandchildren Tina (Jeff) Trussoni, Natalie (Michael Metz) Janssen, Brandon Janssen, Emily (Sheldon) Schlie, and Amanda Miller.  Great-grandchildren Chelsie (Joe Kipper) Brendemuehl, Chase Brendemuehl, Chad Brendemuehl, Florence (Flora) Janssen-Metz, Kaylee and Skye Schlie. Great-Great Grandchildren, Lennen Pursell, Brynlee Kipper, and Raylon Kipper. Also 4 beloved grand cats.

She was preceded in death by her husband John in 2012; her parents, her brothers, John (Mildred), Harold (Josephine), Frank (Bernice), Charles M. (killed in action 1945), Leonard (Phyllis), Leo (Kay) and sisters, Agnes (Clarence) Klaas, Dorothy (Arnold “Pat”) Crawford, Virginia (Merlan) Saylor, Janette (Donald) Dunne, Julia (Richard) Simon, Clara (Gerald) Dolter, Hazel (William) Schend, and Norma (Roger) Wagner. In-laws Sylvester (Esther) Winner, Mildred (Ed Fairfield and George Beau) Fairfield, Eileen (Paul) Pape, Clifford (Dorothy) Winner and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend thank you to the staff of Assisi Village Memory Care, especially Hannah, Maddie, Kennedy, Meghan, Caela, Jodi, Alyssa, Haley, Lindsey, Natalia, Karlie, Lisa, Heather, Jennifer, Amanda, Sandra, Ella, Madison, and Paisley.

The family requests no flower or other expressions of sympathy.

Ardella M. Steffen

Ardella M. Steffen, 98, of New Vienna, Iowa, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 8 – 10 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, Iowa.

Funeral Services will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery in New Vienna, Iowa. Rev. Hung Le will officiate.

Ardella was born on September 2, 1927, in Farley, Iowa, daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth (Nadermann) Steffen.

Ardella was a faith filled woman who cared for all those she met. She enjoyed gardening, canning, quilting, and cooking for all her friends and neighbors. She enjoyed good conversation on her porch with those in New Vienna.

Survivors include nieces and nephews; and several neighbors and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Loretta (Victor) Weyer, Calista, Fred, Alphonse, Leo (Helen) and Ambrose Steffen.

The family would like to thank the staff at MercyOne Senior Care for the kind care over the years.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Rose M. Cosgrove

Rose Marie Cosgrove, 91, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on May 4, 2026 at Stonehill Health Center,  surrounded by the love of her children.

Friends and family may call from 2 pm to 5 pm on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, May 11, 2026 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.  Visitation will be held at the Church, beginning at 9:00 am until 9:45 am.

Rose, the daughter of Swiss immigrants, was born on May 2, 1935 to William, Sr. and Gertrude (Tannler) Meier, in Darlington, WI.  She graduated with honors from Darlington High School, Class of 1953.  She was united in marriage to Ed Cosgrove on October 13, 1973, blending two families.

Rose was a very well-known and successful realtor for 38 years, ending her real estate career at ReMax Advantage Realty in Dubuque.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Ramona Vincent of Apple River, IL, Renee Farrey of Dubuque, IA, Rodney (Janet) Farrey of Dubuque, IA, Robyn (Allen Brown) Farrey of Bellingham, WA, Mike (Connie) Cosgrove of Dubuque, IA and Mark Cosgrove; grandchildren, Brandon (Amber) Stadel, Barret (Candace) Stadel, Matt Farrey, Greg (Thais) Farrey, David (Karina) Farrey and Michael (Sarah) Farrey; Patrick Cosgrove and Ryan (Kate) Cosgrove, Benjamin Cosgrove and Lara (Alex) Fowler;  her great grandchildren, Isaac, Delanie and Addison Wright, Alexis and Carter Stadel, Ana Clara, Sophie and Ella Farrey, Rosalie, Lily and Bear Farrey, Malakai Farrey, great granddaughter Farrey arriving in July, Jack and Joel Cosgrove, Allegra and Madeline Cosgrove and Lydia Fowler; siblings:  Shirley (Larry) Bowden, Bill (Paula) Meier, Greg (Sue) Meier, brother-in-law, Bernie (Rosie) Hayek, sister-in-law, Rosemary Moorhead,  along with many nieces, nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ed, her sons-in-laws, Rudy Trabanino and Bill Vincent and sisters, Ruth Meier Williams and Arlene Meier Hayek.

Memorials may be given Hospice of Dubuque and/or Stonehill Health Center.

The family would like to extend a very heartfelt thanks to all who gave our mother love, friendship, care and support, with special recognition to Dr. Caceres, Judy Meyer, Pat Smith, Penny Veach, Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Health Center.

Michael Knapp

Michael Knapp, 72, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center after courageously fighting a seven-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A wake service will be held prior to the visitation at 3:45 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection with Very Rev. Phillip Gibbs officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Mike was born on April 20, 1954, in Bernard, Iowa, to William P. Knapp and Mary J. (Federspiel) Knapp-Manternach. He was a 1972 graduate of Western Dubuque High School. He married Joan M. Fangmann on July 3, 1976. Although they later parted ways, Mike and Joan remained good friends.

While working on the family farm, Mike developed a strong work ethic and acquired a variety of skills that would help in his daily life. Early on, he worked at Kucklers in Monticello, Iowa as well as John Deere and Jeld-Wen in Dubuque before joining the Air Force Reserves. After the Air Force, Mike began his career with the United States Post Office in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. He eventually made his was to the Galena Post Office where he delivered mail until retirement.

Mike was hardworking, energetic and determined. When he set his mind to something, he worked hard to achieve it. This proved true during his time as a runner. Running was his passion. Having run over 120 races, his most memorable race may have been the Boston Marathon where he ran his best time. Above all, Mike loved spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandkids. He’d often say, “There’s nothing like being a grandpa!” Whether it was fervently cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs, enjoying a meal and sometimes a cocktail (or two), or sitting around a campfire, it was the people he was with in those moments that he kept close to his heart. He loved being with people and seemed to make friends wherever he went, likely engaging in some shenanigans along the way. Mike always knew how to have fun! While he has finished the race here on earth, the pain of missing him is eased knowing he has crossed the finish line and has won the award of eternal rest in Heaven.

Those left to honor his memory are Mike’s children, Stacey (Mike) Vorwald of Peosta, Iowa, Kevin (Melanie) Knapp of Lake Zurich, Illinois and their mother, Joan Knapp of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Owen, Robyn, Olivia, Cole, Adalynn, Ella, and Stella; six siblings, Rick (Mary) Knapp of Asbury, Iowa, Kayla (Mike) Melloy of Coralville, Iowa, Kenny (Kim) Knapp of Fayette, Iowa, Tom (Al Martin) of Miami, Florida, Lori Lust of Estero, Florida, and Beth (Tom) Duccini of Dubuque, Iowa; many cousins, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary and his step-father, Orland “Bub” Manternach.

The family of Mike would like to express immense gratitude to Dr. Carr and his team at Mayo Clinic in Rochester for their care and support during this seven-year journey. As a result, he was able to meet two more grandchildren, attend countless sporting events, run another race, and frequently dine at his favorite restaurants, undoubtedly enjoying a slice of pie with each visit. We’d also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Hospice of Dubuque team, with a special thank you to Buffy for her care and compassion during this very difficult time.