Obituaries Archive

Nancy H. Maury

Nancy Hope (Neises) Maury passed quietly in her home on May 28th, 2025, under the care of her husband of 45 years, Dennis Elbert Maury and her eldest daughter, Terry Lynn Holloway, both of Lancaster, WI.  To honor Nancy’s life, a graveside service will be held at St. Charles Cemetery in Cassville, WI, at a later date.

She is survived by her daughters,
Kelly Marie Holloway of Quincy, IL,
and Hope Lee (Rob) Breuer of Neillsville, WI,

her son,
John Joseph (Linda) Holloway of Gastonia, NC.

her sister,
Joan Neises, Lancaster, WI;

She is also survived by two nieces, a nephew, several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded by her parents, Joseph and Florence Neises of Cassville; her father and mother-in-law, Elbert (Ruth) Maury; her granddaughter, Trista Mumm; her great-granddaughter, Natalee Jo Mumm; and her brother-in-law, Dan Maury.

She was a loving mother and devoted wife.  She will be missed and never forgotten.

Online condolences for Nancy’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Sharon Loewen

Sharon “Bunny” Loewen, 88, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

Bunny was born on May 1, 1937, in Dubuque, IA to Leo and Loraine (Lyttle) Baumann. She attended Holy Trinity grade school and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in 1955, both in Dubuque. She Married Aloysius “Fritz” Loewen on June 29, 1957.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Company before she became a stay-at-home mom. She later became a part owner of the Yarn Over Shoppe before retiring. She enjoyed her daily trips to the casino with Fritz and her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Fritz, a daughter Lori (Randy) Childers; grandchildren, Lindsay (Jake) Majerus, Adam (Ashley) Childers; great-grandchildren, Landon and Reese Majerus, Aiden and Autumn Childers; sister Karen Nickolas; and nephew, Arnie Nickolas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Loraine Baumann; brothers-in-law, Arnold Nickolas, Don (Mary) Hocking, Carl (Anna Mae) Loewen, Maury (Shirley) Loewen, Clarence (Elaine) Loewen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Home Instead Healthcare and Jamie and Ann with Hospice of Dubuque.

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon, a beacon of pure love and joy, graced this earth for a brief but impactful eight months. Born in Iowa City, Iowa on September 4, 2024 to the loving arms of her parents, Roger Travis-Xavier and Denise Christina (Riniker) Bunyon, Connie was a cherished gift to all who knew her. She inherited not only her name from her beloved paternal grandmother Connie and her aunt Elvira but also their spirit of resilience and courage. She has two special birthday buddies, her Uncle Danny & Grandpa Alvin who were also born on Sept. 4th. On May 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family, Connie passed away in Iowa City, Iowa, due to complications from Trisomy 18.

From the moment of her birth, brought immeasurable happiness to her family. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she met each day with strength and determination, teaching those around her the true meaning of perseverance.

Connie’s parents, Roger and Denise, along with her extended family, cherished every moment spent with her. She was a constant reminder of the preciousness of life and the bonds that tie us together.

Connie is survived by her parents, Roger and Denise Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Andre, Sadie, and Elizabeth Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA, and Ishmael, Isaiah, Xavier, Roger II, and Tre Bunyon of CO; maternal grandmother, Martha Riniker of Maquoketa, IA; maternal great aunt Elvira (Fred) Donovan of DeWitt, IA. Maternal Uncle Danny (Jenny Wisco) Riniker of Maquoketa, IA, Paternal aunt Theresa (Larry) Aragon-Patrick, Ricki Morris, Becky Aragon all of Colorado, Paternal Uncles Vince (Kayleen) Aragon of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Clayton “June Bug” Bunyon of Colorado. Uncle Bob and Uncle Vern of Colorado. And many cousins and very special loved ones.

She was preceded in death by a sister Edna Ann Bunyon, a great grandmother Edna Doty, a grandma Connie Whitley, a grandpa Keith Wilson, a grandpa Clayton Bunyon, an uncle Kenny and several other family members.

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

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

Garth G. Meyer

Garth G. Meyer, 70 of Dubuque passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025.  There will be a Celebration of Garth’s life held from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Garth was born December 8, 1954, the fourth son of Louis and Vanita (Fennawald) Meyer. After graduating from Wahlert High School in 1973, he studied auto mechanics, then changed careers and completed LPN school and was employed in health care and nursing for over thirty years.

He had a lifelong interest in fitness and sports.

Through those many endeavors he cultivated loyal friendships and shared interests that have lasted more than half a century, starting with elementary school and including those he met at Windsor Park and most recently at Ecumenical Towers.

Having dealt with juvenile diabetes since age 11, he knew the struggles of lifelong health challenges and met this recent development of lymphoma with courage and positivity: both at UIHC and until he succumbed at Genesis Specialty Hospital in Davenport.

Although he will be sadly missed, those who knew him will have unforgettable memories to bring a smile of remembrance.

Survivors include his brother, Lance (Lenore) Meyer, and nephews Ry and Evan.

Preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Rick and Scot Meyer, and a nephew Kurt.

Cards and memorials in Garth’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Garth Meyer Family.

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

Betty M. Dryer

Betty Madeline Dryer, 96, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 24, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Friends and family may visit from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Charlie Tharp officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

Betty was born on March 30, 1929, in Independence, Iowa, she was the daughter of Raymond and Pearl Postel. She was united in marriage to Louis J. Dryer on January 17, 1949. She worked at the Independence Mental Health Institute, the Dubuque Packing Co., Bethany Home, and as a bartender. Betty was a member of the Betty Boop Club, Dubuque Fellowship Club, and Attitude Adjustment.

The family is so proud of Betty for going to treatment and joining the AA attitude adjustment group 25 years ago. She received and was very proud of her 25-year chip. Betty was a people person and everyone who knew her loved her. She enjoyed playing euchre, bingo, attending family gatherings, and going on picnics for AA.

Betty is survived by her children Debra Levins, Cindy Dryer, and Rick (Shelly) Dryer, daughter-in-law Rosanne Dryer, 18 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son Roger Dryer, infant daughter Donna Jean, grandchildren Michael, Clarence, and Little Betty Levins, son-in-law Melvin Levins, daughter-in-law Debbie Dryer, and 12 siblings.

In lieu of flowers, a Betty Dryer memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to Kim, Betty’s roommate at Dubuque Specialty Care, who always gave mom amazing love and care. Thank you also to Care Initiatives Hospice.

Richard Huseman

Richard Huseman, 92, of Dubuque, passed away May 25, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:30-11:45a.m., Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 12:00p.m., with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Richard was born on September 8, 1932, to Carl and Gladys (Boyce) Husemann in Dubuque, IA.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School where he excelled as an athlete on both the football and basketball team.

He was united in marriage to Rose (Doyle) Huseman on June 28, 1952, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. The two shared 72 wonderful years together.

He was a co-owner of Huseman and Husemann Cement Business. He also owned and operated Bell’s Tap before starting his longtime career as a supervisor with John Deere. He enjoyed 40 years of retirement from John Deere.

In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, bowling, and fishing. He was a member of the Mississippi Moon Bar bowling team. He particularly enjoyed catfishing, but Rich always had to be the one to clean them! Richard also enjoyed cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rose; children, Jane (John) Kiefer of Dubuque, Kay (Al) Muller of Cassville, WI, Cindy Strub of Dubuque, Rich Jr. (Judy) Huseman of Davenport, IA, Mary (Mike) Oldham of Dubuque, and Cheri (fiancé Troy Moore) Cochran of Dubuque; 13 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers, Raymond Husemann, and Vern (Donna) Husemann.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Donald Husemann, Adele Husemann; sons-in-law, Tim Strub, and Jacky Cochran.

A Richard Huseman Memorial Fund has been established.

Richard’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to the wonderful and caring staff at Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

Shirley M. Selle-Webster

Shirley M. Selle-Webster, 89, of Galena, Illinois, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on May 23, 2025, at the Galena Senior Care Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral home service will be held at 10:30 a.m. with burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Shirley was born on December 1st, 1935, to Thomas and Esther (Rokusek) Wilkins. She married Horace Selle, Jr. in Dubuque, Iowa. He proceeded her in death. Shirley later married Howard Webster of Galena, Illinois.

Shirley retired from AY McDonald. She was on the board of AY Credit Union and on the AY women’s bowling team. Shirley enjoyed bowling, karaoke, auctions and the casino. She was an at home crafter and built doll houses in her younger years. She cherished her weekly chats with her granddaughter Jamie—they were the highlight of her week. Her face lit up with joy whenever she saw pictures of her great-granddaughters.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Katie) Selle, Thomas (Peggy) Selle, Wayne (Tina) Webster, and Gary (Angie Heidenreich) Webster; 18 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Esther; her husbands, Horace Selle, Jr. and Howard Webster; her siblings, Robert Wilkins and Joan Hintgen; daughters, June Selle-Schissel and Marsha Webster-Broshous.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Midwest Senior Care Facility in Galena, Il., with a special thank you to Laura, Angie and Janet. We would also like to thank Jessica of Hospice of Dubuque for her care. A special thank you to Mike and Amy O’Neill for their care and companionship.

Doris M. O’Neill

Doris M. O’Neill, 100, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 25, 2025, at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 30th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., with a wake service at 6:30 p.m. Additional visitation will be held Saturday after 9:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Doris was born on June 29th, 1924, in Glen Haven, WI., the daughter of Bernard and Cecelia (Walz) Ertel. She attended Bayless Business School in Dubuque, where she met the love of her life, Leo O’Neill. Leo and Doris were married on June 1st, 1946, in Glen Haven. Doris was mostly a homemaker but had also worked at Xavier Hospital and Stonehill Care Center.

Doris belonged to St. Patrick’s Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters, a Girl Scout Leader at St. Patrick’s, Operation Friendship, tutored students at Comiskey Park, and was a part of the Broadway Neighborhood Association. She enjoyed feeding birds, gardening, camping, vacations, and road trips. Her caramel apples were legendary that she passed out on Trick or Treat to the neighborhood kids. Mom and dad helped start the Wednesday night meal at St. Pat’s.

She enjoyed being a grandmother and attending all the kids activities. For the past 30 years she has had a very special relationship with the Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell. Their friendship grew after meeting in Branson. Daniel sang her favorite song to her just last November after he told the audience she was 100 years old and still traveled to Branson with her kids to see him.

Doris is survived by her children Rick O’Neill of Dubuque, Iowa, Mary Kershner of Denver, Colorado, Peggy Howard of Dubuque, Iowa, Terry “Darby” (Nancy) O’Neill of Aurora, Colorado, Jane (Dave) Vilbrandt of Janeville, Wisconsin, Kevin (Kathy) O’Neill of Kirkland, Washington, and a son-in-law John Meyer of Dubuque, Iowa.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Heather (Bobby) Jungblut, Katie (Eric) Mottet, Wendy (Wes Peterson) McKernan, Lisa (Nick) Donarski, Scott (Tessa) Howard, Patrick Meyer, Jennifer Meyer, Sara Meyer, Scott (Ashley) Vilbrandt, Mark (Angela) Vilbrandt, Kevin (Carla) Vilbrandt, Brady (Brittney) O’Neill, Brian (Sammy) O’Neill, Megan Empson, Molly (Ben) Parker, Katie (Cory) Heinzerling, Jamie (Connor) Smith, Rachel (Matt) Nilsson, Corey (Celia) O’Neill; 34 great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; her sister Phyllis Ertz; sister-in-law Ruth Ertel.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband Leo, daughter Eileen Meyer, sons-in-law Steve Howard and Bryan Kershner, grandson-in-law Rob McKernan, sister Verna Fralick, brother Patrick Ertel, sisters-in-law Elaine O’Neill and Carilee Salwolke and brothers-in-law Floyd Fralick, Albert Ertz, Bill O’Neill, Bob O’Neill and Jim O’Neill.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be donating money to her favorite charities.

The family would like to thank their sister Mary for using her nursing skills to help care for mom. They especially want to thank their brother Rick for being so devoted to mom and treating her with so much love and tenderness his whole life. He and mom were “Special Roommates”! They also would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Cao for their care.

Sue McGinnis

Sue “Susie” (Davis) McGinnis, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 25, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care following a long-fought battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

There will be a graveside service at Mount Calvary in Dubuque on Saturday, May 31 at 10:00 AM and a celebration of life at the Eagle’s Club on Century Drive in Dubuque on Saturday, May 31 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Tri-State Cremation Center is charge of the arrangements.

Sue was born November 26, 1949, in Dubuque, the daughter of Lucille and John Davis. She graduated from the Visitation Academy. On June 5, 1971, she married Michael McGinnis at the Church of the Nativity, and they spent 54 years together. After a childhood diagnosis of polio, Sue fought hard to be independent and successful in her life and managed her challenges with grace and persistence.

In her career, Sue was employed at Flexsteel Industries and Herbst Upholstery, but her greatest professional accolade was owning and operating Sue’s Sewing and Upholstery. Sue was a brilliant upholsterer whose work can be found in countless homes and businesses. Sue was a fan of the Hawkeyes and supported the dirt-track racing dreams of her husband. She fiercely loved her family and her pets and spent countless hours with her grandchildren. Sue had a big heart and supported people and organizations in any way that she could. She loved ice cream, caramel frappes, and crocheting—especially baby blankets.

Sue is survived by her husband, Michael, of Dubuque; her daughter Amanda (Scott) Schemmel of Dubuque, their children Kalyn (Dalton Dietz) and Dylan (Reese Cromwell) and granddaughter Macie; her daughter Angela Weig (Jason Kressin) of Rock, MI and her children Carolyn (Gunnar Harwick) and Davin; her daughter Amy (Jeffrey) Haverland of Peosta, Iowa and their children Jack (Catie Brosious) and Anna (Connor Maiers); her daughter Michelle (Cale Enabnit) McGinnis of Manchester, Iowa and her children Keylee and Ava; her sister Janet Tracy of Virginia; her brother Jay (Sue) Davis of Dubuque; her brother Michael (Laurel) Davis of Las Vegas; her dog Kozy; and many nieces and nephews and extended family members.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents and twin sons, John and Leo and sister Pat Kelly.

The family would like to thank Dr. Loetscher, Care Initiatives Hospice and Dubuque Specialty Care for their care and compassion throughout the past few years.

In celebration of mom’s love for the Hawkeyes, please wear your black and gold on Saturday.

Gregory L. Schmitz

Gregory LaVern Schmitz, 66, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota on May 25, 2025.

Greg was born on November 16, 1958, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, to LaVern and Lillian (Sudmeier) Schmitz. He received his early education at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Maquoketa, Iowa.

On March 24, 1979, Greg married Roxanne Williamson at the Catholic Church in Lost Nation. Together they raised three children: Marsha, Mitch, and Kristin.

Greg’s strong work ethic was evident from a young age. He began working for Sacred Heart Catholic Church, mowing the cemetery grounds, and also working at the Derby. Over the years, he took on many roles, most notably his 20-year tenure as Ron Yeager’s trusted farmhand, driving semi for Farmer’s Supply Center in Delmar, and later, owning and operating Schmitz Trucking. Greg was a true jack-of-all-trades—there wasn’t much he couldn’t fix. Those who knew him will remember his unwavering work ethic, his quick wit, and his knack for pulling off a good prank. He was, in the best way, “always full of it!”

Greg is survived by his girlfriend, Rae Simonin of Baldwin; his children: Stacey (Jacob) Reuter of Maquoketa, Marsha (Cory) Simonson of Maquoketa, Mitch (Anna) Schmitz of Lost Nation, and Kristin (Ara) Bowman of Maquoketa; and his grandchildren: Breanna, Braden, Lexy, Jace, Allie, Dalton, Charli, and Hugh. He is also survived by his siblings: Douglas (Marion) Schmitz, Marlene (Thomas) Bendixen, Dianne Fuller, William (Denise) Schmitz, and Denise (Jeff) Swanson; brother-in-law, Donald Buck; sister-in-law, Theresa Franck; many nieces and nephews; and an honorary son, Josh Kaczinski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Lillian Schmitz; his siblings, Sharon Buck and Ervin Schmitz; his niece, Wendy Buck; and his beloved dog, Bella.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many healthcare professionals who cared for Greg over the years, especially Dr. John Whalen and his dedicated team at Tri-State Dialysis in Dubuque, Iowa.

A special thank you goes to Greg’s kidney donor, Scott Perkins. Scott’s extraordinary gift gave Greg an additional 11 years—a gift of time that allowed him to create countless more memories with loved ones and welcome a few more grandchildren into the world.

In his final act of generosity, Greg gave the gift of life through organ donation. His selfless decision continues to make a profound impact on the lives of others, a legacy that reflects the giving spirit he carried throughout his life.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 P.M., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. until service time.  Cremation will follow the services.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gregory L. “Greg” Schmitz memorial fund has been established.

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

Earl J. Ruden

Earl John Ruden passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at 8:51 AM at Accura HealthCare Center (formerly Shady Rest) in Cascade, IA.

Private funeral services are being arranged and held by Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, IA, officiated by Rev. Christopher Podhajsky, followed by a private service and burial at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Dyersville, IA.

Earl was born on October 22nd, 1948, son of Nick and Clara (Fangmann) Ruden.  He grew up on the Ruden family farm west of Dyersville, later graduated from Xavier High School in Dyersville and worked at Spahn & Rose Lumber in Dyersville, while also helping on the farm during his youth and young adult years.  He took over operations and ownership of his dad’s farm in 1979 and married Karen Hildebrand on October 10th, 1987, at St. Peter & Paul Church in Petersburg.  Together, they had one son, Kyle Earl, on August 9, 1990.  Earl enjoyed his family and being a dad to Kyle, teaching him about farming and life skills.  He took his farming seriously but enjoyed talking (and joking around) with any others that would listen.  He suffered a massive stroke in 2008, which left him unable to come home and lived at Accura HealthCare since then.  There he lived with the staff that cared for him greatly and showed them the man he was by greeting them with “Hey, Hey, Hey” or handshakes and even hugs.  He enjoyed listening to classic country music, as well as his interests in classic cars and IH tractors.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Karen L. Ruden of Dubuque, IA, son Kyle (Amanda)Ruden of Blanchardville, WI, sister Joan Kennedy of Dyersville, IA, sister-in-law Linda Ruden of Dubuque, IA, brother-in-law Mike (Lou) Hildebrand of Rockford, IL.  Two nieces; Gayle (Kevin) Barkema of Conrad, IA, and Nancy (Tom) Griffin of Houston, TX, and one nephew Randy (Nikki) Ruden of Osseo, MN and many grand nieces and nephews.

Earl was preceded in death by his father, Nick Ruden (1980), mother, Clara Ruden (1990), father-in-law William Hildebrand (1993), mother-in-law Loretta (Egloff) Hildebrand (1984), brother Dennis Ruden (2001), brother-in-law Vernon Kennedy (2013), nephew Tom (Vicky) Kennedy (2019) and his son Bradley M. Kennedy (2024).

The family would like to thank the staff at Accura HealthCare of Cascade for their many years of great care to Earl, as well as Hospice of Dubuque up until his passing.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

James M. Hayes

James M. “Jim” Hayes age 58, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 23, 2025, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family Celebration of Life is being held.  Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on January 31, 1967, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Gerald and Joanne (Rossman) Hayes.  He enjoyed each day he was given and made the most out of the life he had.  Jim was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and eventually found his way into the carpentry trade.  He invested the majority of his career with Callahan Construction, but also worked at Wickes Lumber Company and Anderson Window and Door for a time.  Jim made many friends over the years and always found time to relax when the workday was done.

Jim was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and never missed a game if it was possible.  He also spent countless hours working on his baseball cap collection over the years and found great joy when his newest acquisition made it into the rotation.  He possessed an outgoing spirit and combined with his friends disposition; it was difficult not to be friends with Jim.  Sadly, he has been called home much too soon for those who knew and loved him to contend with.  His legacy of loving life and embracing the day will surely live on in the memories of his family and friends.  Thank you, Jim, for never attempting to be someone other than yourself and may you find peace from your earthly battles today as we wait patiently to see your smiling face once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his adored daughter,
Kayla (Nick) Bechen, Dubuque, IA;

his beautiful newborn grandson,
Theo Bechen, Dubuque, IA;’

his siblings,
Michael (Patricia) Hayes, Dubuque, IA,
Karen Kutsch, Dubuque, IA,
and Lynn (Tom) Dotterweich, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Michael Avenarius, Dubuque, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Penny Koelher, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his companion of 20 years, Malia West; and his siblings, Deb Avenarius, Jerry Hayes, Jeff Hayes, and Dave Hayes.

Jim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff in the Finley Hospital ICU for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Dianne M. Blaser

Dianne M. Blaser, 68, of Dubuque, died Saturday, May 24, 2025, at her home in Dubuque.

Per Dianne’s wishes, no services will be held.

Dianne was born June 21, 1956, in Oelwein, IA. At three months old, Dianne was adopted by Vernon and Alvera (Burlege) Blaser.

Dianne worked at Central Animal Hospital for 16 years as a dog groomer. She later opened her own grooming company.

Dianne had a generous spirit, dedicating herself to caring for both her mother and her aunt, Alberta. She had a deep love for dogs, and treated them as cherished members of her family. She was a gifted singer and served as the lead vocalist for several local bands, often performing at weddings and community events. Dianne was also an active member of the Dubuque Eagles Club, where she proudly served as the past president for multiple years.

She will be missed by her close friends, Dylan and Cassie Dessel, and their children, Autumn, Harper, and Josh. Her heath struggles are over, may she rest in peace.

Survivors include her brother, Richard (Sue) Blaser of Dubuque; nephews and niece, Rick, John, and Kayla Blaser, Mike Smothers, Lance Smothers; cousins, Dan Keyes and Bob Roth; and her loving companion, TJ.

Dianne was preceded in death by her parents; Doris Keyes; Art and Alberta Roth; Jerry Roth; and several pets.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

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

Mary J. Sweeney

Mary Jean Sweeney, 68 of Dubuque Iowa, passed away peacefully at Mercy Medical Center Friday, May 23, 2025.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross with funeral service to commence at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Mary was born March 7, 1957, in Dubuque IA, the daughter of Edgar and Helen Sweeney. She grew up on a small farm in Holy Cross IA surrounded in love with her many brothers and sisters. She went on to live in various group homes in Dubuque and attending ARC. Her most recent move was to Sunnycrest Manor where her days were filled with fun and learning with her many friends and staff. Her favorite pastime was watching CHIPS and enjoying a pop.

Mary Jean is survived by her brothers and sisters: Roger (Donna), Terry (Maryann), Sheila (John), Sharon (John), Tim (Linda), Jan (Cindy), Colleen (Don), Pat (Stacy), Lisa (Scott). She was a joy to her family, and we will miss her terribly.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Helen Sweeney; Stepfather, Clete Osterhaus; sister, Kathleen Shores; and many other extended family members.

Our family would like to extend a thank you to ARC for the many years of care they gave Mary. And a special thank you to all the staff at Sunnycrest Manor for the love and compassion she was given during her time there. She truly lived her best life at Sunnycrest!

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family. Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Mark G. Hildebrand

Mark G. Hildebrand, 61 of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away Friday, May 23, 2025, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Friday May 30, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Saturday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday May 31, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa, with burial following in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Mark was born February 29, 1964, in Holy Cross, Iowa, son of Robert and Helen (Theisen) Hildebrand. He graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1982 and pursued a career as a diesel mechanic and truck driver. Throughout his life, Mark enjoyed serving the community and spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include children: Robert (Lindsey Engelken) Hildebrand and future grandchild of Dyersville, IA, Carter Hildebrand of Dyersville, IA; Mother: Helen Hildebrand of Holy Cross, IA; siblings: Laurie (Pat) Steffensmeier and Mike (Mindy) Hildebrand of Dyersville, IA; Mother of his children: Julie Hildebrand (Dan Trenkamp) of Hopkinton, IA.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and mother in-law, Patricia Feldman.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneral.com.