Obituaries Archive

Ronald Brauhn

Ronald “Downtown Ronnie Brown” Brauhn, 58, of Dubuque, passed away on May 20, 2024 at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Private family services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Ronald was born on June 26, 1965 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Rodger and Leah (Janzen) Brauhn. He graduated from East Dubuque High School. Ronnie was a jack-of-all-trades and would help anyone with anything.

He is survived by his siblings Linda (Zach) Lanham, Peg (Kenny) Lackey, Charlotte (Ronnie) Kilburg, and Richard (Sandy) Brauhn, nieces and nephews Robert Lanham, Andi Chapman, Becca McInnish, Billie Jo Myers, Jennifer Manders, Chris Olszewki, and Samantha Pearson, as well as many great friends who were like family to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother-in-law Bill Roling, and nephews Jason Kilburg and Justin Kilburg.

The family would like to thank all of Ronnie’s friends for helping him throughout his life. Thank you for helping our family as well. We appreciate you all for your friendship to Ronnie.

Gail L. Holder

Gail Lorraine Holder, 77, of Key West, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Friends and family may visit Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque IA. A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Gail was born on April 18, 1947, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, to Irene (Price) Oneyear and Sylvan Keehner. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1965.

In 1966, Gail married Dave W. Holder. Together, they raised their four children on the family hog farm, which Gail proudly managed until they parted in 1998. From there she worked for TSA at the Dubuque Regional Airport, where she served as the supervisor, later retiring in 2012. She also worked at Hardees and Hatches in Dubuque.

Gail was one of the biggest Packers fans and enjoyed watching the games with her son and grandkids. You’d often find her cozied up in her giant green chair watching her favorite TV shows or a good movie.  She had a warm and infectious laugh and smile, that instantly made life better. Gails door was always open when you needed a friend, and many loved her for that.

Those left to celebrate Gail’s life are her children, Terry (John) Martin, Tammy Folmer, Todd (Tammy) Holder, and Tracey Holder; her eight grandchildren, Ashley (Travis)Holman, Amanda, Megan(Jerren) Graber & Taylor Holder, Zachery (Dan) & Colbey Holder and Joshua (Alexis) & Jaimee Holder; her siblings, Lynn (Bob) Lochner and Steve (Jane) Oneyear; Many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Gail had several dear friends she called family, especially the Carol Lattner family, Karen & Karen.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Mike (Patty) Oneyear, her Grandpa & Grandma Price and a half-sister Cheryl (Jim) Donchez.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to all her friends that took the time to laugh and visit with Mom, over the past couple years, it meant the world to her. And to Haley & Abbey & Lisa, her nurses at Mercy hospital, for their care & compassion during her last days.

Susan K. Rowland

Susan K. (Garrett) Rowland, 69, of Dubuque passed away at home on Wednesday May 15, 2024.

No service will be held at this time. A celebration of life will be announced. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd Dubuque IA. is assisting the family.

Susan was born April 5, 1955, in Fort Dodge IA to Robert P. and Ilene (Dowling) Garrett.

She graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High School in 1974, and worked on and off as a CNA and Medical Assistant for 40 years in nursing homes in Fort Dodge and Algona IA.

Susan married David C. Rowland on December 5, 2002.

She enjoyed camping, spending time with family and friends, cooking, doing crafts, and was a huge lover of music that she impressed into the life of her children.

Susan is survived by her husband David C. Rowland; sons Jerrad R. Garrett, and Eric J. (Renee) Garrett; stepchildren C.J. Rowland and Cassie Rowland; grandchildren Abigail I. Garrett, Liam T. Garrett, Jessica M. Garrett, Brandon L. Makinson, Madelyn G. Garrett, Joshua R. Garrett; brother Robert Garrett Jr.; sister Pamela J Bouluare; sisters-in-law Cecelia Garrett, Theresa Garrett, Andrea Gann, Janet Evans, Darice Fickett, and Kim Conley.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers Terry L. Garrett and Jerry D. Garrett.

The family would like to express their gratitude for all the love and support from everyone that has reached out to us!

Joyce Freiburger

Joyce Freiburger, 64, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at her home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. A prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM.

To commemorate her incredible journey and to celebrate the love she spread, a Mass of Christian Burial for Joyce will be 10:30 am Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque. We invite all who knew her to join us in remembering a truly remarkable woman.

Joyce was born February 2, 1960, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Melvin “Boots” and Virginia “Trixie” (Ritt) Schmitt. Joyce grew up on a farm in Sherrill and made lots of memories with her siblings, cousins, and friends. She graduated from Hempstead High School in 1978 and went on to work at Pepsi Cola and the Copper Kettle. Joyce and Francis (Frank) were married on November 16, 1985, at St Peter and Paul Church in Sherrill, Iowa. They went on to have two children Jordan and Elizabeth (Ellie). Joyce enjoyed various jobs throughout her life like Medical Associates and Rite Hite, but always thrived working as a waitress and server. Joyce worked at Rhodys, the Dubuque Country Club, and most recently at the Moracco. Joyce also fed “the little darlings” as a lunch lady for Resurrection School and for the Dubuque Community School District.

Joyce truly was the hostess with the mostest on the job and at her home. Everyone that came to her house left with a full belly, smile, and a plate to-go. She was an exceptional cook and baker. Her freezer was full of homemade cookies, brownies, cake, and snacks ready for anytime someone would stop by. Joyce and Frank enjoyed traveling all throughout their marriage and made numerous friends during their trips. She loved to talk, shop, quilt, spend time with friends and family, and of course talk.

Joyce will fondly be remembered by those who knew her as having a Diet Pepsi in hand and a story to share.

Left to honor Joyce is her husband of 38 years, Frank; a son, Jordan of Dubuque; a daughter, Elizabeth “Ellie” Wintermote and her husband Mote of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Lucy and Violet Wintermote; one sister, Janice Freiburger of Peosta; two brothers, Dennis Schmitt and his wife Debbie, and David Schmitt, both of Sherrill; five sisters-in-law Crystal and friend Leddy of Sherrill, Mary Ann and her husband Joe Barker of Dyersville, Agnes Cannon of Manchester, Anne Freiburger of Ankeny, and Rose Freiburger of Austin, Texas; and three brothers-in law, Joe Freiburger, Tom Freiburger, Louis Freiburger and his wife Vicki, all of Manchester. Joyce will also be remembered by her numerous nieces and nephews.

Joyce is reunited in death with her parents, grandparents, in-laws Earl and Alice Freiburger of Manchester, her brother, Dale Schmitt, and brother-in-laws, John Freiburger and Dave Cannon.

Joyce’s family would like to thank the devoted caregivers and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and guidance, Dr. Mark Hermann and Tony Heiar of Dubuque Oncology for their expertise as well as Dr. Carlos Chan and Dr. Chandrikha at the University of Iowa. Joyce fought hard for two and a half years with your help.

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

Leo G. Walech

Leo G. Walech, 87, of Dubuque passed away peacefully Monday, May 20, 2024, surrounded by family.   Visitation will be from 4 to 6 pm Tuesday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 6:00 pm.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Wednesday at the Church of the Resurrection, followed by burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where military rites will be accorded.

Leo was born November 24, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Victor and Helen (Berwick) Walech. Leo was the only boy of the family and grew up surrounded by his sisters who he loved dearly.  As a young man, Leo attended St. Anthony’s Elementary School, and graduated from Loras Academy with the “illustrious” Class of 1955.  A few years after graduation Leo served in the US Army 1959- 1965.  From 1959-1961 he served as a medic in the 95th Medical Company, stationed in Germany. Following his military service, Leo returned to Dubuque, and followed in the footsteps of his father working at Caradco, before working at the Dubuque Packing Company for 40 years as part of the “smokehouse gang”.

Leo met the love of his life, Mary Jeanne Reilly and they were united in marriage at the Church of Nativity on October 21, 1972, and purchased their home on Hansel Dr.  Leo’s most important title, Dad, came as he and Mary Jeanne welcomed their three children Kathleen, Elizabeth and Jon, creating a very tight knit family.

In addition to his roles as husband and father, Leo was a very devoted son, brother, uncle and grandfather.  Family was extremely important to Leo, he became the favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, and he had a unique nickname for all. Although he didn’t have any official hobbies, he loved watching the Chicago Cubs and participating in any activity that involved family and friends, especially attending Jon’s football games as his biggest fan.  Leo’s favorite thing was enjoying a great “bull session” over a cup of coffee, especially with the guys in his “FOG” group.

Leo was thrilled to become a grandpa, and his grandsons, Victor and Nicholas, were a source of amazing pride.  You couldn’t visit Leo without hearing about Vic and Nic.  Leo also loved dogs and his best buddy was his “grand dog” Wrigley.  His children often joked that Leo was more excited to see Wrigley than anyone else.

Leo is survived by his wife, Mary Jeanne Walech of Dubuque; three children, Kathleen (Matt) Haas of Dubuque, Elizabeth (Sean) Johnson of Asbury, and Jon (Margo) Walech of Medina, MN; two grandchildren, Victor J. Walech and Nicholas H. Walech.

He is also survived by three siblings, Marie Hansel of Centralia, Betty Murphy of Dubuque, and Jan (Bill) Kueter of Durango; and many nieces and nephews.

Leo was preceded in death by a sister, Vickie Fischer and four brothers in law, Albert Fischer, Bob Hansel, Louis Murphy, and Tom Reilly.

Memorials may be made to the Leo Walech Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Palliative Care Unit as well as nurses, Tyler and Keri, at Compasus Hospice for their loving care.

Peggy A. Schaller

Peggy A. (Murphy) Schaller, 72, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 19, 2024 at home.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday May 25, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a time for sharing and closing prayers starting at noon.

Peggy was born on September 2, 1951 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Daniel and Marian (Boxliter) Murphy. She graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in Dubuque. She was united in marriage to Harris Schaller on July 26, 1969 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church. She worked as a CNA for twelve years, owned PJ’s Tap for eleven years, and bartended at Choppers.

Peggy loved playing euchre, shuffle board, and cribbage. She also loved spending time with her family, and she was a breast cancer survivor.

Peggy is survived by her husband Harris Schaller, sons Steve (Tricia) Schaller and Tom Schaller, sisters Gayle (Rich) Atkins and Sue (Ken Hanson) Saffran, grandchildren Maranda (Dustin) Bindert, Mason (Amber Dempsy) Schaller, Teisha (Nik) Gibson, Dillon (Linzy Knockel) Schaller, Samantha Schaller, eight great grandchildren (with one on the way), four sisters-in-law, and one brother-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Marian Murphy, father-in-law Clarence Schaller, brothers-in-law Donald Schaller, Terry Shaw, and Tom Frost and sisters-in-law Ellen Welp and Mary Avery.

A Peggy A. Schaller Memorial Fund has been established.

Thank you to all of our loved ones for all the love and support during this time.

Jane A. Smothers

Jane A. Smothers, age 82, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:31 a.m., on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To honor Jane’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Friday, May 24, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon Jim Koetz officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jane was born on October 10, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Peter and Marcella “Sally” (Sahm) Gasper.

Jane attended Holy Ghost Grade School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She met her future husband, Marvin Smothers, at the roller skating rink on the north end.  Jane and Marvin were married on February 3, 1962, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.  They celebrated 42 years together before he sadly passed away on May 24, 2004.  Jane was a hard worker and was employed with Maid Rite and Merrimac before going to work for Flexsteel Industries, retiring in 2004.  She was always active in her community and volunteered at Mercy Hospital for several years.  In her free time, Jane enjoyed bowling, going to Bingo, G56 was her favorite number, playing board games and card games, especially Rummikub and Euchre, and heading out for a little retail therapy.  She and Marvin also liked to try their luck at the dog track and casino.  Jane loved her family and time spent with the kids and grandkids brought her great joy.  She will be deeply missed!

Those left to cherish Jane’s memory include

3 children,
Craig (Pam Stotlar) Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Tracy (Jeff) Hirsch, Dubuque, IA
and Lori Manders, Sun Prairie, WI;

4 grandchildren,
Ryan Manders, Singapore,
Kyle (Megan) Manders, Dubuque, IA,
Amber (Adam Van Natta) Smothers, East Dubuque, IL
and Corey (Taryn) Stotlar, Dubuque, IA;

2 great-granddaughters,
Amelia and Eliza Manders;

her siblings,
Mary George,
Theresa (Floyd) Kuntz
and John “Jack” Gasper;

her in-laws,
Shirley Gasper and Eldon George;

several nieces and nephews;

and her beloved dog,
Chloe.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Marvin Smothers; a twin sister, Jean George; a brother, Matt Gasper; and her in-laws; Gayle (Bill) Kruser, Brenda (Delbert) Haxmeier, Eddie (Marlene) Smothers, Lonnie Smothers and Merle George.

Jane’s family would like to thank Dr. Ryan Stille, Dr. Dolehide and the nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque for their outstanding care.

Greeting cards and memorials in Jane’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jane Smothers Family.

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

Sharon A. Lowe

Sharon Ann Lowe, 72, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the Select Specialty Hospital in Davenport.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, May 24, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Sharon will be 10:30 am Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Jim Luksetich officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sharon was born November 14, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of William and Lorretta (Williams) Wittstock. On October 19, 1974, she married Paul A. Lowe at Cathedral of St. Raphael in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on March 11, 2015.

Sharon graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1969. After high school, Sharon worked as a paralegal for Iowa Legal Aid. She then worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for over 40 years where she retired as a Lead Parts Catalog Editor.

Sharon enjoyed crocheting, baking, and going to the casino. Most of all, her favorite was time spent with family, she was very involved in every aspect of their lives.

Survivors include her four children, Jennifer (Brian) Neises, Michelle (Tony) Zurcher, Jonathan (Cassie) Lowe, and Brian Lowe; ten grandchildren, Logan, Jesse, Peyton, Christian, Morgan, Carson, Audrey, Amelia, Alan, and Zelda; three siblings, Deanne (Joe) Roussel, David Wittstock, and Tim (Kim) Wittstock; brother-in-law, Nilus Lowe; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Sharon was preceded in death by her brother, Wayne Wittstock; sisters-in-law, Donna Wittstock and Fern Lowe; and two nephews, Jeff and Matthew Wittstock.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Neil J. Kramer

Neil J. Kramer, 61, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna with burial in St. Peter & Paul Cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Neil was born on November 20, 1962, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Gerald and Velma (Hullermann) Kramer.

He married Ellen Kruse on May 29, 1994.  Together they farmed and raised their family just north of Dyersville.

Neil was raised on the same family farm he bought in 1991. He farmed his entire life, offering a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Neil cared deeply about farming. He was a steward of the land and loved working with all of his livestock. In recent years, he enjoyed tinkering in his shop, fixing farm equipment and restoring tractors. He was an excellent farmer but an even better person. He was a loving husband and father, and the best Papa to his grandkids. Neil will be remembered for his laugh, his smile, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. May he inspire everyone who knew him to live a life filled with laughter, surrounded by all the people we hold near and dear to us.

Survivors include his wife, Ellen, children: Beth Mescher, Brian (Andrea) Kluesner, Craig (Amy) Kluesner, Keith (Danielle) Kluesner, Jenna (Nick) Freerks; grandchildren: Alexis and Grace Mescher, Leo and Ivy Kluesner, Vivian and Boone Kluesner; siblings: Jan (Ed) Day, Lynn (Steve) Galvin, Caril (Bruce) Clasen, Ellen (Jim) Funcke, Lee Ann (Mike) Gentry, Reyne (Don) Koopmann, Dean (Deb) Kramer, Phil (Jess) Kramer; in-laws: Barb (Marty) Pape, Sharon (Kerry) Ungs, Phyllis (Dave) Blech, Amy Kruse, Jill (Paul) Manternach, Lisa (Mike) Krapfl, Rob (Karla) Kruse, Dale Lenz, Bill Murray; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, John in 2010, parents-in-law, John and Donna Kruse, and a sister, Joyce Kramer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred as the family will establish a scholarship in Neil’s honor.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Jennie Mae Stull

Jennie Mae Stull, age 70, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:53 a.m., on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque.  In keeping with Jennie’s wishes there will not be a public service held at this time.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Jennie’s family.

Jennie was born on May 24, 1953, in Chicago, IL, daughter of Richard and Marie Stull.

Jennie graduated from Harland High School in Chicago, Class of 1971.  She worked as a custodian with the White Sox at Comisky Park and at the Community Discount Store as a cashier.  After moving to Dubuque Jennie started working at the Midway Hotel in the housekeeping department.  Jennie was with the love of her life, Phillip Roach, for 22 years.  They had a wonderful family and life together before he sadly passed away on June 17, 1997.  Jennie loved being outside, going for walks and talking to everyone she met along the way.  She also enjoyed quiet time at home watching TV.  Jennie’s family was everything to her, and you could always guarantee lots of laughs every time they were together!  Jennie was a great mom, grandma, sister and friend.  She will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Jennie’s memory include

her children,
Phillip Roach II, Macomb, IL,
Cherie Stull, Dubuque, IA,
Victoria Roach, Monticello, IA
and Shanette Roach, Chicago, IL;

18 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Robert Stull, Genevieve Gardner, Cleo Gardner, Marie Gardner and Marian Gardner;

and several nieces and nephews.

Jennie was preceded in death by her parents; her long time partner, Phillip Roach; a grandson, Maqwkone Jones; and 3 brothers, Rodney Stull, Richard Stull and Alonzo Stull.

Jennie’s family would like to thank all of their family and friends for their loving support!  Also a special thanks to the nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque, as well as Flora Carter, Jeannie and Keith Hall and Na’zeeya Moon, we appreciate everything you have done for us.

Ellen S. Welp

Ellen S. Welp, 79, of Dubuque passed away May 18, 2024, at Assisi Village with her sons by her side.

Visitation will be held Friday May 24, 2024, from 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will be held at 3:30 p.m. with Deacon Jim Luksetich officiating, entombment at Mount Olivet will follow.

Ellen was born September 10, 1944, in Dubuque to Clarence and Mildred “Millie” (Duffy) Schaller.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School class of 1962, and Dubuque Beauty Academy with Master of Cosmetology in December 1963. She worked as a bartender at the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino for 20+ years.

Ellen was an active member of St Patrick’s and St. Rapheal’s Cathedral both in Dubuque. She volunteered for many years for the Salvation Army. She loved playing bingo, shopping trips with the girls, going out to eat with her sons, and anything that involved time with family.

She is survived by her loving sons, Jeff (Kathy) Welp, and Doug Welp; grandchildren Jacob (Claudia) Welp, Emma (Adam) Welp and Molly Peebles; great-grandchildren Jonah Welp, and George Welp; siblings Harris Schaller, JoAnn Flossi, Laura Schaller, LeeAnn Frost, Kathy (Tom) Kelleher, Nancy Schaller, and Curtis (Renee) Schaller; sister-in-law Mary Krapfl.

Ellen is preceded in death by her husband Richard “Dick” Welp; daughter Amy Peebles; grandson Ryan Gorcowski; parents and stepmother Wanda Schaller; sibling Donald Schaller, Mary Avery, and Terry Shaw; siblings-in-law Gerald Welp, Ruth Theisen, Arnie Krapfl and Peggy Schaller.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to express a special thank you to her Assisi Village family and the staff at MercyOne ER and ICU and Hospice of Dubuque.

Toni L. Mulert

Toni L. Mulert, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Grinnell, IA, Decorah, IA, and Casa Grande, AZ, passed peacefully on May 16, 2024, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, while supported by her loving family.

Toni was born on April 5, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, to Donald C. and Sharlye (Woodward) Moes while her father was stationed in Europe during WWII.  She was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School class of 1961 and went on to earn her nursing degree from St. Joseph Mercy School of Nursing.  Toni was united in marriage to the love of her life, Donald Mulert, on September 4, 1965, at Nativity Catholic Church in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 58 wonderful years of marriage and three children, six grandchildren, and one great grandchild whom they’ve loved and nurtured for many years.  Toni committed her working life to serving others as a pediatric and geriatric nurse, where she assisted many with their recovery and even more with their transition to the next stage.   Toni’s heart was always focused on the well-being of those around her both at work and home; this reality was continually visible for all to witness.

Toni was always there to help others, not just in her nursing career, but by volunteering for community, church, and service organizations throughout her life. She was rarely idle in her life and was always working on a project. Toni was an avid crafter and enjoyed spending time creating new treasures for her home and for others. Her talents ranged from painting to quilting, cooking to cardmaking, gardening and writing of all types. She authored crafting books in the 1970’s, but more often created humorous poems to celebrate friends and family. Later in her life, Toni enjoyed family genealogy and spent countless hours researching and writing about her ancestry. This research informed a 2008 trip to Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands to tour the villages where many of Toni and Don’s ancestors originated.

Christmas was a special time for Toni.  She loved the holidays, and always had seasonal decorations out, but Christmas often resulted in an explosion of joy in each and every room in her home. She even had a special second full sized tree decorated for the grandchildren. Although she came from a small family, Toni embraced being part of the much larger Mulert clan. There were always kids of all ages in the house, including Don’s siblings and later friends of her own children that would sometimes stop just to visit with her. Her greatest joy in life was her family, immediate and extended, particularly her grandchildren. Although they often lived far away, she would plan activities to do with them months in advance so she could make the most of her time with them.

She had a special place in her heart for those that could give and take a good-natured ribbing. Toni always had those few friends with whom she traded barbs, inside jokes, and occasional pranks. She had a wicked streak, especially when playing cards, whether it was euchre, gin rummy, or poker. She was competitive, but also a patient coach when she was teaching tactics and strategy to her grandchildren. Toni shared a love of travel with Don throughout their lives, including countless family camping trips. Upon retirement, Toni and Don spent 6 years traveling the U.S. in their RV before they settled in Arizona.

Toni lives on in the memories of her loving husband,
Donald Mulert, Dubuque, IA;

her three children,
Heidi (Steve) Scherf, Pleasant Hill, IA,
Scott (Jeff Ohern) Mulert, Minneapolis, MN,
and Russ (Carrie) Mulert, Lexington, KY;

her six grandchildren,
Jacob (Megan) Mulert, Dan (Jocelyn) Mulert, Jenna (Dominic) Falsetti, Brian (Shelby Shanks) Mulert, Joseph Mulert, and Lucas Scherf;

her great-granddaughter,
Madison (Jacob/Megan), and a beautiful set of twins (Brian/Shelby) on their way this autumn;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Toni was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Steven Moes.

To honor Toni’s life, a Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 1870 St. Ambrose Street in Dubuque.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the church service.  Burial will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Toni’s family.

In lieu of flowers, a Toni L. Mulert memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

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

Richard A. Klemme

Richard A. “Rick” Klemme, 72 of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.  Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am, Friday, May 24, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273.  Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Thursday, May 23, 2024 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:30 am-10:30 am prior to Mass on Friday at the funeral home.

Cathy A. Weber

Cathy Ann Weber, 73, of Verona, WI, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away on May 18, 2024. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, Dubuque. A funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the funeral home, with burial to follow in Linwood Cemetery.

Cathy was born on June 7, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Loras E. Hartman and Doris M. Hartman (née Hutter). She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1968 and went on to earn two bachelor’s degrees: one in Social Work from the University of Dubuque in 1972 and another in Elementary Education from Clarke College in 1988. Cathy dedicated her career to children’s advocacy and education, serving as a substitute teacher for both the Dubuque Community School District and the Holy Family Catholic Schools. She also made significant contributions working with Head Start, demonstrating her commitment to early childhood education.

On August 30, 1975, Cathy married John R. Weber in Dubuque, IA. They shared a loving marriage until his passing on December 4, 2004.

Cathy is survived by her daughter, Rachael Weber of Verona, WI; granddaughter, Charlotte Mundschau of Verona, WI; her siblings, Joann (Jan) Lombardi of Dubuque, IA, Robert (Tina) Hartman of Reedsburg, WI, David (Karen) Hartman of O’Fallon, MO, and Carolyn (Andrew) Draus of Bellevue, IA; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John R. Weber, and her parents, Loras E. Hartman and Doris M. Hartman.

Cathy will be remembered for her dedication to education, her love for her family, and her unwavering spirit. Her legacy of kindness and commitment to others will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Janet L. Walker

Janet L. Walker, of East Dubuque, Ill., passed away at the age of 85 on Saturday, May 18, 2024, while surrounded by her loving family at home.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, Iowa.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery.

Janet was born on Feb. 17, 1939, in Montevideo, Minn., Janet moved to Illinois at a young age and went to high school in Galena, Ill.

In 1956, she married the love of her life, Lawrence Walker, at St. Mary’s Church, in Galena. She then moved with her husband to East Dubuque, where she spent much of her life as a devoted homemaker and mother.

Her unwavering love for her family was only matched by her equally unshakable faith in God. As a Jehovah’s Witness, Janet spent nearly 50 years both regularly studying the Bible and teaching it to those that showed interest. When she wasn’t practicing her faith, Janet loved to spend her time gardening, reading, boating, playing Euchre and spending time with friends and family. She will be remembered for her contagious smile, joyful sense of humor, hospitality, generosity and genuine concern for both family and strangers.

She is survived by those who will cherish her memory, her husband of 68 years, Lawrence Walker; her children: Mary Ann (Dave) Corpstein of Dubuque, Johnnie (Cindy) Walker of Dubuque, Patti (Mike) Kruse of Dubuque, Jerry (Theresa) Walker of East Dubuque, Diane (Greg) Luerkens of Marion, Iowa, Janie (Dave) Sendt of East Dubuque and Tony (Kim) Walker of Dubuque; 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; her brother, Wayne True of Rock Island, Illinois; sister, Kathy True of Maquoketa, Iowa; and sister-in-law, Ann Schute, Menominee, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Jeanette True, mother- and father-in-law, James and Anna Walker, brothers, Roger and Dale True, sister- and brother-in-law, Mary and Donald Leifker, brothers-in-law, Jim Walker and Art Schute, and infant daughter, Susan.

Janet’s family would like to offer a special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque.