Sarah Gieselman, 95, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025.

In keeping with her wishes, no public services will be held.

Sarah was born on December 13, 1929, to Heiman and Dena (Natte) VanderBrink in Chandler, MN.

She was united in marriage to Edward “Ed” Gieselman on October 28, 1953, in Slayton, MN. The two of them shared 47 years together before his passing on May 5, 2000.

Sarah lived most of her life in Minnesota until moving to Dubuque in 2000 following her husband’s death. She enjoyed the last 20 years residing at Stonehill Communities.

She is survived by her children, Lorie (Brian) Roux of Stillwater, MN, and Janet (Craig Ryan) Anderson of Vacaville, CA, and son-in-law, Philip Oftedahl; grandchildren, Mark (Melissa) Oftedahl, Ryan (Abby) Oftedahl, Mindy Wiley, Ashley (Tyler) Ogorek, Jonathan (fiancée Gabriella Eicher) Roux, and Danielle Anderson. Also surviving are many great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Sarah is also survived by her siblings, Bertha Carranza, Averdena Kokot, and John VanderBrink.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter JoAnn Oftedahl, and siblings, Bill VanderBrink, Audrey VanderBrink, Chris VanderBrink, Cornie VanderBrink, and Gertrude VanderBrink.

Sarah’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to the wonderful nursing staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.