Francis McAndrew

Francis Paul McAndrew, 92, of Wyoming, died Thursday, April 19, 2018, at Unity Point St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. Per his wishes there will be no services. Entrusted with the arrangements is Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.  

Francis was born May 23, 1925, in Lost Nation, Iowa, the son of Francis and Mary (Noring) McAndrew. He graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1942. After graduation he joined the United States Marine Corps.  While at Camp Pendleton, he played the saxophone in the Marine Corps Band. Francis participated in the Consolidation of the Northern Solomon Islands and the Philippine Campaign. He was honorably discharged in 1945. 

Francis was employed as a draftsman at Howard Green Engineering in Cedar Rapids. He proudly retired in 1989 after many years of service.  

Francis enjoyed repairing and fabricating farm equipment with his brother and nephews. 

He is survived by a sister, Jean Eganhouse of Monmouth, Iowa; sister-in-law, Joyce McAndrew of Maquoketa, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill, sister Mary Ann Schwager, niece Maurna McAndrew, infant niece Judith Schwager, and his special friend, Irene.  

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under “Obituaries.”

Raymond Potter

Raymond Laverne Potter, 81, of Riverside, Texas, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017, at home surrounded by his family. 

Graveside memorial will be held Saturday, April 28, at 11:30 a.m. at Canton Cemetery. Luncheon will follow at the Hale community building in Hale, Iowa.

Raymond was born in Canton, Iowa to Melvin and Ester Potter. Raymond and his brothers owned and operated Potter Bros. construction for many years before moving to Huntsville, Texas, in 1982. 

Raymond leaves behind three children: daughters Debra Diaz of Riverside, Texas, Candie Buresh of Watauga, Texas, and son Steve Houston of Olin, Iowa; brothers, Fred, Sydney and Jack; and several nieces and nephews. 

Graveside memorial will be held Saturday, April 28, at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon will follow at the Hale community building in Hale, Iowa.

David Tracy

David L. Tracy, 58, of Pembine, Wisconsin, passed away April 5, 2018, from complications following surgery in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Cremation was performed, with no visitation per his wishes. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, outdoors and in summer, as per his wishes

Dave was born Jan. 21, 1960, in Maquoketa, Iowa, son of Dylon and Joanne (Lohmeier) Tracy. He grew up in Maquoketa, consequently working and living in many places, including Texas, Idaho, Iowa and Alaska (his and his wife Cathy’s favorite), and finally settling in northern Wisconsin. Dave held many jobs; most recent were logger and large equipment/diesel mechanic.

Dave as an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt, fish, four-wheel, boat and just be in the great outdoors with his wife, Cathy, and always with a faithful dog a this side.

Those left to honor his memory are his wife, Cathy (Novak) Tracy of Pembine, Wis.; their daughter, Christina (Joel) Dill of Georgia; two granddaughters, Alaina and Katlyn Dill of Georgia; father, Dylon Tracy of Maquoketa; sister, Deanna (Tracy) Morehead, and nephews Josh and Kyle Morehead, all of Davenport.

Dave was preceded in death by his mother, Joanne Tracy.

Marie A. Miller

Marie A. Miller, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Friday, April 20, 2018, at her home in Maquoketa. 

A celebration of Marie’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 25, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A memorial visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m. A private burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, at a later date.

Marie Alice Gade was born Aug. 23, 1928, in Nashville, Iowa, to Harry and Lillie (Frandsen) Gade. She grew up in Chicago where she graduated from high school. During the summers she would visit her family in the Nashville, Iowa, area; that is where she met her future husband, Alfred Dee Miller. They were married Aug. 25, 1957, in Maquoketa, Iowa. Three children were born to this union: Carol, Andrew and Adam.

Marie was a wonderful mother and housewife who helped farm with her husband in the Maquoketa area. She enjoyed gardening and loved to travel and spend time with her family.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Carol (Profian) Desuza of Greenwood, Ind., Andrew Miller of Maquoketa, and Adam (Karen) Miller of Maquoketa; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by parents Harry and Lillie; her stepfather, Anders Anderson Sr.; a brother, Anders Anderson Jr.; and sisters Thyra Kleinsmith, and Elaine Freeman on April 17, 2018.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marie A. Miller memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.carsonandson.com.

Rodney Said

Rodney Allen Said, 70, of Peosta, Iowa, passed away Friday, April 20, 2018, at his home in Peosta.

Friends and relatives of Rod called from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, April 22, at Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.

Services for Rod were held at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 22, at the funeral home with the Rev. Michael Schuller presiding. Full military honors were afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137. Burial will be held at a later date.

Rod was born July 11, 1947, in Clinton County, Iowa, son of Vern and Silvia (Teeters) Said. He graduated from Maquoketa High School in Maquoketa, Iowa. On July 24, 1982, he was united in marriage to Jean Casel in Maquoketa.

Rod served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a Helicopter Pilot. He is a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

He loved spending time with his family and friends especially golfing with his friend Bill Barton. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and hangout with his Legion friends, specifically his friend Kenny Olberding.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Said of Peosta; four children, Chad Said of Wilton, Iowa, Chandra Said of Wilton, Kari Frommelt of Canton, Mich., and Keasha Said; 11 grandchildren; two siblings, Gary Said and Deloris Bendixen, both of Maquoketa; two sisters-in-law, Linda Said and Donna Said, both of Maquoketa.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Amy Rausch; one grandson, Hunter Michael Frommelt on April 8, 2016; two brothers, Don Said and Ronnie Said; and one sister, Betty Wirth.

Online condolences may be sent to www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com.

Geraldine Behrend

Geraldine A. Behrend, 93, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away Thursday, March 29, 2018, at Anamosa Care Center in Anamosa, Iowa.

A celebration of Geraldine’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, April 2, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1 p.m. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa, Cemetery.

Geraldine Ann Clapp was born on Dec. 11, 1924, in Toronto, Iowa, to Daniel and Magdelina (Kent) Clapp Sr. She grew up in the Toronto area and married Leonard L. Behrend on Feb, 28, 1942, in Trenton, New Jersey. To this union five children were born: Charlotte, Bill, Lou, Rollie and Betty.

Geraldine raised a family and worked various jobs throughout her life, most notably as the “famous pie maker” at WAKA Restaurant in Maquoketa.

Geraldine was a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and United Church of Christ in Maquoketa. She enjoyed feeding the birds, especially cardinals, and cooking, sewing, embroidering quilts, and playing the organ. She especially loved spending time with her family.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Charlotte (Allen) McCloy of Monmouth, Iowa, Bill (Ann) Behrend of Sioux Falls, S.D., Lou (Carla) Behrend of DeWitt, Iowa, Rollie (Kay) Behrend of Calamus, Iowa, and Betty (Rich) Priester of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, three sisters, and her husband Leonard on Feb. 23, 1994.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Activities Department at Anamosa Care Center.

Leave online condolences at www.carsonandson.com.

Lynn Randolph

Lynn Alan Randolph, 54, of Arvada, Colorado, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away Oct. 20, 2017, of cardiac arrest at Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, surrounded by his family.

His sons have decided that his final resting place will be alongside his parents, Marion and Leora.  Following a private family burial at Buckhorn Waterford Cemetery, his children invite family and friends for a celebration of life luncheon at noon Saturday, April 28, 2018, at 401 N. Arcade St., Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.  

Lynn Alan Randolph was born in Maquoketa on Oct. 20, 1963, to Marion Randolph and Leora (Bartles) Korthaus.  He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1982 and continued on to receive a business degree from the University of Northern Iowa in December 1988.  Lynn spent most of his professional life installing carpet around the Denver, Colorado area.  Lynn was an active member of Heritage Christian Center in Denver, Colorado.  He enjoyed spending his time giving back to his church and watching the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies games.  

Lynn married Trish Binns in 1985 in Maquoketa, and they had two children, Joshua and Jacob. He and Trish later divorced. In 1997, Lynn married Laurie Green in Denver, Colorado.  He and Laurie later divorced.

Those left to honor Lynn’s memory are his children, Joshua (Britney) Randolph of Breda, Iowa, and Jacob (Jodi) Randolph of Sac City, Iowa and four grandsons; Seth, Zachary, Jackson and Kris; one sister, Lauleen Krumviede of Maquoketa, and several nieces and nephews.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Randolph and Leora Korthaus; a step-father, Orville Korthaus; one brother, Mike Randolph; and a sister, Margo Christiansen.   

The family of Lynn Randolph thanks everyone for their ongoing support during this difficult time.  

Ronald Bliss

Ronald F. “Ron” Bliss, 71, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away Thursday morning, March 29, 2018, in Bellevue, Iowa.

A celebration of Ron’s life was held at 10 a.m. Monday, April 2, at Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew. Visitation was held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 31, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial was in the Andrew Cemetery.

Ronald Frederick Bliss was born Oct. 7, 1946, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Frederick and Arlene (Current) Bliss. He was a 1964 graduate of Andrew Community High School and then served six years in the Army Reserves. He married Carol Jean Graves April 3, 1966, in Andrew. To this union two children were born: Alan and Kim.

Ron first worked for McMurray Farms, then Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and later for International Harvester. He lastly worked as a truck driver for Darling (formerly National By-Products) in Clinton for more than 44 years, retiring in 2012.

Ron was a member of Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew. He loved the outdoors and would go fishing any chance he could. He also enjoyed racecar driving for 14 years, playing softball, and raccoon hunting. He was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago sports teams including the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, and Black Hawks.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Carol Bliss of Andrew, Iowa; children, Alan (Lisa) Bliss of Andrew, Iowa, and Kim (Troy) Hingtgen of Andrew, Iowa; three grandchildren, Ashlee (Keith) DeMoss, Ryan Hingtgen and Cale Hingtgen; two great-grandchildren, Jadyn DeMoss and Kamryn DeMoss; a brother, James (Cindy) Bliss of LaMotte, Iowa; a sister, Diane (Rick) Gerischer of Maquoketa, Iowa; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Oscar Duhme; and one infant son, Chad Ronald Bliss.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Ronald F. “Ron” Bliss memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Kenneth Davison Jr.

Kenneth D. Davison Jr., 85, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Saturday, March 31, 2018, at the Galesburg Cottage Hospital in Galesburg, Illinois. 

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Kenneth on Thursday, April 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded and burial will be at a later date.

Kenneth Dean Davison Jr. was born Feb. 10, 1933 in Lebanon, Missouri, to Kenneth and Thelma (Beagle) Davison. He was a 1950 graduate of Maquoketa High School then served his country in the U.S. Army, receiving an honorable discharge. He married Margaret Kay Burmahl Sept. 16, 1956 in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Daryl, Kathleen and Darby.

Kenneth was a lifetime farmer in the Maquoketa area and had worked as an inspector at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for more than 25 years.

Kenneth enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and mushrooming.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Daryl Davison of Maquoketa, Iowa, Kathleen (Bill Marousis) Stoll of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Darby (Teresa) Davison of Maquoketa, Iowa; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and brothers, Richard “Dick” (Karen) Davison of Maquoketa, Iowa, and William “Bill” Davison of Maquoketa, Iowa. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Margaret, on Jan. 28, 2004; a sister, Mary Davison; and a brother, John “Jack” Davison.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

 

 

 

Velma Ringen

Velma Ringen, 97, of Preston, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at Mill Valley Care Center, Bellevue, Iowa.

Keith Curley

Keith Leroy Curley, 83, of Cotter, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, March 24, 2018, after a long illness.  

Keith, the second-born of 16 children, was born July 15, 1934, in Hale, Iowa, the son of Raymond and Anna (Leslie) Curley. He attended country school outside of Hale until the family moved to a farm near Clarence, Iowa. He attended Clarence public schools through the eighth grade. On June 5, 1956, Keith enlisted in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged on June 27, 1962. He first married Betsy A. Marecek in New York in 1957 and then married Janice Kuehn in 1973.  

“Curley,” as most of his friends knew him, was a painter by trade, starting with water towers and eventually operating his own contractor painting business climbing ladders into his 80s. During his life journey and adventures, he worked in the fur business with his brothers before moving to Arkansas. Once soulfully connected to the White River, Curley could be found on many weekends cooking shore lunches for guided fishing trips or fishing himself. He taught his family and grandchildren how to navigate the river and surrounding lakes and how to appreciate the beauty and bounty of both.  

As a child, Keith worked hard in his immense family garden. Strawberries were the specialty.

This green thumb and hard work ethic carried on through his life and created new acquaintances wherever he went. As each new garden season produced vegetables, friends, neighbors, and towns people also enjoyed the abundance. Keith’s kitchen was full of canning jars, just awaiting the beauty they would hold throughout the winter. His handmade canning shelves were filled with a rainbow of color at the end of each season, and they were shared with visitors and friends each day. His culinary creativity dabbled in wine making and his special flavors enticed your taste buds with each sip – nother gift to share with the many friends he made throughout his life.  

Mr. Curley is survived by his five children, Nanette (Gary) Bolar of Beloit, Wisconsin; Brian (Sarah) Curley of Beloit, Wisconsin; Ed (Caroline) Curley of Davenport, Iowa; Yvonne (Bruce) Bright of Lowden, Iowa; and Yvette (Todd) Bonny of Janesville, Wisconsin; and his siblings, Beverly Yarolem of Monmouth, Margie Taylor of Arkansas, Elizabeth (Caylop) Minchew of Alabama, Larry (Marlene) Curley of Oxford Mills, Lyle (Gwen) Curley of Alabama, Wayne (Loretta) Curley of California, twins Danny (Kathy) Curley of Clarence and Dennis (Diane) Curley of Arkansas, Rex Curley of Arkansas, Peggy (Chuck) Wolfe of Dixon, Bonnie Kuehl of Walcott, and Mary Score of Marion; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Raymond Jr., and Arnold; a sister, Marsha; and a daughter, Misty.

A celebration of life visitation was held Thursday, March 29, at the VFW Club in Cotter, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant a flower or visit a local farmer’s market!

The kiss of the sun for pardon,

The song of the birds for mirth,

One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth. 

~ Dorothy Frances Gurney, “Garden Thoughts”

Steven Breuer

Steven P. Breuer, 53, of Baldwin, passed away Saturday morning, March 24, 2018, at his home in rural Baldwin, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating Steven’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 7, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation was held Friday, April 6, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:45 p.m. scripture service was held. Visitation was also held Saturday, April 7, from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Steven Patrick Breuer was born Aug. 14, 1964, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Wilfred Paul and Marcella (Weber) Breuer. He was a 1983 graduate of Waterloo Columbus High School and then attended Hawkeye Tech and later Sheldon Lineman School in Sheldon, Iowa. He married Debbie Faye Chipman on Sept. 24, 2005, in Maquoketa.

Steven, who was affectionately known as “Steve,” “Jinx,” or “Brew,” was a journeyman lineman for more than 30 years, currently working for M.J. Electric.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. He enjoyed trout fishing, hunting, riding his Harley, watching old western movies on television, and reading old western books. Additionally, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Debbie Breuer of Baldwin; stepchildren, Tom (Sarah) Spleas of Hales Corners, Wis., Christina (Joseph) Holthaus of Greendale, Wis., and Nicholas (Mallory) Chipman of Wauwatosa, Wis.; five step-grandchildren, Emily, Ben, Alex, Nicholas and Zach; five brothers, John Breuer of Jesup, Iowa, Rick (Angie) Breuer of Waterloo, Iowa, Jim (Lucy) Breuer of Waterloo, Iowa, Joe (Carolyn) Breuer of West Union, Iowa, and Pat (Starla) Breuer of Fredonia, Ken.; nine sisters, Barb (Steve) Schmit of Elkhorn, Neb., Bonnie (John) Gorman of San Diego, Calif., Nancy Kreger of Raymond, Iowa, Teresa (Charles) Lauterbach of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, Frances (Mike) Miller of Robins, Iowa, Joan (Rick) Budde of Waterloo, Iowa, Donna Timmer of Waterloo, Iowa, Carol (Steve) Gleaves of Houston, Texas, and Martha Breuer of Poway, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Dan Breuer.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Steven P. Breuer memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Paul Stevens

Paul A. Stevens of Dubuque, and formerly of Maquoketa and Cameron, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.

A natural journey farewell with cremation has taken place. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Among survivors are his wife, Donna Ward Stevens of Dubuque, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Paul A. Stevens memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Roger Kunde

Roger H. Kunde, 63, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away March 26, 2018, at Unity Point Finley Hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 31, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will take place at St. Theresa’s Cemetery in LaMotte, Iowa. Visitation was Friday, March 30, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home, and after 9 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home until time of service.

Roger was born Jan. 3, 1955, the son of Harry and Anna (Miller) Kunde in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Roger was the rock of our family. He did everything he could for all of us. Family meant everything to him. He started Roger’s Auto Salvage in 1981; from there he bought North End Wrecking Inc. in 2001. In 2005 he rekindled his love of farming and built over 1,000 acres. He bought Wenzel Towing in 2012 to keep the legacy of Jules Wenzel Sr. going, the same year he started Watershed Café. He was also a member of the Hawkeye Vintage Machinery Association. He loved to work; when one project was done, it wasn’t time to rest, it was time to start another.

He will be forever remembered by his partners Lois and Joan; his children, Scott (Karrie Thole) Kunde, Jodi (Chad Knight) Kunde, Deven Kunde, Nathan (Rachel Miller) Kunde, and Jerad (Liz Theisen) Kunde; grandchildren, Hailey, Lexi Jo, and Parker, who will continue to build his dream. He is also survived by his brothers, David (Donna) Kunde, Gary (MaryAnn) Kunde, Steven (Joan) Kunde, Randy (Samantha) Kunde; his sisters, MaryAnn (Russ) Wenger, Kathy (Roy) Snook, Alice Jean Kunde, and Amylou (Dale) Barglof.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Timothy, and his parents, Harry and Anna Kunde.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in his name.

The family thanks Bernard Fire and Rescue Department for their care.

Verna Mae Keil

Verna Mae Keil, 81, of Bellevue, died Tuesday morning, March 27, 2018, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.

A Christian funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 29, at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue. Visitation for Verna Mae was held Thursday morning prior to the service from 9 to 10 at the church. Arrangements are being handled by the Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Bellevue.

Verna Mae was born the last child of three on May 4, 1936, in Bellevue, Iowa, the daughter of Christopher and Mabel (Eggers) Keil. Verna’s father passed away at a young age, therefore she was very close to her mother. She lived with and took care of her until her passing in July 1999. Verna was quiet and reserved yet still took an interest in others.

She worked at ESKA in Dubuque for more than 18 years. Verna enjoyed gardening, puzzles, playing cards, and most importantly, her faith and church. She also enjoyed eating at the Riverview Hotel in Bellevue.

Those left to honor her memory include her sister-in-law, Dolores Keil, seven nieces and nephews, and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Verna Mae is preceded in death by her parents, brother Robert Keil and sister Mary Lou (Charlie) Schreiber, two special people she has missed dearly.

Verna Mae’s family thanks the staff at Mill Valley Care Center, nurses at Hospice of Jackson County, and her best friend, Gina Hingtgen, for the wonderful care and compassion they provided her.

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

 

 

Ronald “Ron” Bliss

Ronald “Ron” Bliss, 71, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away Thursday morning, March 29, 2018, in Bellevue, Iowa.

Services are pending and will be announced under the care of Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Patricia Burris

Patricia Burris, 89, of Maquoketa, passed away Friday, March 23, 2018, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Her funeral Mass was held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 26, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. A visitation was held Monday, March 26 from 10-11 a.m. at the church before the service. Burial was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Maquoketa. Arrangements are in the care of Lahey and Dawson Funeral Service in Maquoketa.

Patricia Burris was born on March 13, 1929, to Frank and Anna (Meersman) Honsa in Moline, Illinois. She graduated from Moline High School and went on to attend Marycrest and Northwestern University.

On May 21, 1955, she married Douglas J. Burris at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Moline, Illinois. She worked as a paralegal for the State of Iowa, worked in the corporate office at John Deere, was a trust officer at Jackson State Bank, and finished her career as a court attendant in Jackson County. She retired after turning 70.

Patricia was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Democratic Party, Maquoketa Country Club, Associate of Franciscan’s, a study club at Sacred Heart, school board member, Girl Scout leader, and Sacred Heart Parish Council member. She loved to play bridge, dance with her husband, and put on pretty parties.

She is survived by her children, Luann “Lanny” (Tom) Simpson of Maquoketa, Tamara “Tammy” (W. Scott) Graeme of Hoffman Estates, and Doug (Tammy) Burris of Indianapolis, Indiana; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Helen Honsa of California; and many nieces and nephews. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Douglas, two sisters, and three brothers.

Memorials may be directed to the family in her honor.

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

Wallace Soenksen

Wallace E. “Wally” Soenksen, 85, of Maquoketa, passed away Thursday, March 22, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and family may gather for One Last Party celebrating Wally’s life from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 25, in The Bistro at Carson Celebration of Life Center. A private burial will be held from the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Wallace Eugene Soenksen was born Oct. 8, 1932, in Elwood, Iowa, to Eugene and Berniece (Hamilton) Soenksen. He grew up in Elwood and attended Elwood schools through the eighth grade. He married Thelma I. Slaughter May 12, 1956, in Clinton, Iowa. She preceded him in death July 31, 1988.

Wally first worked as a farmhand for families around the Elwood area. He then began helping Blaine Bock with the wrecker service at Dude’s 66 and later Bock’s Texaco. When Blaine and Mary started farming in 1972, Wally became their right-hand man and has been a part of their family ever since. 

Wally was a member of the Buckhorn Community Club. He enjoyed fishing, going to the casino boats, having a good card game at McDonald’s, and his morning coffee group at River Village. He especially enjoyed his “road trips” with his special friend, Larry Fuller.

Those left to honor his memory include a brother, Harvey Soenksen of Maquoketa, Iowa; a special friend, Barb Graves of Maquoketa; and his adopted family, Blaine and Mary Bock of Maquoketa, Michele and Kevin Foley and their children Devon and Ryan of Boston, Mass., and Marisa and Matt Hefner and their children Jack and Jace of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, sisters Beulah and Lulumay, and one infant brother.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Wallace E. “Wally” Soenksen memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Virginia Rice Slee

Virginia Rice Slee, 85, of Quincy, Illinois, passed away at 2:30 p.m. Friday, March 23, 2018, in North Adams Home in Mendon.

Born Nov. 11, 1932, in Hannibal, Missouri, Virginia was the daughter of Edgar H. and Birdie Rice Cattle. She married Jack M. Slee on June 12, 1954, in Ft. Madison, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 5, 2009.

Virginia was an active member of Union United Methodist Church for more than 50 years as member of the choir, directing the children’s choir, and a leading role in her women’s circle. She was a leader in the Webster School Girl Scouts and past president of the PTA. Virginia was the most faithful fan of her children’s and grandchildren’s activities in dance, sports and music. She fostered a love of the outdoors in the backwaters of the Mississippi at a young age and organized many family camping adventures over the years. She and her husband Jack loved to dance to big band music.

A 1950 graduate of Hannibal High School, Virginia earned an associate degree from Hannibal-LaGrange College in 1952. Virginia was employed as a secretary at Blessing Hospital for many years until her retirement.

Survivors include two daughters, Marilyn Osterhaus (Matt) of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Debbie Broerman (Greg) of Kenosha, Wis.; two sons, David Slee (Kathy) of Quincy and Bob Slee of Quincy; 15 grandchildren, Will Uppinghouse (Heather), Jessie Kamm (Cory), Ryan Slee (Candace), Nathan Slee (Missy), Jordan Slee (Shannon), Jenna Bichsel (Josh), Andy Osterhaus (Kate Norris), Maria Scott (Bobby), Jack Osterhaus (Ashley), Laura Osterhaus, Joseph Slee, Samantha Slee, John Broerman (Lizzie), Alison Orzech (Bobby) and Kate Hebel (Eric); 22 great-grandchildren including Bennett Steven Hebel born March 23, 2018; two brothers, David Cattle (Barbara) of Belton, Mo., and Don Cattle (Kay) of Azle, Texas; a sister, Susan Cattle of Fish Creek, Wis.; a brother-in-law, Jim Slee (Audrey) of Vero Beach, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Dinah Slee of Muscatine, Iowa; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Slee was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack; and a brother-in-law, Jerry Slee.

Funeral services will be held Thursday morning, March 29, at 10:30 a.m. in Union United Methodist Church, 1101 State Street, Quincy, Illinois.

Burial will be in Greenmount Cemetery.

Visitation will be Wednesday evening, March 28, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Zehender Robinson Stormer Cookson Funeral Home, 1435 State Street, Quincy, Illinois, and Thursday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of service at Union United Methodist Church.

Memorials may be made to Union United Methodist Church or North Adams Home in Mendon.

 

Carol Benson

Carol Jean Saunders Benson died Thursday, March 22, 2018, at Pleasant View nursing home in Monroe, Wisconsin.  

She was born Jan. 8, 1935, in Jackson County, Iowa, to Davis and Hazel Watters Saunders. She graduated from Maquoketa High School in Maquoketa, Iowa, in 1953. She worked in home health care and restaurants before moving to Wisconsin. 

She married Chester Earl Benson Nov. 13, 2004. She loved playing accordion, and she and Earl played many places in and around South Wayne where they lived. She loved a party, and she and Earl enjoyed many birthdays where they could play their beloved music. She was a member of the Swiss Singers.  

Carol is survived by a niece, Karen (LeeRoy) Proesch of Wheatland, Iowa, a nephew Joseph Rowan of Iowa City, Iowa, and many other nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her husband Earl, two brothers, and one sister. Arrangements are pending at Erickson Funeral Home in Wisconsin.

 

Steven P. Breuer

Steven P. “Steve” Breuer, 53, of Baldwin, passed away Saturday, March 24, 2018, at his home.

Services are pending and will be announced under the care of the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Marvin Kieffer

Marvin Joseph Kieffer, 92, of Bellevue, died Friday, March 16, 2018, at the Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 6, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. Burial will be held in the St. Donatus Catholic Cemetery. Visitation for Marvin will be Friday from 1-2 p.m. also at the church. Arrangements are being handled by Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Marvin was born April 5, 1925, in Bellevue, Iowa, son of William and Mary (Rueter) Kieffer. He married Luella Deppe; they were later divorced.

Marvin worked for Clinton Engines for a few years. Most of his career was spent as a self-employed carpenter in Bellevue. He built many houses and repaired a lot of barns during his career. He had a kind, gentle heart and enjoyed visiting with people. He enjoyed fishing and camping. He will be deeply missed.

Those left to honor his memory include his two brothers, Loras (Ann Mae) of Dubuque and Francis (Sandy) of Hawaii.

He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Rosemary and Norita, and three brothers, Raphael, Vertis and Vern.

The family especially thanks all who helped and visited Marvin through the years.

 

 

Mervyn Helfert

Mervyn L. Helfert, 81, of Sabula, Iowa, passed away Monday, March 19, 2018 at home. 

Mary Horst

Mary Horst, 89, of Miles, Iowa, passed away Friday, March 16, 2018, at Genesis Medical Center East, Davenport, Iowa. 

A funeral Mass will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 21, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Preston, Iowa. Burial will take place in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Bellevue, Iowa. Visitation was held from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at Law-Jones Funeral Home, Preston. A memorial fund has been established in Mary’s memory.

Mary was born Feb. 23, 1929, in Bellevue, Iowa, the daughter of Earl and Irene (Schlecht) Belk. She graduated from Miles High School. On June 25, 1949, Mary married Clarence Horst. They raised six children and celebrated 68 years of marriage until Clarence’s passing on July 31, 2017.

Mary was a homemaker and helped her husband on their farm. She cherished the time spent with her family. Mary was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Preston.

Mary will be dearly missed by her five sons, Steven Horst of Rock Island, Illinois, Stanley (Dawn) Horst of Clinton, Stuart (Gretchen) Horst, and Thomas (Kelly) Horst, both of Miles, Iowa, and Sidney (Julie) Horst of Bellevue; eight grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a sister, Catherine Dunn of Platteville, Wisconsin. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Irene; and a son, Kevin Horst.

Arnold Weirup

Arnold “Arnie” Peter Weirup, 90, of Maquoketa, passed away Saturday, March 17, 2018, at his home.

A memorial service celebrating Arnie’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 22, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa with Pastor Judy Heinrich officiating. Burial of cremains will be at Buckhorn Cemetery, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Camp Courageous, Hospice of Jackson County or Buckhorn Cemetery. Cards and memorials can be mailed to 11300 First St., Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.

Arnold was born March 7, 1928, to Peter and Elsie (Weede) Weirup on the family farm in rural Maquoketa. He married Lois Darlene Campbell June 8, 1952, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Last year they celebrated 65 years of marriage. To this marriage was born Rhonda, Peter, Merle, Jeffery and Arnold. 

Arnie graduated from Elwood High School. He served in the Army during the Korean War and had to leave the service early to come home because of a family emergency. Recently, Arnie had gone on the Quad City Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. He and Lois made their home on the family farm where he continued to farm, raise cattle, sheep, pigs and later added horses. Later in life he and Lois delivered the Quad City Sunday paper and he was a meter reader for Rural Electric Company. 

Here are words that describe the man Arnie was: hard worker, lived simply, laughed, loved much, spoke kindly, cared deeply, expected little and gave generously. He will be missed by those who called him husband, dad, grandpa, great grandpa, brother, uncle and friend.

Left to share his memories are his wife, Lois of rural Maquoketa; one daughter, Rhonda (Rich) Miller of Delmar; four sons, Peter (Arleen) Weirup of Maquoketa, Merle (Deloris Pascarella) Weirup of Bettendorf, Jeffery (Cynthia) Weirup of Grand Mound and Arnold (Denise) Weirup of Fairfield; 10 grandchildren, Charity (Jeremy) McDevitt, Amy (Kedric) Moore, Peter Perez-Weirup, Tyler Weirup, Amber (Carlos) Hernandez, Kyle, Krystal and Kayla Weirup, Danielle (Eric Joseph) Rock-Joseph and Amber Rock; seven great grandkids, Michaela (Cody) Eads, Carter Gjerstad, Kegan, Jaci and Michael Moore, Dylan McDevitt and Asher Joseph; nieces, nephews and cousins; Leland Bachtell and many more extended families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Elsie; two sisters, Orvilla Weirup and Helma (Paul) Heeren.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Richard Bickford

Richard Bickford, 70, of Independence, Missouri, passed away March 17, 2018. 

He is survived by his wife, Candy; a son, Corey; and a daughter, Cayce Palmer; four grandchildren, Turner, Ian, Avery and William Palmer; two sisters, Pam Said and Kelli Markle; and one brother, Randy Bickford. 

Private services with no visitation will be at the Chapel of Memories in Grain Valley, Missouri. 

Bickford worked for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers as a journeyman lineman until his retirement. 

Lawrence Fier

Lawrence W. Fier, 91, of Maquoketa, passed away Friday, March 9, 2018, at Crestridge Care Center in Maquoketa. 

His funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 14, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. A visitation was held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, at Lahey & Dawson Funeral Service, Maquoketa. Interment will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Maquoketa. 

Lawrence William was born March 16, 1926, in Sugar Creek, Iowa, to Leo and Clara (Holdgrafer) Fier. On April 1, 1948, he was united in marriage to Arlene Lindstrom. Lawrence farmed his entire life and worked at the Maquoketa Livestock Sales for over 30 years.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Fr. Loosbrook Council 8269. He spent his time enjoying playing cards, fishing, hunting, and polka dancing. 

Those left to cherish his memories are his six children, Linda (Raymond) Peck of Clinton, Gary (Mary) Fier of Clinton, Alfred (Cindy) Fier of Maquoketa, Patrick (Christie) Fier of Maquoketa, Kathy (Donald) Kunde of Maquoketa, and Shelley (Joe) Heinrich of Maquoketa; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and one on the way; two great-great grandchildren; a sister, Marie Berthel of Bellevue; two brothers, Arthur (Gretchen) Fier and Leo Fier, and a sister-in-law, Pearl Fier. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Arlene, and two brothers, Robert and Joseph. 

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in his honor. 

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

John Weets

John H. Weets, 86, of Dubuque, formerly of Maquoketa, passed away Friday, March 9, 2018, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A visitation was held from 4 to 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with a celebration of life service beginning at 6:30 p.m. A private burial will be held at a later date from Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

John Henry Weets was born March 20, 1931, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Henry and Edith (Edwards) Weets. He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School and served his country in the U.S. Army, receiving an honorable discharge with the rank of sergeant. He had also received the Korean Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, 2 Oak Leaf Clusters and the United Nations Service Medal. 

He married Mary Ann Larkey on Jan. 2, 1951, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Following his military service, John returned home and began a 40-year career with the Maquoketa Municipal Electric Utility Plant. Thirty-four of those years were spent as power plant superintendent and six years as the utility manager. He retired in 1994.

John was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, and a lifetime member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether. He enjoyed camping and traveling, tinkering on cars, crafts and woodworking. In retirement, John and Mary spent winters in Mission, Texas, for many years.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary Ann Weets of Dubuque; children, Dennis (Marsha) Weets of Monument, Col., Kathy (John) Lee of Prairie City, Iowa, Lori Weets of Dubuque, Karla (Wilhelm “Will”) DeLarm of Maquoketa, and Gary (Dawn) Weets of Platteville, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.  

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Paula; a brother, Max; and a sister, Eunice “Sue” Davison.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a John H. Weets memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.carsonandson.com.

Irvin Wallroff

Irvin L. Wallroff, 70, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa.

A celebration of Irvin’s life was at First Baptist Church in Maquoketa. There was no visitation, and cremation has taken place. Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Irvin Leon Wallroff was born March 5, 1947, in Cascade, Iowa, to Owen and Sibyl (Carpenter) Wallroff. He had four children: Tonia, Craig, Chad and Leah.

Irvin had worked for Hoof Corporation and Earles Concrete in Maquoketa. He loved fishing, playing cards, and driving on gravel roads for sight-seeing. 

Those left to honor Irvin’s memory include his children, Tonia (Paul) Velte of Rogers, Ariz., Craig (Irene) Wallroff of Maquoketa, and Leah (fiancé David Creger) of Maquoketa; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother, Vurt (Deb) Wallroff of Maquoketa; and sisters, Verna (Steve) Flagel of Zwingle, Iowa, Rose (Lyle) Rowan of Maquoketa, and Pat Peiffer of Minonk, Ill.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Chad; a brother, Alva Shady; and sisters, Carole Dodds and Marilyn Earles.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Irvin L. Wallroff memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Rosemary Kettmann

Rosemary Kettmann, 86, of Bellevue, died Monday morning, March 5, 2018, at Mill Valley Care Center, Bellevue.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 9, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. Burial will be held in the parish cemetery. Visitation for Rosemary will be 3-7 p.m. Thursday evening at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Friday morning from 9-10 a.m. at the funeral home.

Rosemary was born Dec. 2, 1931, in St. Donatus, Iowa, daughter of John and Eleanor (Arensdorf) Wieseler. She married Milton Kettmann Nov. 22, 1948, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, Iowa. He passed away Jan. 10, 2002.

Together, Rosemary and Milt farmed and raised their eight children. She was a hard worker and always kept busy. After her last child went to school, she cooked for St. Joseph’s hot lunch program. She really enjoyed the kids and worked there for more than 13 years. She also cooked at Bellevue Senior Center and Mill Valley Care Center.

Rosemary’s faith was very important to her; she was generous and prayed for many people over the years. She loved being on the farm and enjoyed cooking and baking. She was known for her banana walnut bread and her coffee cakes. She will be deeply missed.

Those left to honor her memory include her daughter, Susie (Kent) Clasen of Bellevue; six sons, John (Marilyn), Jim (Nancy), Steve (Jackie), Russ (Dianne), Mike (Dina), and Joe (Carol), all of Bellevue; 21 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and brother Lester Motsch of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Patrick; sister, Rita Werner; and three brothers, Fred, Ralph and Kenny Wieseler.

The family especially thanks the staffs of Mill Valley and Hospice of Jackson County and Sherri Budde for the special care shown to Rosemary.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Rosemary’s name.

Lucille Sorensen

Lucille Ellen Sorensen, 92, of Maquoketa, passed away Sunday, March 4, 2018, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A graveside service and burial will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10, from Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa. There is no visitation. Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is in charge of the arrangements.

Lucille Ellen Meinke was born July 24, 1925, in Clinton County, Iowa, to Louis C. and Thelma M. (Staman) Meinke. She attended Elwood School and upon graduation enrolled in Iowa State Teacher’s College (now UNI). She married Richard “Dick” Sorensen July 23, 1950, in Elwood, Iowa. He preceded her in death Jan. 13, 2003.

Lucille had taught in various school systems including Bellevue, Elwood and Maquoketa until her retirement.

She excelled in 4-H activities in Clinton County as a young girl, and later was involved in 4-H Junior Leaders, which was a part of the 4-H program in Jackson County.

Lucille was very active in the Jackson County Historical Society and its genealogy department for many years. People would often call on Lucille for history facts and figures concerning events, people, family ties, etc., of the area. 

Lucille is survived by two nephews, Lynn Tonderum of Maquoketa and Paul Tonderum of Delmar, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard; and a sister, Evelyn Tonderum.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Jackson County Historical Society or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Dennis Duhme

Dennis D. Duhme, 67, of Maquoketa, passed away Sunday, March 4, 2018, at his home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Dennis’ life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 9, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 8, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation will follow the visitation. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Dennis Darrell Duhme was born May 4, 1950, in Savanna, Illinois, to Melvin Arlo and Georgia Carol (Tegmeier) Duhme. He was educated in Andrew Schools for six years prior to moving to Morristown, Minnesota, where he graduated from Morristown High School. He married Loly Fajayan Oct. 7, 1985, in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union two children were born, Andrew and Alex.

Dennis had farmed and milked cows in the Otter Creek area for many years and worked in the maintenance department at Wal-Mart in Maquoketa for more than 25 years.

Dennis enjoyed fishing and gardening and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Loly Duhme of Maquoketa; children, Andrew (Brandi) Duhme of Blue Grass, Iowa, and Alex Duhme of Maquoketa; three grandchildren, Kaylynn, Korbin and Brylee; brothers, Dale Duhme of Sioux Falls, SD, David (Beverly) Duhme of Morristown, Minn., and Mike Duhme of Otter Creek, Iowa; sisters, Darlene (Steve) Luther of Waseca, Minn., and Janice (Toby) Wilke of Maquoketa; and his stepmother, Lois Jean Duhme of Maquoketa.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Dennis D. Duhme memorial fund has been established. 

Leave condolences online at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Theodore Miller

Theodore C. “Ted” Miller, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, Feb. 23, 2018, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa.

Friends and family gathered to celebrate Ted’s life from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A private graveside service and burial will be held at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

Theodore Clare Miller was born Dec. 19, 1939, in Maquoketa, to Norman and Alverda (Carter) Miller. He attended Bridgeport and Maquoketa schools. He married Elizabeth Anne Clark Feb. 22, 1957, in Maquoketa. To this union four children were born: Andrea, Malise, Salina and Shalan.

Ted had first worked for Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for nine years, then Hayes Bros. Dairy in Maquoketa for 15 years, and later painted houses with his wife, Anne, for two years. Lastly, he worked for Campbell Cleanup and Ruff ’N’ Ready in Maquoketa for 25 years.

Ted was a member of the Izaak Walton League and the Jackson County Historical Society. He enjoyed fishing, hunting in his earlier days, going on walks, feeding the birds, and his garden. Additionally, he loved history and reading about it. He was a social person who looked forward to going for coffee with his buddies each day.

Those left to honor his memory include his daughters, Andrea (Dan) Foley of Twin Lakes, Wis., Malise (Rick) Usher of Delmar, Iowa, Salina (Dave) Durr of Solon, Iowa, and Shalan Miller of Maquoketa; 13 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Betty (John) Gebhart of Quincy, Ill. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Elizabeth Anne, April 26, 2013.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Theodore C. “Ted” Miller memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Mary Dunne

Mary Etta Dunne, 76, of Otter Creek, died Saturday evening, Feb. 24, 2018, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 2, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek. Visitation for Mary will be Thursday evening from 4-7 p.m. at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Friday morning from 9:30–10:30 a.m. at the church.

Mary was born Sept. 5, 1941, in Springbrook, Iowa, daughter of Arnold and Alverda (Michel) Heiar. She married John V. Dunne Jan. 7, 1961, in Springbrook. He passed away Sept. 29, 2013. 

Mary lived on a farm all her life; she was a model farm wife. She always treated the animals with respect and did whatever needed to be done. She was easygoing, hardworking, nurturing and loving. Mary enjoyed reading and in her younger years loved to dance. Her family would tell you she was the world’s best cook. Everything she cooked or baked was homemade and tasted great.

She will be deeply missed.

Those left to honor her memory include her seven children, Thomas (Julie) of Cascade, Iowa, Peter (Janette) of Baldwin, Raymond of Otter Creek, Jennifer (Jon) Blackert of Mineral, Illinois, Maurice (Karen) and William of Otter Creek, and James of Monticello, Iowa; four grandchildren, John Dunne Jr., Abigail and Patrick Blackert, and Jessica Tuel; mother, Alverda Heiar of Bellevue; and sister Joanne (Donald) Schwager of New Liberty.

Mary is preceded in death by her father; husband; grandson, Jacob Dunne; brother, Harold Heiar; and sister in-law, Mary Jo Heiar.

Rosemary Schwager

Rosemary (Deppe) Schwager, 93, passed away Feb. 19, 2018, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows, surrounded by her family. Rosemary died from kidney failure after receiving dialysis for the past three years.

A celebration of Rosemary’s amazing life was held Saturday, Feb. 24, at St. Joseph’s Church in Bellevue. 

Rosemary was born to Henry and Pearl (Dirksen) Deppe in Springbrook Jan. 10, 1925. She graduated from St. Joseph’s High School then worked at the Gibson Company in Bellevue during World War II. 

Rosemary married Vincent Schwager on Valentine’s Day 1946. They farmed west of Bellevue where they raised 12 children. 

Family, friends and faith were extremely important to Rosemary. Gardening, sewing, cooking, baking and reading were some of Rosemary’s hobbies and many talents. Her famous potato salad, chocolate chip and sugar cookies, and grape jelly were family favorites. 

She volunteered her time as a 4-H leader, at St. Joseph’s Lunch Program, and at the Bellevue Senior Center. When her children were older, Rosemary became a certified nursing assistant at Mill Valley Care Center. She learned to use a computer and kept in contact with many via email and Facebook. She put together many scrapbooks of newspaper clippings and photos, keeping a history of family and friends. If there was an opportunity to travel or take on a new adventure, Rosemary had her bag packed and was ready to go! Rosemary enjoyed family events and celebrating milestones in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rosemary is survived by 10 children: Barb (Gary) Miller of Maquoketa, Ruth (Jim) Lewis of Dubuque, Joe (Rosie) Schwager of Maquoketa, Lorin (Debbie) Schwager and Chuck (Kathy) Schwager of Bellevue, Tim (Sheryl) Schwager and Susie (Jonathan) Poulton of Iowa City, Steve (Julie) Schwager of Prairie Du Chien, Mick (Tricia) Schwager of Bellevue, Marty (Jolea) Schwager of Clive, and daughter-in-law Cindy Schwager of Cascade. She enjoyed spending time with her 35 grandchildren: Sandy, Brad, Meghan, Corby, Cammy, Abbey, Nathan, Jessica, Abe, Annie, Jason, Kate, Tessa, Tiffany, Tina, Emily, Adleigh, Amy, Nicholas, Eric, Laura, Andrea, Sister Sophia, Christopher, Matthew, Mariah, Wesley, Jeb, Wade, Quinton, Kambree, Rozzlyn, Zachary and Keaton; 28 great-grandchildren; and four more expected this spring. She is also survived by a sister, Carol (Joe) Schaefer, and sisters-in-law Lucille Deppe and Phyllis Schwager. 

Rosemary is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Vincent in 1993, sons Tom and Paul Schwager, daughter-in-law Rita Krause, grandson Trevor Schwager, and brothers Allan and Robert Deppe.

The family thanks the skilled and caring staff at Tri-State Dialysis and Luther Manor. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established.

Doris Weis

Doris O. Weis, 89, of Maquoketa, passed away on Friday evening, Feb. 16, 2018, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Doris will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 2:30 p.m. Cremation will follow the service and a private burial will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, at a later date.

Doris O. Jessen was born March 31, 1928, in Maquoketa to Hans and Lulu (Taylor) Jessen. She was a 1945 graduate of Maquoketa High School. She married Marvin J. Weis on July 7, 1948, in Maquoketa.

Doris was a homemaker and had worked for Howard Woods at Iowa Production Credit Association in Maquoketa as a secretary and office assistant for several years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, the Joinerville Boat Club and the Maquoketa Garden Club.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Marvin J. Weis of Maquoketa; many nieces and nephews; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Dorothy Davis of Metairie, La., Coletta Littell of Eldridge, Iowa, and Velma and Dale Hovey of Maquoketa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters, Francis Wygie Jessen and Arlene Duhme.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Doris O. Weis memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Lynn Disney

Lynn L. Disney, 85, of Grinnell, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 17, 2018, at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell, Iowa.

A celebration of Lynn’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:45 p.m. Masonic service will be held. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Lynn Lamont Disney was born on Jan. 4, 1933, in Wellman, Iowa, to Lester and Opal (Green) Disney. He was a 1950 graduate of Wellman High School then received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in education from Iowa Wesleyan University in 1954. He then received his Master’s in 1963 from the University of Iowa, with additional postgraduate studies being done at Western Illinois University, University of Northern Iowa and Bemidji State College. He also enlisted in the Army Reserves serving for nine years. 

He married his college sweetheart, Norma J. Topp, on June 26, 1955, in Radcliffe, Iowa, and to this union two children were born: Brian and Rhonda. 

Lynn spent more than 40 years in education serving as an instructor, coach and administrator. He taught his first nine years at Keota, Keswick and Ainsworth. In August 1963 he began a 32-year career with the Maquoketa Community School District. From 1969 to 1983 he was the assistant principal at the Maquoketa Middle School, and from 1983 until retiring in 1995 he served as the principal. Lynn and Norma also owned and operated “Disney’s Shoe Barn” in Maquoketa for seven years.

Through the years Lynn had served on many educational and community boards, some of which included the Maquoketa Education Association serving as a past president; Iowa Education Association; School Administrators of Iowa Area IX; Maquoketa Masonic Helion Lodge #36 AF & AM, serving as a past Master; and First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

Lynn enjoyed serving on committees, showing horses, playing any card game especially Euchre, fishing, hunting, boating, golfing, and attending his grandchildren’s activities.

Those left to honor Lynn’s memory include his children, Brian (Bonnie) Disney of State Center, Iowa, and Rhonda (Galyn) Gohlmann of Grinnell, Iowa; four grandchildren, Joseph (Brittni) Disney, David Disney, and Teresa Disney, and Trey Gohlmann; two great-grandchildren, Bailey and Brody; a sister, Loretta (Don) Gardner of Washington, Iowa; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Carole Topp of Radcliffe, Iowa, and Mary Lou Topp of Hubbard, Iowa. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother, Ray; and his wife, Norma, on May 13, 2010.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lynn L. Disney memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.carsonandson.com.

Robert Eberhart

Robert J. Eberhart, 85, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf. 

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018, at Assumption Catholic Church in Charlotte. Visitation was from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, at the church. A rosary was recited at 2:30 p.m. before the visitation. Burial was in the Assumption Cemetery. Casket bearers were his grandsons. The Pape Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be left at www.papefh.com.

Robert was born July 23, 1932, in Charlotte. He was the third child of 10 born to Albert and Rosa (Voss) Eberhart. As a youngster, he moved to the Joe R. Brown farm “because Ma had too many mouths to feed.” There he helped with chores and attended school in Charlotte, often riding one of Joe’s horses to school.

In 1953 he served in the United States Army and was a member of the 630^th Engineers Light Equipment Company. He was honorably discharged in 1955 as a Korean War veteran. After his return from the military, he was united in marriage to Agnes M. Hammond on a snowy April 7, 1956, at St. Irenaeus Catholic Church, Clinton. She preceded him in death on Sept. 11, 2013. Together they farmed several years and raised five children. 

Robert eventually found his way into the fertilizer business working for Standard Oil. In 1969 he accepted the management position of a newly constructed fertilizer plant built in the middle of a corn field west of Preston, Iowa. Throughout the years he continued to manage the business as it changed ownership several times until 1985, when Robert purchased the business now known as Eberhart Farm Center.

He was a member of Assumption Catholic Church and the Jackson County Horse and Harness Association. He was an avid fan and attended hundreds of his children and grandchildren’s sporting events. He loved spending time outdoors gardening, fishing, tending to his team of Percheron horses Mike and Tom, and woodworking in his shop, all the while enjoying the opportunity to smoke his pipe. 

In his later years he spent his time playing cards and watching his favorites: Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, old westerns and the RFD channel. Most of all he loved sharing conversation with friends and family, always reminiscing with an amusing story.

Left to cherish Robert’s memory are his children, Lyle (Kristy) Eberhart of DeWitt, Craig (Lori) Eberhart of DeWitt, Nina (Kevin) Hoffman of Charlotte, John (Karen) Eberhart of Charlotte, and Charles (Jill) Eberhart of Goose Lake; grandchildren, Erin (Tony) Meyermann, Michael (Jana) Eberhart, Amanda Eberhart, Ross Eberhart, Alex Eberhart, Kyle (Jessica Spooner) Hoffman, Jared Hoffman, Levi Hoffman, Megan (Ryan) Johnson, Shaun Eberhart, Rachael (Brent) Blanchard, Brady Eberhart, Libby Eberhart, and Tanner Eberhart; nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Alice Butt, Mary (Wesley) Witt, Rose (Jerry) O’Meara, Helen Burken, Janet (Don) Parker and Joe (DaVonne) Eberhart; several nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law, Joyce Eberhart, Darlene (Lawrence) Lehmkuhl; and brother-in-law, Robert (Pam) Hammond. He is also survived by his beloved caregivers, Carla Larson and Jan Farrell, and his extended family at Clover Ridge Assisted Living in Maquoketa, Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Agnes; his parents; and his brothers, Bill, Walt, and Earl.

Arlene Hager

Arlene H. Hager, 88, of Bellevue, died Saturday morning, Feb. 17, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation for Arlene was Tuesday evening from 4-7 p.m. at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Wednesday morning from 9-10 a.m. at the funeral home.

Arlene was born June 13, 1929, in Springbrook, Iowa, daughter of Matthew and Julia (Kilburg) Michel. She married Orville Hager Aug. 23, 1951, in Springbrook. 

Arlene spent most of her life on the farm. She was a hard worker. Whether she was doing chores, gardening, cooking or cleaning, she seemed to have endless energy. Even the past couple of years she felt she had to somehow participate in lawn work or shoveling snow, against her family’s wishes, of course. 

Arlene was simple. She was never one to see value in things, just people. She never wanted to burden anyone, yet was always looking to be helpful to others any way she could. Arlene’s family meant the world to her. She was known for her homemade applesauce. She always made sure she sent the grandchildren home with a fresh batch.

Those left to honor her memory include her three children, Diane (Larry) Frett of Maquoketa, Darrell Hager of Bellevue and Brenda Hager of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Steven (Jamie) Frett and David (Tara) Frett; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Donald Michel and Bernard “Bun” (Darlene) Michel; five sisters, Alverda Heiar, Helen Zeimet, Marian Kloft, Bernadine Hartung and Carma (Lloyd) Frank.

Arlene is preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Herman; and three sisters, Dolores Heiar, Sr. Mary Matthew Michel and Alvina Stillmunkes.

Robert Henningsen

Robert W. Henningsen, 86, of Preston, Iowa, passed away peacefully Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018, surrounded by his family. 

A funeral Mass was held at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Preston. Burial was at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Preston. Visitation was Sunday, Feb. 18, from 3-7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. 

All memorials will be donated to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Preston Fire Department, Preston Ambulance Service, and Shriner’s Hospital. 

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

Robert was born Oct. 7, 1931, in Preston, the son of Bert and Katie (Trenkamp) Henningsen. Robert spent much of his childhood riding with his father, Bert, hauling cattle. At age 11, Robert received his first ticket while driving his dad’s semi. At age 14 he drove his first semi-load of cattle alone to the Chicago Stockyards. For years, he made countless trips to Chicago. Many of the trips were triple-headers (back to back to back). 

Upon graduation from high school, Robert drove truck for his father. On one of his trips in 1961, the semi he was driving was struck by a train while entering the Stone Gate at the Chicago Stockyards. He was uninjured. 

In 1967 Robert and his brother, Hans, bought their father’s trucking company to form Henningsen Brothers Trucking. In 1970 Robert purchased the Oscar Meyer Buying Station in Preston and renamed it Preston Order Buyers. Whenever his many friends and customers would come to the buying station, the kids were always given bubble gum and the adults were offered their choice of whiskey or peppermint. Robert worked hard and enjoyed every day of running his businesses and retired at the age of 77.

Robert graduated from Preston High School Class of 1950. He was a four-year member of the men’s baseball and basketball teams. Robert led the basketball team to two consecutive Jackson County championships and a first-place finish in the Jackson County Conference Tournament. He received honorable mention on the All-State team his junior and senior years. 

While in high school, if a bus driver was needed, the principal would get Robert out of class to drive the school bus. He would many times get out of school, drive a load of cattle to Chicago, and return in time for class the next morning.

On Sept. 6, 1952, Robert married Phyllis Meyer. They had three children - Gail, David and Daniel.

Robert enjoyed many hobbies that included playing poker, fishing, boating, camping, hunting, going on trail-rides, golfing, and often visiting the area bars and pubs. His many travels included trips to Alaska, California to visit his Henningsen cousins, Yellowstone, Washington D.C to see his sister Pat, visiting his brother Jim and sister Donna, and Oklahoma to visit his son David and family. In his later years, Robert often took his dog, Buddy, for long walks on the Preston Bike Trail. 

Robert was a very kind, giving, and generous person. He frequently visited friends in nursing homes and hospitals and attended pancake breakfasts and benefits. He was always there to help people in need.

He was a member of the Preston Fire Department, the Preston Saddle Club, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Preston, and a past Preston city councilman. 

Robert is survived by his children, Gail (James) Feller of Preston, David (Wendy) Henningsen of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and Daniel (Kelly) Henningsen of Preston; grandchildren, Jason (Casey) Feller, Valerie (Brad) Boeckenstedt, Derek Feller (Kaitlyn Carpenter), Jacob Henningsen, Brooke (Adrian) Cook, Brittney (Mitch) Stephens, Gena Henningsen, Emily Henningsen, and Zach Henningsen; great-grandchildren, Brady Griebel, Payton Griebel, Jaxon Feller, Isabelle Cook, Gavin Stephens, and Gabriel Stephens. He is also survived by five brothers and sisters, Donna Senecal of Kansas, Elaine (Gerald) Smithson of Preston, Jack “Hans” (Judy) Henningsen of Preston, Patricia (Dick) Overton of Virginia, and James Henningsen of Florida.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Tom Senecal.

Robert’s children thank Mill Valley Nursing Home, Eagle Point Skilled Care, Big Meadows Nursing Home, and the physicians and nurses at Mercy Medical Center in Clinton, Iowa for the care that was given to their dad.

Robert enjoyed a long and healthy life, and lived every day to its fullest. One of the last things he said was, “I have had a good life – I pretty much did whatever I wanted to do, whenever I wanted to do it.” Above all else, he loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Larry Browne

Larry Lee Browne, 81, of Lost Nation, passed away Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018, at his home in Lost Nation, Iowa.

A memorial service was held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, at Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation. Burial will be held at a later date at Smithtown Cemetery in rural Lost Nation. Arrangements are in care of Lahey & Dawson Funeral Service, Lost Nation.

Larry was born April 9, 1936, in Clinton, Iowa, to Roger William and Florence Irene (Kankel) Browne. He attended and graduated from Lost Nation High School. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Connie K. Holtz, April 2, 1955, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. He hauled grain as a truck driver and was a farmer.

He was a member of Union Presbyterian Church and was a Cub Scout and 4-H leader. He loved to attend baseball and basketball games. Larry was a very social person and would strike up a conversation with whomever he saw. He enjoyed shooting pool and was a jack of all trades.

Those left to cherish his memories are his wife, Connie; children, Sheree Segebert of Decorah, Randy (Cheryl) Browne of Pella, Mark (Chuck Cook) Browne of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; five grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister, Carole Browne of Fort Collins, Col.; and brother Paul (Cheryl) Browne of Greeley, Col.

He is preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Chuck.

Memorials may be directed to Camp Wyoming in Larry’s honor.

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

Leonard Wynkoop

Leonard H. Wynkoop, 91, of Wyoming, Iowa, passed away Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, at Clarence Nursing Home in Clarence, Iowa.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 6:45 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with a celebration of life service beginning at 7 p.m. A private burial will be held at a later date from Cady Cemetery, rural Wyoming, Iowa.

Leonard Henry Wynkoop was born Oct. 31, 1926, in DeWitt, Iowa, to Bernice (Quick) and Leonard Henry Wynkoop, Sr. He was raised by his paternal grandparents, Wallace and Amelia Wynkoop. He was a graduate of Delmar High School where he met the love of his life, Phyllis Jane Sleeper. They were married June 15, 1947, in Delmar, Iowa, and to this union five children were born: Marianne, Brenda, Susan, Todd, and Timm.

Leonard was a farmer all his life and was known as “Scoop” by many of his friends. In Delmar, he also worked as a butcher. He moved his family to Wyoming, Iowa, in 1958, and later to what became the family farm. He also worked part-time for 25 years at the United Livestock Sale Barn in Maquoketa. After “retiring” as a dairy farmer, he raised and sold registered Paint horses and Boer goats.

Leonard and Jane were lifetime members of the Baldwin Saddle Club. He was also a member of the Wyoming United Methodist Church and the Cedar Valley Coonhunters. They were both very involved in community projects and they made a difference.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Jane Wynkoop of Clarence; three daughters, Marianne (Vern) Oepping of Estes Park, Colo., Brenda Degner of Muscatine, Iowa, and Susan Hellmer of Plymouth, Wis.; two sons, Todd Wynkoop (Sue) of Clarence and Timm Wynkoop (Lori) of Oxford Junction, Iowa; grandchildren, Mark (Jean) Tasker and their children Hunter and Evan; Michelle Tasker; Angela (Jay) Degner-Tuffing; Matt (Tiffany) Degner and their children Emily Degner, and sons Tyler and Trevor Miller; Travis (Jessica) Hellmer; Stacey (Riley) Williams; Lacey Wynkoop; Lindsey Wynkoop; Tara (Steve) Weir and their children Chloe, Cooper, Keegan and Kaitlynn; Dana (Jeramie) Ellefson and their children Jordyn and Payton; and Erin (Nick) Brus and their children Mason and Noah. Also surviving is Leonard’s aunt “Auntie” Evelyn Griebel.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and paternal grandparents. 

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Wyoming Betterment Committee, Wyoming Museum, Midland Fire Department or Ambulance Service, or the Wyoming Library.

Leonard’s family express their appreciation to all the staff at Clarence Senior Living for their loving and compassionate care of Leonard.

Leave condolences online at www.carsonandson.com.

Bertha Goettler

Bertha Goettler, 102, of Bellevue, Iowa, passed away at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.

A funeral service for Bertha will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 16, at St. John Lutheran Church. A visitation will be held Thursday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Friday morning from 9:30-10 a.m. at the church.

Bertha was born in Waco, Nebraska, on March 15, 1915. She moved with her parents and siblings to Illinois a few years later where she spent her early years.

She graduated from Cissna Park High School and attended nurses training in Sioux City, Iowa, where she received her registered nursing degree. She worked as a nurse in California, Iowa and Illinois. 

She met her husband William in Chicago where they were married and lived for several years before moving to Iowa. Bertha worked both as a private-duty and floor nurse at Finley Hospital in Dubuque and Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa where she became the medical floor supervisor.

After retirement, she and William traveled in Europe and the Middle East. She and William also traveled in the United States and Canada on extensive camping trips.

In later years, Bertha again traveled to Europe with a tour group and later a safari trip to South Africa. She loved photography and captured many outstanding pictures on her travels.

Bertha spent many hours in her flower garden, delighting in the admiring comments from Bellevue residents who walked by her yard in the spring and summer. She was active in church and community activities, one of which was her participation in the Butterfly Garden at Bellevue State Park.

At Mill Valley Care Center, where she resided most recently, she took up painting and knitting. 

Bertha has completed her earthly mission and joined her Lord and Savior and is now with her departed family members and friends in heaven.

Her survivors include her son, William (Mary Ann) Goettler, and daughter Judith (David) Krause; grandchildren Jennifer (John) Beckman, Jon (Jenn) Goettler, Drew (Leslie-Sanchez) Goettler; step-granddaughters Rachelle (Brent) Sharrer, Aysha (Rob) Hall, and step-grandson Charles (Kayte) Emery; great-grandchildren Jameson and William Beckman, Ethan and Evan Goettler, Jordan and Sophia Goettler, Ben, Nick and Kate Sharrer, Graycen and Emma Hall, and Morgan and Corwin Emery; niece Karen Niebuh; and nephew Norman Taylor.

She was preceded in death by her father, Christian Koester; her mother, Eliza (Hoppman) Koester; and five siblings. Her husband, William, preceded her in 1989.

The family extends a special thank-you to Mill Valley Care Center and Hospice of Jackson County.

Memorials may be made to Bremwood Residential Treatment, Waverly, Iowa, and the American Cancer Society.

Gwendola Till

Gwendola Mary Till, 90, of Maquoketa, put all her eggs in one basket and gave the basket to God. That is how she lived her entire life, trusting in the Lord. 

On Saturday, Feb. 10, Gwendola received her angel wings. She will be honored with a funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. A visitation is planned from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18, also at the church, with the rosary at 1:30. Burial will be at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Andrew.

Born Jan. 22, 1928, the eldest of 13 children, to Arnold and Clara (Weis) Steines of Springbrook, Iowa, Gwendola learned the importance of hard work and prayer. As a young girl she loved school and was even promoted several grades within a single school year. Even though she had looked forward to high school, she did not have the opportunity to attend, as she was needed at home to help with farm chores and household work, and to help care for her younger siblings. 

After World War II and having lived through the depression, Gwendola fell in love with and married Merlin Till of Andrew on June 14, 1949. Together they farmed near Andrew, milking cows, growing corn and hay, and raising beef, chickens and their 14 children. 

Not only was Gwendola “book” smart, she had common sense. She used her organizational and multi-tasking skills every day as she raised her large family.

Gwendola truly enjoyed being a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Andrew. She wasn’t just an active member, she was part of its heartbeat. In addition to serving on Rosary Society, parish council and as a circle leader, she sang in the choir and taught religion class for many years. Her faith was evident in the many people’s lives she touched, teaching them about Christ’s love as they joined the Catholic community. For more than 60 years, Gwendola led the rosary before Sunday morning mass.

Gwendola’s example of God’s love impacted the lives of so many people, including her 14 children, Arnold (Sharon) of Camanche, Kenneth (Karin) of Maquoketa, Cletus (Anna) of Bellevue, Allan (Karen) of Maquoketa, Barbara (Loras) Deppe of Bellevue, Judy (John) Schaefer of Preston, Stephen (Lori) of Springbrook, Thomas (JoDee) of Dyersville, Mary (Kevin) Rupp of Maquoketa, Diane (Gary) DeVilbiss of Ossian, Jeff of Bellevue, Rick (Dawn) of Casselberry, Florida, Ruth (Terry) Beek of Bellevue, and Carolyn (Joe) Kilburg of Lisbon.

Gwendola is blessed with 40 grandchildren, Becky, Paula, Peter, Travis, Lance, Rhonda, Rachael, Tina, Tiffany, Mike, Matt, Marissa, Mark, Nichelle, Jessalyn, Ben, Jessica, Jill, Jamie, Faith, Brittany, Jolynn, Katelynn, Trevyn, Trenae, Trenessa, Mikael, Jennika, Jayden, Kennidee, Paxten, Wylee, Sofia, Jordan, Allison, Alex, Conrad, McKenna, Kaden and Kiah. She has 38 great-grandchildren with another due in April; and one great-great-grandchild.

Gwendola is also survived by two brothers, Roger (Jan) Steines of Springbrook and Larry (Patti) Steines of Dubuque; and eight sisters, Betty (Dick) Fleege of Summerfield, Florida, Iona (Harold) Koppes of Dubuque, Sister Shirley Steines of Lamberton, Minnesota, Marlene Steines of Aurora, Colorado, Mary Jo (Gary) Beohm of Ankeny, and Kelma (Bob) Michels, Darlene Sieverding, and Bonnie Charboneau, all of Bellevue.

In addition to her parents, her husband, Merlin, who passed away in 1999, and a special little great-grand-angel Addilynn Brockmeyer will welcome Gwendola into heaven. Also preceding her in death are her brother, Merrice Steines and his wife Phyllis; sister Madonna McCloy and her husband Joe; sisters-in-law Shirley Monner and Darlene Kilburg and her husband Norman; and brothers-in-law Ray Charboneau, Tom Sieverding and Lavern Till.

Gwendola’s family is extremely thankful to Hospice of Jackson County for all their care and compassion for the past six months. Arrangements are through Hachmann Funeral Home in Bellevue.

Esther Dosland

Esther Dosland, 100, of Lost Nation passed away Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. A visitation will be held on Tuesday from 9 -10:30 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Burial will be at the Lost Nation Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of Lahey & Dawson Funeral Service, Lost Nation. 

Esther was born on Nov. 26, 1917 to Edward and Mary (Widemann) Huebbe in Clinton County. She attended Calamus Schools and graduated in 1936. She married Raymond Lewis Dosland on June 15, 1938 in Clinton County.  

Esther was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation, Iowa. She enjoyed sewing and cooking. She spent much of her time in her kitchen and was an excellent baker and always had goodies for whomever would stop to visit. 

Those left to cherish her memories are her two children, Clay Dosland of Wyoming, Marty (Donna) Dosland of Lost Nation, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Raymond, daughter-in-law Sherry, sister Anna and a brother Duane. 

Memorials may be directed to Esther’s family in her honor.

Online condolences may be left at www.laheys.com

Gary Tracy

Gary Tracy, 76, of Maquoketa. passed away Friday, Feb. 2, 2018, at Baywood Medical Center in Mesa, Arizona. 

His funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. A visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 11, from 2-5 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial with military rights will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Maquoketa. Arrangements are in care of Lahey & Dawson Funeral Service, Maquoketa. 

Gary Dean was born April 30, 1941, in Baldwin, Iowa, to Thelman and Vera Alberta (Edwards) Tracy. He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1958. After graduating he faithfully and honorably served in the United States Army for three years. He farmed most of his life on his home farm in rural Baldwin. 

Gary was united in marriage to the love of his life, Joyce Hughes, on July 24, 1967, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. In 1991 they purchased TnT Dynamite Cone Shop in Maquoketa where for 17 years he enjoyed visiting with anyone who came in and giving away many ice cream cones to children. He was a seeds salesman and district supervisor for Fontanelle Hybrids Seeds for over 20 years. 

After retiring they spent their winters in Arizona. Gary was someone who very much enjoyed life and living life through others lives, he would stop with a smile and a laugh to visit with anyone he saw while out and about in his Jeep with his sidekick Harley. He enjoyed playing golf, riding his trike, playing Dirty Board, attending the casino and tinkering with his antique John Deere tractors. Over the years he taught many people how to drive vehicles, motorcycles and tractors. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he often attended any school functions they were involved in.

Those left to cherish his memories are his wife of 50 years, Joyce of Maquoketa; two children, Brian (Patti) Tracy of Wyoming and Tara (Mitch) Michel of Baldwin; three grandchildren, Cody Tracy, Sidney Michel, Grant Michel; a close niece, Jo Dee Tracy of Maquoketa; and five siblings, Dylon Tracy of Maquoketa, Ronald (Kay) Tracy of Maquoketa, JoAnn Sikes of Texas, Carol Jean Klinefelter of Clinton, and Mary Jo Williams of Maquoketa; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Harley. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Mitch Higgins.  

In lieu of flowers memorials may be left to Gary’s family in his honor. 

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

Janet Howell

Janet D. Howell, 65, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side at 5:51 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018.

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Janet Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Janet Denise Horkheimer was born Feb. 21, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Edwin and Irene (Broadhead) Horkheimer. She grew up in Dubuque and married Dennis Howell Aug. 16, 1969; they had three children together. They later divorced in 1991.

Janet worked for several years at DynaGear, Hoof, Wady’s and Pacific Coast Feather Factory. She enjoyed fishing, puzzles, reading, playing dice and cards, and spending time with her grandchildren and three boys.

She is survived by her three boys, Jeffrey (Danielle) Howell of Maquoketa, Duane (Dana) Howell of Maquoketa, and Jeromy (Brandi) Howell of Maquoketa; 11 grandchildren, Meagan, Taylan (Katelynn), Kansas, Theresa, Aubrey, Alison, Tinsley, Marcus, Tayden and Teagyn; her siblings, John (Carol) Horkheimer of Dubuque, Paul (Judy) Horkheimer of Dubuque, and Mary Wharton of Dubuque; many nieces and nephews; and her aunts and uncles, Doris Parr of Soldiers Grove, Wis., Helen (Donnie) Parr of Viroqua, Wis., George (LuAnn) Broadhead of Wisconsin, Jim (Liz) Broadhead of Wisconsin, Darrel Broadhead of Wisconsin, and Eustace Horkheimer of Michigan. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; nephew, Jimmy Wharton; granddaughters, Averee, Olivia and Gabriella Howell; and special friend, Dave Leibfried.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Janet D. Howell memorial fund has been established.

Leave online condolences at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Barbara Anderson

Barbara S. Anderson, 68, of Preston, Iowa, passed away Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 9, 2018 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Preston. Burial will take place in Preston Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4 – 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Preston. Memorials may be given to St. John’s, Susan G. Komen Dept. 41831 P.O. Box 650309 Dallas, TX 75265, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Friends and family are invited to share in Barb’s life at www.lawjonesfuneralhome.com.

Barb was born July 8, 1949, in Iowa City, the daughter of John Fredrick and Lois (Billings) Boeye. She attended Red Oak High School in Red Oak, Iowa and graduated with the Class of 1967. After high school, Barb attended the University of Iowa where she received her Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree in 1972. While attending college, Barb met the love of her life Kenneth Anderson and they married on June 17, 1972. They celebrated 45 years of marriage. Barb and Ken owned and operated Anderson Pharmacy in Preston for 41 years.

Barb was a Girl Scout all her life and held many positions including Grants Farm Day Camp Director in Preston. She was a member of the St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Preston. She was also very active in the Preston community. Barb was a two-time cancer survivor. She enjoyed cooking, reading, doing a daily crossword puzzle and attending Iowa Hawkeye football games. Barb cherished the time she spent with her friends and family.

Barb will be dearly missed by husband Ken; two daughters, Jennifer (John) Lane of Williamsburg, Iowa, Wendy (Erik) Aanonson of Bondurant, Iowa; grandchildren, Annalissa, Sam Lane, Jaycie, Natalie Aanonson; brothers, Bill (Jenny) Boeye of Red Oak and Bob (Peggy) Boeye of Red Oak. 

Barb was preceded in death by her parents.

Rodney Benedix

Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 9, 2018, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Rodney Eugene Benedix was born on Oct. 5, 1955, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Dale Eugene and Dolores Virginia (Wendel) Benedix.  Rod was a 1973 graduate of Moville, Iowa, High School and then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1977 and his music endorsement from Loras College in Dubuque in 1992. He married Rebecca Ann Conry on July 28, 1979, in Moville, Iowa and they had two children, Ashley Ann-Marie and Katherine JoAnn. 

Rod first worked as the K-5 Elementary Music Instructor for the Midland Community Schools from 1992 to 1998. He then became the 6th through 8th grade Vocal Music Instructor for Maquoketa Community Schools from 1998 to 2014. 

Rod was of the Lutheran faith being baptized on Nov. 27, 1955, in Correctionville, Iowa, and confirmed on May 4, 1969, in Holstein, Iowa. He had been a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa where he had served as a part-time organist from 1983 to 2017. He had also been a former member of the Iowa State Education Association and the Iowa Choral Directors Association.

Rod loved his family and especially loved giving presents at Christmas and birthdays. He especially enjoyed cooking Thanksgiving dinner with his Aunt Katherine for 20 years, having lunch with Katie, always knowing that Ashley had his back, watching Becky change the decorating in the house each and every holiday, taking his mom out to lunch at Red Lobster and shopping with her at Younkers, and family time with his girls.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Benedix of Maquoketa, IA; daughters, Ashley Ann-Marie Benedix of Beaver Dam, WI, and Katherine JoAnn Benedix of Marion, IA; his mother Dolores Benedix of Moville, IA; brothers, Steven Benedix of Renton, WA, Kelly (Suzanne) Benedix of Moville, IA, and Brian (Rochelle Ehlers) Benedix of Moville, IA; sisters, Lisa (Eric) Hunter of Federal Way, WA, and Kimberly (Alberto) Laureano of Temple, TX; step-mother-in-law, Joyce Conry of Orange City, IA; brother-in-law, Dennis (Rita) Conry of Moville, IA; sisters-in-law, Leanna Bottger of Moville, IA, and Janette Conry of West Des Moines, IA; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and special canine granddogs, Cali and Betsy; and grandcat, Tigger.  

He was preceded in death by his father Dale Benedix, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Shirley Conry, maternal grandparents Emile and Ida Wendel, paternal grandparents Fred and Marie Benedix, and numerous aunts and uncles.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix memorial fund has been established with funds being divided toward the following: a scholarship for a Maquoketa High School graduate who is a continuing vocal music major, First Lutheran Church Choir fund, and Trinity Lutheran Church in Moville, Iowa, toward the kitchen fund.

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