Kramer-Morris Funeral Home

12/17/2025

Marvin L. Marsh

MONTICELLO, IOWA

Marvin L. Marsh, 91, of Monticello, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Monticello Nursing & Rehab in Monticello, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 2 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa. Visitation will continue at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Monday prior to funeral services.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic in Monticello with burial to be held at a later date. Rev. Isaac Boadu will officiate with Deacon Ed Goldsmith assisting.

Marvin was born on March 20, 1934, in Monticello, Iowa, son of William and Helen (Boots) Marsh. He married Joan Russ on February 7, 1959, in Delhi, Iowa. Marv worked at Rockwell Collins for several years, retiring there in 1993. Together they enjoyed taking a car ride on Sunday and stopping for ice cream at Dairy Queen. They also looked forward to spending time at their home away from home on the beach at Corpus Christi on North Padre Island.

He was a proud United States Army Veteran. Marv loved playing cards with friends, cherishing time with his family, and looking forward to a great golf outing with friends or family.

Survivors include his children: David (Linda) Marsh of Monticello, Pam (Jim) Melchert of Hopkinton, Doug (Kim) Marsh, Peggy (Ron) Leick both of Dyersville; grandchildren; Stephanie (David Robinson) Marsh, Tim (Heather) Marsh, Matt (Kylie) Melchert, Mitch (Kyla) Melchert, and Jesse (Shai Schuldt) Melchert, Blake (Ella) Marsh and Courtney Leick, three great grandchildren: Reid Robinson, Riley Robinson, Grant Melchert; brother, Ken Marsh; in-laws: Janice Russ and Marcia Russ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joan in 2020; brothers: Paul, Bill, Robert, Richard; sisters: Dorothy Janssen, Helen Schneider, Adelia Eilers, and Lynn Starks.

He was a proud United States Army Veteran. Marv loved playing cards with friends, cherishing time with his family, and looking forward to a great golf outing with friends or family.

Survivors include his children: David (Linda) Marsh of Monticello, Pam (Jim) Melchert of Hopkinton, Doug (Kim) Marsh, Peggy (Ron) Leick both of Dyersville; grandchildren; Stephanie (David Robinson) Marsh, Tim (Heather) Marsh, Matt (Kylie) Melchert, Mitch (Kyla) Melchert, and Jesse (Shai Schuldt) Melchert, Blake (Ella) Marsh and Courtney Leick, three great grandchildren: Reid Robinson, Riley Robinson, Grant Melchert; brother, Ken Marsh; in-laws: Janice Russ and Marcia Russ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joan in 2020; brothers: Paul, Bill, Robert, Richard; sisters: Dorothy Janssen, Helen Schneider, Adelia Eilers, and Lynn Starks.

The family would like to thank the staff at Monticello Nursing & Rehab, Above & Beyond Hospice, and Monticello Emergency Services for their care.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

View Marvin L. Marsh's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/17/2025

Myrna B. Tangeman Schmelzer

MCGREGOR, IOWA

Myrna B. (Adney) Tangeman Schmelzer, 86, of McGregor, passed away Monday, December 15, 2025, at Emplify Health Center in LaCrosse, WI.

Visitation will be held 3 – 7 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home in Garnavillo, Iowa. Visitation will continue at 10 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Garnavillo on Saturday, prior to funeral services.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Garnavillo, Iowa with burial at Garnavillo Community Cemetery. Rev. Gary Hatcher will officiate. Funeral service will be livestreamed on First and St. Paul's Lutheran Church page.

Myrna was born January 3, 1939, in Mendon Township in McGregor, Iowa, daughter of Archie and Adeline (Kamp) Adney. She married Fred Tangeman on October 19, 1957, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garnavillo, Iowa. Fred later passed away on March 20, 1989. She married Gene Schmelzer on December 10, 1994. Together, they owned and operated Paradise Valley. Gene later passed away on August 31, 2003.

Myrna helped on the farm with her family and can be remembered for milking cows or bailing hay barefoot. She loved cooking and baking, especially her pancakes with elderberry syrup and several delicious pies at the Clayton County Fair stand.

She was very active with her church, teaching Sunday School and holding a position on the Parish Council. She loved her annual girls’ trip with her daughters and granddaughters. She was proud to keep a daily diary beginning on her 12th birthday for over 70 years.

Survivors include her children: Greg (Kathy) Tangeman of Prairie Du Chien, WI, Denise (Jerry) Wilke of Elkader, Brenda Oehlerich of Iowa City, Monica (Kevin) Olmstead of Mount Hope, WI; grandchildren: Litisha (Justin) Spies, Tanya (Glenn) Wolcott, Tammy (Allen) Stanley, Matthew (Caitlin Bittner) Wilke, Kendra (Mitch Rosburg) Wilke, Jared Reynolds, Luke (Morgan) Oehlerich, Lara Oehlerich, Justice Olmstead, Jasmine (Joseph Johnson) Olmstead; 12 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; siblings: June (Bernell) Larson, Sharon Peters, Allen Adney; special friend, Bob Bente; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Fred Tangeman and Gene Schmelzer; son in infancy, Timothy Tangeman; and grandsons: Ross and Ryan Wilke; brother in infancy, Alton Adney; in-laws: Gene Peters and LaVerna Adney.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Maple Crest Campus, Garnavillo Historical Society, or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Garnavillo.

The family would like to thank the staff at Maple Crest Campus in Fayette for their compassionate care for the last six months. Also, a special thank you to Bob Bente for his friendship and care through the years.

Morris Funeral Home in Garnavillo is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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12/11/2025

Joseph C. Ironside

MONTICELLO, IOWA

Joseph C. Ironside, 93, of Rockford, Illinois, formerly of Monticello, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

A visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 210 East 3rd Street, Monticello, Iowa, on Thursday, December 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Funeral mass will begin at 11 a.m. with a eulogy and remembrance at the end of the funeral mass. Burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Coggon, Iowa.

Joe was born near Coggon, Iowa to James and Stella Ironside on Jan. 13, 1932. He went to Coggon High School where he excelled in basketball and baseball and graduated in 1950. Joe earned a Certificate at Cedar Rapids Barber College and then enlisted in the United States Navy where he cut officer’s hair and ran the commissary.

He married Donna J. Kremer, his high school sweetheart in June 1954. (67 years). Joe worked for the Postal Service for 36 years, culminating as the Postmaster in Monticello. Upon retirement, he volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Monticello Chamber of Commerce, and the Board of Camp Courageous. Joe was a devout Catholic, a family man, and a consummate storyteller. He was a life-long sports fan, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs. Joe was an avid dancer and music lover. Upon retirement, Joe became a “scratch” golfer and was invited to try out for the PGA Senior Tour. Joe and Donna wintered as snowbirds in Texas for 25 years. The couple travelled to all 50 states and 17 different countries with the Friendship Force. Joe was a friendly soul and will be greatly missed.

Joe is survived by 6 children; siblings, Stephen P. Ironside, Mary Jo Ironside-Ross (Joe), Christopher E. Ironside (Ann), Matthew J. Ironside (Megumi), Theresa M. Ironside and Jonathon P. Ironside (Anna); and 11 grandchildren: Daniel Ironside (Abigail), Bridget Ironside (Neil), Emily Ross (Robert), Jessica Ross (Alex), Benjamin Ross (Michael), Acadia Floyd (fiancé Max Riley) and the twins, Emma Floyd and Charles Floyd, Henry Ironside, Purple Ironside, and Ari Ironside.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Donna, parents James and Stella Ironside, siblings; Eloise Stockwell, Catherine O’Rouke, E.J. Ironside, Gerald Ironside and two children; Kathyrn D. Ironside and J. Michael Ironside (Julie Steffen).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Camp Courageous, Monticello, Iowa.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family, please visit the funeral home website at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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12/08/2025

Kenneth J. Lewis

MONTICELLO, IOWA

Kenneth J. Lewis, 81, of Monticello, Iowa, passed away Friday, December 5, 2025, at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello, Iowa.

Funeral Services will commence at 11 a.m. with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded.

Ken was born April 14, 1944, in Monticello, Iowa, son of Donald and Evelyn (Supple) Lewis. Ken graduated from Monticello High School and was drafted to the United States Air Force. After his service, he came back to Monticello and held several jobs and eventually accepted a job at Anamosa State Penitentiary for many years. Ken enjoyed playing cards, golfing, fishing, and traveling to competitions with his beagles.

Survivors include his children: Shawn (Laura) Lewis, Stacie (CJ) Sullivan; grandson, Lucas Sullivan; siblings: Madonna (Steve) Koob, and Terry (Linda) Lewis.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Mary (Carl) Gudenkauf, Gerri (Chuck) Pierce, Peg (Carl) Merfeld, and JoAnn (Ron) Egger, Maynard Lewis; and his beloved beagle, Honey Bea.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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12/05/2025

Frederick A. Schieltz

LUXEMBURG, IOWA

Frederick A. Schieltz, of Guttenberg, formerly of Luxemburg, passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Guttenberg Care Center in Guttenberg, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Fred was born February 28, 1942, in Luxemburg, Iowa, son of Nick and Julitta (Meis) Schieltz. He married Carol on September 20, 1985, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Survivors include his brother, Richard (Diane) Schieltz of Luxemburg; nephews: Jason (Tammy) Schieltz and children, Claire and Grant of Luxemburg, Cory (Lesley) Schieltz and children, Chloe and Ellie of Marion; niece, Kari (Matt) Nickol and children, Gavin and Marcela of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Carol in 2019.

The family would like to thank the staff at Guttenberg Care Center, St. Croix Hospice, and River Living Center in Guttenberg.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Fred’s honor.

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

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12/04/2025

Brenda P. Herzog

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

Brenda P. Herzog, 78 of Guttenberg, Iowa passed away Monday, December 1, 2025, at Elkader Care Center, Elkader, Iowa.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Bethel Cemetery near Colesburg, Iowa.

Brenda was born on February 9, 1947, in Knoxville, Tennessee, daughter of Eugene and Daisy Lewson. She married Merlin Herzog on Jun 6, 1964, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Guttenberg, Iowa.

Brenda was a very hard worker and held several jobs. She enjoyed her time with family and friends and will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her husband, Merlin; son, Jason Herzog of Guttenberg; and numerous relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, parents-in-law, Earl and Fern Herzog; and daughter, Michelle Parker in 2011.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Dyersville, Holy Cross and Monticello is assisting the family. Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneral.com.

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11/27/2025

In this season of gratitude, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the families who have entrusted us with their loved ones!

May your Thanksgiving be filled with cherished memories and moments of peace!

11/25/2025

Irvin H. Borgerding

DYERSVILLE, IOWA

Irvin Henry Borgerding, 87, of Dyersville, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at his home.

Born in a farmhouse one quarter mile east of Bankston, he was the son of Ben and Mary (Klas) Borgerding, on the 23rd of October 1938. He attended St. Clement’s school in Bankston for eight grades and, after Ben bought a farm in Holy Cross, he attended and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1956. He worked on the farm and helped the neighbors when they needed help. He was a hired man for Louis Recker, Vincent Maiers and John Klostermann until drafted into the Army in October of 1961. He had Basic and Second training at Fort Carson, Colorado. He was then sent to 5142 Missile Battalion in Aschaffenburg Germany. He was discharged in August 1963 from the Army.

On November 20, 1965, he was united in marriage to Joyce Krapfl in St. Boniface church in New Vienna. They were blessed with five children. They farmed in Balltown, Worthington and New Vienna until 1992 when they sold the farm and retired to Dyersville. He then worked at Lumber Specialties LTD for 16.5 years, before retiring in 2008. He volunteered to cut lawns around church, school and convent. He opened school doors on Wednesday nights for the Faith Formation children. Also served food for Xavier elementary school kids until Covid 19 shut that down.

He enjoyed playing cards (Euchre, Solo and 500) among friends and relatives. With kids and grandchildren, he played Canasta, Garbage, Back up 3, Village Idiot, Phase 10, UNO, Wizard, and Dominoes. He was a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post 137, Dubuque County Farm Bureau for over 60 years, and St. Francis Xavier Parish.

He is survived by his five children: Susan (Gary) Bries Jackson, WI, Rose (Todd) Shafer of Ankeny IA, Robert Borgerding of Havelock NC, Ann Orrison of Dyersville IA, and Paul (Laura) Borgerding of Dubuque IA; eight grandchildren: Brian Bries, Jennifer (Luc) Bries, Julie Bries, Sarah (fiancé, Riley Martin) Shafer, Ben Shafer, Heather (Josh) LaBarbera, Randal Orrison and Cordel (Ciera) Orrison; great-grandchild, Oliver Irvin Orrison; siblings: Helen Cigrand of Dubuque IA, Richard (Marilyn) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA, Mary Jane Johnson of Harrisburg PA, Carol (Tom) Beringer of Farley IA, Wilma Jesenovec of Hopkinton IA, and Loras (Jean) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA; in-laws: Alice Langel of Dyersville IA, Doris Langel of Dyersville IA, Donna (James) Kluesner of Luxemburg IA, Inez (Bernie) Kluesner of New Vienna IA, and David (LuAnn) Krapfl of New Vienna, IA.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce; parents, Ben and Mary Borgerding; sister, Donna (Richard) Smith; in-laws: Lawrence and Laurine Krapfl, David Johnson, Ernest Jesenovec, Gene (Betty) Krapfl, Francis Langel, Melvin Langel, and Marian (Ed) Hermsen; nephews: Mark Langel and Gene Kluesner; nieces: Gail Dietrick and Rebecca Krapfl.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home where a military service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral services.

Funeral service will be held at 10: 30 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with the interment in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made out to Hospice of Dubuque.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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11/22/2025

Donald R. Schmitt

HOLY CROSS, IOWA

Donald R. Schmitt, 88, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away November 21, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross where a military service will commence at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to the funeral mass.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #656. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Don was born April 22, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, the son of Charles “Chas” and Bertha (Meyer) Schmitt. He graduated from Holy Cross Catholic High School and Loras College in Dubuque. On November 26, 1960, he married Janet Decker from Balltown, and together they operated the “Schmitt Century Farm” near Holy Cross for 34 years. During this time Don also taught German and Language Arts at Leo High School in Holy Cross, and for the Western Dubuque School District in Farley and Epworth, where he developed many life-long friends.

They raised their three children on the farm, and together as a family restored a former stagecoach stop built in 1849 as their home. Known as “Pin Oak”, it was settled in 1836, ten years before the State of Iowa was founded. It was on the Dubuque-St. Paul Stage Trail, and it served as a hotel and a post office. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. The preservation of history was very important to Don and Janet, and they placed a picture of Pin Oak on their cemetery headstone.

Don served six years in the Army’s 389th engineer battalion, and he was a member of the Farley American Legion Post 656. He was a Commissioner for the Dubuque County Soil and Water Conservation District for 12 years, and also served as its Chairman. In 1972, he received the Outstanding Young Farmer award. He was a member of the Heritage Foundation, the Reagan Ranch Foundation, National Rifle Association, Dubuque County Right to Life, the Clarity Clinic, and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Don served the Holy Cross Catholic Church as an altar boy, lector, and choir member where he would sing in German the song Stille Nacht at Christmas. He was active on the church and school boards. Many years ago, it was tradition for the priest to be the only lector at Mass. When this custom was changed, Father Hemesath asked Don to become the first lay reader at Holy Cross Church. Don lectored from that day until 3 weeks ago.

His interests included traveling, especially to German-speaking countries, and writing letters to the editors of various newspapers on political issues. Don enjoyed fi****ms, antique tractors, and attending events with the Guttenberg River Park Cruisers, where he and Janet drove their 1956 T-Bird and 1958 Oldsmobile.

Don was known for his great sense of humor. He always had a joke or funny story that he delivered with perfect comedic timing. And who can forget when Don stood on stage in the Holy Cross gym as Rodney Dangerfield, performing a lengthy stand up while adjusting his uncomfortable red tie and declaring, “I don’t get any respect!” He also enjoyed impersonating Willie Nelson, singing various songs.

Survivors include his children Jeff (Linda) Schmitt of Holy Cross, Dave (Wendy) Schmitt of Omaha, NE, and Lisa (Dan) Bowen of Kansas City, KS; grandchildren Michael (Hali) Schmitt, Katelyn Schmitt, John Schmitt, Matt (Libby) Schmitt, Danny Bowen, Nicole Schmitt, Nicholas Bowen, and Adam Schmitt; great-grandchildren Harrison Schmitt and Wyatt Schmitt; in-laws John Decker, Larry (Trudy) Decker, Kathy Koch, and Ann (Andy) Baumann; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Janet; parents; parents-in-law Lawrence and Loretta (Hefel) Decker; sister LaVonne; and in-laws Joan and Les Feldmann, and Steve Koch.

Don is an example of a life well lived. By his death he answered the call, etched in German on his tombstone, “Kommet mit Mir und ruhuet in Frieden” (Come with Me and rest in Peace).

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque for their kind, compassionate care.

Memorials may be given to LaSalle School or Holy Cross Parish in Holy Cross, Iowa.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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11/19/2025

Robert D. Jones

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

Robert Dean Jones, 80, of Guttenberg, Iowa, formerly of Oskaloosa, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 18, 2025, at Regional Medical Center in Manchester, Iowa.

A visitation will be held at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Iowa, on Sunday, November 23, from 1-3 p.m.

An inurnment service will take place at a later date in Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa, Iowa.

Robert (Bob) was born on January 22, 1945, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Hubert and Hazel Jones. He grew up in Fairfield, Iowa, and graduated from Fairfield High School in 1963. He went on to complete an engineering program at Greer Technical School in Chicago. On April 16, 1965, Bob was united in marriage to Joyce D. Kitchen in Fairfield, Iowa. In 1972, they moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa while working for Intraco, Corporation as head of their engineering and design. He was an active member and volunteer at the First Church of the Nazarene. Bob’s hobbies included hunting, woodworking, fixing up cars, and watching NASCAR races.

He had a gift for understanding how things worked and was known for doing his own home and car repairs. He took pride in helping others and cherished spending time with family. Following the loss of his wife Joyce, Bob moved to Guttenberg, Iowa, where he married Pat Lau on October 25, 1997.

They enjoyed traveling, cruising, and spending time on the family farm. In Guttenberg, Bob worked as an engineer for Kann Manufacturing until his retirement. Throughout his career as a manufacturing engineer, Bob designed and invented equipment, and his name appears on a number of patents. His work took him across the country and overseas where he helped to implement new designs.

Robert is survived by his wife, Pat Jones of Guttenberg; his son, Randy (Darcy) Jones of Woodbury, Minnesota; his daughter, Amy (Scott) Lewis of Shawnee, Kansas; and his stepdaughter, Kecia Lau of Las Vegas, Nevada. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Drew, Adam, Amelia, Brooke, Alex, and Zachary; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Joyce; and siblings: Carol Miksch, Richard Jones, Sharon Ewing, and Mike Jones; brother-in-law, Bill Turner; and sister-in-law Carol Morarend.

Bob will be remembered for his ingenuity, kindness, and his devotion to his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Croix Hospice or Guttenberg Family Resource Center.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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11/17/2025

Michael F. Pirc

DYERSVILLE, IOWA

Michael F. Pirc, 66, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held 3 – 7 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10:30 a.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery.

Mike was born May 24, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Francis “Pete” and Marilyn (Rausch) Pirc. He married the love of his life, Denise Recker, on May 8, 1981, in Manchester, Iowa.

Mike was a quiet, humble man who always knew the perfect time to pull out his quick wit. He dedicated more than 40 years to the construction industry, building outdoor structures and teaching his kids to work hard for the things they wanted in life. He was a proud and avid Iowa Hawkeye fan who rarely missed a game and carried his Black and Gold pride to every Iowa sporting event he could attend. Above all, he was a devoted family man who never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren, attending every event he could – from sporting events to school programs, county fairs, and everything in between. After retirement, Mike enjoyed helping his family in any way he could – assisting with construction projects, milking cows and helping around the farm. His presence, his encouragement, and his unwavering love for his wife, Denise, will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Denise; children: Austin (Carrie) Pirc of Farley, Sean (fiance Niki) Pirc of Manchester, Megan (Jason) Lehman of Sherrill; mother, Marilyn Pirc of Dyersville; grandchildren: Jesse, Gage, Brianna, Aubrey, Anna, Claire and Ella; siblings: Karen (Dean) Knepper, Pat (Shirley) Pirc, Sandy (Chad) Pereboom, Tim (Peggy) Pirc, Dave (Bob) Pirc, Ron (Judy) Pirc, Russ (Tracy) Pirc, Jim (Jan) Pirc, Ann (Dean) Jorgensen, Amy (Kevin) Weber, and Kenny Pirc; and several in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Charlie Lehman; his father, Pete Pirc; his parents-in-law, Julius and Delores Recker; brothers-in-law: Richard, Merle, Kevin, and Dennis Recker; sisters-in-law: Michelle Pirc, Christine and Jean Recker.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be sent to Beckman Catholic High School.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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11/16/2025

Ronald L. Backes

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

Ronald Lester Backes, 69, of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away Saturday, November 15, 2025, at his home.

Visitation will be held 4-6 pm. Wednesday November 19, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Iowa. Inurnment will be held at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 11a.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Ronald was born in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Lester and Helen (Loewen) Backes. He married Betty Ann Allen on November 29, 1975, and they welcomed two children, Mandy and Levi. Their union dissolved, but they remained life-long friends and continued to share family celebrations and demonstrated beautifully how to put family first, even after divorce.

Ron attended Clinton Community College for Electronics and then served his country for 6 years in the Marine Corps as an avionics technician. Multiple deployments allowed him to experience different countries, which cultivated a lifelong curiosity in the world. He was employed by National Cash Register (NCR) as a field technician and later in maintenance at Barnstead Thermolyne in Dubuque.

Ron was an adventurous free-spirit, and he loved to spend time with family and friends. He enjoyed history, science, and politics and he was eager to share his knowledge, stories, and conversation with others. He was unpretentious, self-reliant, and good at troubleshooting & repairs. He was a generous father and grandfather, willing to engage in child's play and eager to help with their ambitions and challenges.

Ron is survived by his family: children Mandy (Harve) Ludovissy and Levi (Brandie) Backes, along with Betty (Joe) Muntz, Becky (Nathaniel) White, and Casey Muntz; grandchildren Derek, Chelsea, Jamie, Caleb, & Tyler Ludovissy and Colin, Wyatt, & Ciara Backes, along with Stacia Knipper, Abigail Noack, Breyden & Deacen Muntz; siblings Sharon Pierson, Joan Backes, Mary Bemis, Carol Brylski, Gary Backes, Laura Backes.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lester and Helen Backes, sister-in-law Marian Backes and brother-in-law Steve Bemis.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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