David P. “Tadpole” Link Sr., 84, of Michigan City, entered eternal life after a battle with Leukemia at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Franciscan Health in Michigan City. He was born on March 30, 1941, in La Harpe, Ill. to Eldon "Bugs" and Hazel Brewer Link. On April 30, 1962 in West Point, he married Connie Link, who survives.

David enjoyed playing pool, mowing the grass, tinkering with small engines, drinking a beer, spending time with family, bowling, and playing cards.

Surviving are his four daughters, Tammy (Jim) Bowen, Barbara (Dennis) Eldridge, Heather (Steve) Nelson, and Shannon Taylor; two sisters, Becky Jean Holman and Caroline Sue Babe Link; six grandchildren, Jesse (Tiffany) Bowen, Britney (Tyler) Kreighbaum, Gary Norman, Cameron Norman, Chris Sobecki, and Aydreanna Nelson; and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon "Bugs" and Hazel Link, brother, Edwin "Butch" Link; son, David Paul Link Jr; daughter, Kelly Kay.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe. Burial will follow in LaHarpe Cemetery.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1748373445946.jpeg" alt="David "Tadpole" Link" />
 <figcaption>David "Tadpole" Link</figcaption>
 </figure>David P. “Tadpole” Link Sr., 84, of Michigan City, entered eternal life after a battle with Leukemia at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Franciscan Health in Michigan City. He was born on March 30, 1941, in La Harpe, Ill. to Eldon "Bugs" and Hazel Brewer Link. On April 30, 1962 in West Point, he married Connie Link, who survives.David enjoyed playing pool, mowing the grass, tinkering with small engines, drinking a beer, spending time with family, bowling, and playing cards.Surviving are his four daughters, Tammy (Jim) Bowen, Barbara (Dennis) Eldridge, Heather (Steve) Nelson, and Shannon Taylor; two sisters, Becky Jean Holman and Caroline Sue Babe Link; six grandchildren, Jesse (Tiffany) Bowen, Britney (Tyler) Kreighbaum, Gary Norman, Cameron Norman, Chris Sobecki, and Aydreanna Nelson; and nine great grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon "Bugs" and Hazel Link, brother, Edwin "Butch" Link; son, David Paul Link Jr; daughter, Kelly Kay.A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe. Burial will follow in LaHarpe Cemetery.&nbsp;

David P. “Tadpole” Link Sr.

Carolyn R. Sliger, 81, of West Burlington, died on Monday Morning, May 26, 2025, at OakView Nursing and Rehab Center in Burlington.

Born on March 22, 1944, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Paul and Velma Goe Messer. Carolyn was a 1962 graduate of Burlington High School and on May 15, 1966, in Burlington she married Jerry G. Sliger.

Carolyn worked for Sutter Drugstore when she was a teenager then became a Teller and Office Associate for F &amp; M Bank and Trust, First National Bank and K-Mart.

Carolyn was a member of First United Methodist Church and enjoyed cross stitching, traveling, reading and spending time with her grandson and great grandsons. She loved her cocker spaniels and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Carolyn is survived by her husband of 59 years Jerry of West Burlington; daughter, Tina (Jon) Riley of Stronghurst, IL; son, Michael Sliger of New Milford, CT; grandson, Justin (Jessica) Duffy of Ankeny; two great grandchildren, Mason and Theo; sister Barbara Collins of Des Moines, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Paul (Pat) Sliger, of Richmond, VA; many nieces and nephews.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, sister Gloria, brother Raymond, and brother-in-law, Jack Collins.

The family will receive friends at Lunning Chapel, Friday, May 30th, 2025, 1 to 2 p.m.

The funeral service for Carolyn R. Sliger will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Lunning Chapel with Pastor Steven Parker officiating. Internment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation.

Carolyn R. Sliger, 81, of West Burlington, died on Monday Morning, May 26, 2025, at OakView Nursing and Rehab Center in Burlington.Born on March 22, 1944, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Paul and Velma Goe Messer. Carolyn was a 1962 graduate of Burlington High School and on May 15, 1966, in Burlington she married Jerry G. Sliger.Carolyn worked for Sutter Drugstore when she was a teenager then became a Teller and Office Associate for F &amp; M Bank and Trust, First National Bank and K-Mart.Carolyn was a member of First United Methodist Church and enjoyed cross stitching, traveling, reading and spending time with her grandson and great grandsons. She loved her cocker spaniels and the Iowa Hawkeyes.Carolyn is survived by her husband of 59 years Jerry of West Burlington; daughter, Tina (Jon) Riley of Stronghurst, IL; son, Michael Sliger of New Milford, CT; grandson, Justin (Jessica) Duffy of Ankeny; two great grandchildren, Mason and Theo; sister Barbara Collins of Des Moines, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Paul (Pat) Sliger, of Richmond, VA; many nieces and nephews.Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, sister Gloria, brother Raymond, and brother-in-law, Jack Collins.The family will receive friends at Lunning Chapel, Friday, May 30th, 2025, 1 to 2 p.m.The funeral service for Carolyn R. Sliger will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Lunning Chapel with Pastor Steven Parker officiating. Internment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation.

Carolyn R. Sliger

Patricia R. Higdon, 85, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at OakView Nursing and Rehabilitation in Burlington.

Born on May 24, 1939, in Burlington, she was the daughter of William and Lois Herron Johnson. On June 1, 1958, in Burlington, she married Jimmy A. Higdon. He preceded her in death on April 26, 2016.

Patricia was a 1958 graduate of Danville High School. She worked for IRCTRW for several years. She was well known for her skillset painting, wallpapering, staining and varnishing in several homes in the area. In Patricia’s free time she enjoyed being outside planting and gardening, painting by numbers, puzzles, crossword puzzles, needle point, cross stitch, and embroidery. She had a special gift of remembering everyone’s birthdays and any date that was special. Of all things she loved, her family was her most prized possession and spending time with them brought her the most joy.

She is survived by her three children: Randy (Angie) Higdon and Greg (Katherine) Higdon all of Danville, Iowa and Diane (Jerry) Snelson of West Burlington, Iowa; fourteen grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren and one sister Kathleen Volner. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jimmy, seven siblings and daughter in-law Pam Higdon.

The visitation for Patricia will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, at Lunning Chapel where the family will meet with friends. The funeral service for Patricia will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Lunning Chapel. Interment will be held in Prairie Grove Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for the City of Hope Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1748289356863.jpeg" alt="Patricia Higdon" />
 <figcaption>Patricia Higdon</figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia R. Higdon, 85, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at OakView Nursing and Rehabilitation in Burlington.Born on May 24, 1939, in Burlington, she was the daughter of William and Lois Herron Johnson. On June 1, 1958, in Burlington, she married Jimmy A. Higdon. He preceded her in death on April 26, 2016.Patricia was a 1958 graduate of Danville High School. She worked for IRCTRW for several years. She was well known for her skillset painting, wallpapering, staining and varnishing in several homes in the area. In Patricia’s free time she enjoyed being outside planting and gardening, painting by numbers, puzzles, crossword puzzles, needle point, cross stitch, and embroidery. She had a special gift of remembering everyone’s birthdays and any date that was special. Of all things she loved, her family was her most prized possession and spending time with them brought her the most joy.She is survived by her three children: Randy (Angie) Higdon and Greg (Katherine) Higdon all of Danville, Iowa and Diane (Jerry) Snelson of West Burlington, Iowa; fourteen grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren and one sister Kathleen Volner. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jimmy, seven siblings and daughter in-law Pam Higdon.The visitation for Patricia will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, at Lunning Chapel where the family will meet with friends. The funeral service for Patricia will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Lunning Chapel. Interment will be held in Prairie Grove Cemetery.A memorial has been established for the City of Hope Foundation.

Patricia R. Higdon

Richard C. Philpott, 84, of Carlinville, Ill. and formerly of Burlington, passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at his home.

Richard was born May 27, 1940, in Burlington, a son of Charles H. and Ruth N. Ita Philpott. Richard graduated from Burlington High School in 1966. He married Sandra R. Pranger on October 14, 1978, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in West Point.

Richard was a member of the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1966. He was stationed at many places during his twenty-six years and as a Telecommunications Maintenance Supervisor in the Air Force including the Philippines, Taiwan, Spain, Japan, West Germany, and being deployed in Saudi Arabi for Desert Storm. They moved to Carlinville after retiring in 1992 in Tampa, Fla. Richard wanted to enjoy his retirement and be close to his parents. Richard enjoyed traveling, birdwatching, and family gatherings.

Richard was a member of the VFW, the American Legion, AARP, AFA, and TREA. In his many years of employment, he had been a paperboy for the Des Moines Register, a kitchen assistant at Burlington Golf Club, worked at Lamb's 66 Service Station, US Borax Chemical Corp., Ewinger Appliances in Burlington, and Sylvania Electric before enlisting in the AirForce. He was baptized at the First Congregational Church in Burlington.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27 at Lunning Chapel. The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard will render full military rites at 10 a.m. Funeral services will then be conducted by Pastor JudyAnn Morse. Burial will follow at Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery.

Richard is survived by his wife, Sandra R. Philpott of Carlinville, Ill., sister, Jacqueline R. Maki of Minneapolis, Minn., niece Karen (David) Mauer, nephew Kevin (Sue) Ward, three great nieces, and two great-nephews.

Memorials may be made to Residential Hospice Foundation, 5440 Corporate Dr. Ste 400, Troy, MI 48098.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1748288849833.jpeg" alt="Richard C. Phipott" />
 <figcaption>Richard C. Phipott</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard C. Philpott, 84, of Carlinville, Ill. and formerly of Burlington, passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at his home.Richard was born May 27, 1940, in Burlington, a son of Charles H. and Ruth N. Ita Philpott. Richard graduated from Burlington High School in 1966. He married Sandra R. Pranger on October 14, 1978, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in West Point.Richard was a member of the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1966. He was stationed at many places during his twenty-six years and as a Telecommunications Maintenance Supervisor in the Air Force including the Philippines, Taiwan, Spain, Japan, West Germany, and being deployed in Saudi Arabi for Desert Storm. They moved to Carlinville after retiring in 1992 in Tampa, Fla. Richard wanted to enjoy his retirement and be close to his parents. Richard enjoyed traveling, birdwatching, and family gatherings.Richard was a member of the VFW, the American Legion, AARP, AFA, and TREA. In his many years of employment, he had been a paperboy for the Des Moines Register, a kitchen assistant at Burlington Golf Club, worked at Lamb's 66 Service Station, US Borax Chemical Corp., Ewinger Appliances in Burlington, and Sylvania Electric before enlisting in the AirForce. He was baptized at the First Congregational Church in Burlington.Richard was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27 at Lunning Chapel. The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard will render full military rites at 10 a.m. Funeral services will then be conducted by Pastor JudyAnn Morse. Burial will follow at Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery.Richard is survived by his wife, Sandra R. Philpott of Carlinville, Ill., sister, Jacqueline R. Maki of Minneapolis, Minn., niece Karen (David) Mauer, nephew Kevin (Sue) Ward, three great nieces, and two great-nephews.Memorials may be made to Residential Hospice Foundation, 5440 Corporate Dr. Ste 400, Troy, MI 48098.

Richard C. Philpott

Frances C. Appel, 101, of Burlington, Iowa, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.

Born on February 18, 1924, in Cantril, Iowa, she was the daughter of Leslie and Ruth (Thieme) Simmons. On August 24, 1942, she married Harold Appel in Memphis, Missouri. Of that union they had six children. They later divorced.

Frances was a graduate of New London High School. She worked for Automatic Vending and drove the lunch wagon for fifteen years. In her early years she loved to go bowling and take the children every Friday and Saturday night to the bowling alley. Frances enjoyed being a dog owner and taking her dog for walks down to the Mississippi River front or to Crapo Park. She was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and enjoyed watching football, basketball and softball. Everyday Frances would complete the crossword puzzle in the Hawk Eye newspaper. Most of all Frances loved nothing more than being with her family.

She is survived by her two daughters: Carol Appel of Burlington and Tammy (John Morlan) Stiles of Ozark, Missouri; four grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and Cathy Cary who was like a daughter to her. She is also survived by her grand-dog Ellie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Robert Simmons; four children: Patricia, Cindy, Greg and Michelle Appel and one granddaughter Amanda Waters.

A graveside service will be he held Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Burge Cemetery in New London, Iowa with Rev. David Mixon officiating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1748288637270.jpeg" alt="Frances C. Appel" />
 <figcaption>Frances C. Appel</figcaption>
 </figure>Frances C. Appel, 101, of Burlington, Iowa, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.Born on February 18, 1924, in Cantril, Iowa, she was the daughter of Leslie and Ruth (Thieme) Simmons. On August 24, 1942, she married Harold Appel in Memphis, Missouri. Of that union they had six children. They later divorced.Frances was a graduate of New London High School. She worked for Automatic Vending and drove the lunch wagon for fifteen years. In her early years she loved to go bowling and take the children every Friday and Saturday night to the bowling alley. Frances enjoyed being a dog owner and taking her dog for walks down to the Mississippi River front or to Crapo Park. She was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and enjoyed watching football, basketball and softball. Everyday Frances would complete the crossword puzzle in the Hawk Eye newspaper. Most of all Frances loved nothing more than being with her family.She is survived by her two daughters: Carol Appel of Burlington and Tammy (John Morlan) Stiles of Ozark, Missouri; four grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and Cathy Cary who was like a daughter to her. She is also survived by her grand-dog Ellie.She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Robert Simmons; four children: Patricia, Cindy, Greg and Michelle Appel and one granddaughter Amanda Waters.A graveside service will be he held Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Burge Cemetery in New London, Iowa with Rev. David Mixon officiating.

Frances C. Appel

John S. Diewold, 67, of Burlington, died Friday, May 23, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born on November 27, 1957, in Burlington, he was the son of Paul and Mildred Schultz Diewold.

John attended Burlington Notre Dame. He worked for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and later as an iron worker in construction for many years. John was an avid fisherman and sports enthusiast. He was a fan of the Green Bay Packers and St Louis Cardinals. In his free time, he enjoyed being out gardening, mushroom hunting and feeding wildlife in his back yard. Most of all John always enjoyed spending time with his nephews, who brought him so much joy.

He is survived by is sister Jan Diewold-Mehaffy; two nephews: Paul (Maria) DeWitt and their son Noah DeWitt and James DeWitt and his sons Cameron and James DeWitt.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Bert Weddell and brother in-law Rickey Mehaffy.

Cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel.

John S. Diewold, 67, of Burlington, died Friday, May 23, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.Born on November 27, 1957, in Burlington, he was the son of Paul and Mildred Schultz Diewold.John attended Burlington Notre Dame. He worked for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and later as an iron worker in construction for many years. John was an avid fisherman and sports enthusiast. He was a fan of the Green Bay Packers and St Louis Cardinals. In his free time, he enjoyed being out gardening, mushroom hunting and feeding wildlife in his back yard. Most of all John always enjoyed spending time with his nephews, who brought him so much joy.He is survived by is sister Jan Diewold-Mehaffy; two nephews: Paul (Maria) DeWitt and their son Noah DeWitt and James DeWitt and his sons Cameron and James DeWitt.He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Bert Weddell and brother in-law Rickey Mehaffy.Cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel.

John S. Diewold

Celebrating a life filled with love, joy, and adventure

Janet Patricia Yohe Elschlager, 80, of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Southeastern Iowa Medical Center in West Burlington. Born on June 21, 1944, in Mount Pleasant, Janet was the beloved daughter of Ernest and Maria Rutherford West.&nbsp;

Her formative years were spent in Burlington, where she graduated from Burlington High School as part of the Class of 1962.

Janet was a devoted mother and grandmother, always treasuring the time she spent visiting her sons and grandson. She was known for her love of gardening, particularly planting flowers that brought beauty to her surroundings. Janet’s life was a testament to resilience and joy, even after facing the loss of her previous husbands. She later found companionship and happiness with John Lewis, whom she lovingly regarded as a saint. Together, they shared countless adventures: camping trips, travels to the West, and memorable rides on John’s Harley motorcycle during Janet’s 60s. Their bond was a celebration of life itself, embodying the perfect partnership.

Janet left an indelible impression on those around her with her signature farewell gesture, waving her index finger while saying “bye-bye,” followed by her heartfelt words, “Love you, love you, love you, and love you.” Her warmth and humor will forever be remembered by those who knew her.

Janet is survived by her longtime companion, John Lewis of Burlington; her two sons, Jerry Yohe of Cave Creek, Ariz., and Jason Yohe of Wheeling, Ill.; her grandson, Ryan Yohe; three sisters, Barbara Hoelscher of Burlington, Monica Hudson of Mount Pleasant, and Nancy Thompson of Mediapolis; and two brothers, Terry West and Shawn West of Charlotte, N.C.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and one brother, Marty West.

Janet’s legacy of love, family, and vibrant life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a future date. The family is being assisted by Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk. Online condolences may be shared with the family at <a href="http://www.vigenmemorialhome.com">www.vigenmemorialhome.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747984283616.jpeg" alt="Janet Elschlager" />
 <figcaption>Janet Elschlager</figcaption>
 </figure>1944-2025Celebrating a life filled with love, joy, and adventureJanet Patricia Yohe Elschlager, 80, of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Southeastern Iowa Medical Center in West Burlington. Born on June 21, 1944, in Mount Pleasant, Janet was the beloved daughter of Ernest and Maria Rutherford West.&nbsp;Her formative years were spent in Burlington, where she graduated from Burlington High School as part of the Class of 1962.Janet was a devoted mother and grandmother, always treasuring the time she spent visiting her sons and grandson. She was known for her love of gardening, particularly planting flowers that brought beauty to her surroundings. Janet’s life was a testament to resilience and joy, even after facing the loss of her previous husbands. She later found companionship and happiness with John Lewis, whom she lovingly regarded as a saint. Together, they shared countless adventures: camping trips, travels to the West, and memorable rides on John’s Harley motorcycle during Janet’s 60s. Their bond was a celebration of life itself, embodying the perfect partnership.Janet left an indelible impression on those around her with her signature farewell gesture, waving her index finger while saying “bye-bye,” followed by her heartfelt words, “Love you, love you, love you, and love you.” Her warmth and humor will forever be remembered by those who knew her.Janet is survived by her longtime companion, John Lewis of Burlington; her two sons, Jerry Yohe of Cave Creek, Ariz., and Jason Yohe of Wheeling, Ill.; her grandson, Ryan Yohe; three sisters, Barbara Hoelscher of Burlington, Monica Hudson of Mount Pleasant, and Nancy Thompson of Mediapolis; and two brothers, Terry West and Shawn West of Charlotte, N.C.She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and one brother, Marty West.Janet’s legacy of love, family, and vibrant life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a future date. The family is being assisted by Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk. Online condolences may be shared with the family at <a href="http://www.vigenmemorialhome.com">www.vigenmemorialhome.com</a>._____

Janet Patricia Yohe Elschlager

Donald Walter Traman, 96, of Burlington, died Friday, May 9, 2025 at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.

Born March 16, 1929, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of Fred Walter and Carolyn Marie Traman.

He was a graduate of Burlington High School, Iowa State University and Wichita State University. He served as Corporal in the Army during WWII.

He married Lois Margaret Thye on April 15, 1956 in Burlington.

Don was a lifelong farmer and worked in sales until his retirement in 2006.

He was a member of Oak Street Baptist Church where he served as elder, deacon, moderator, usher, greeter and Sunday school teacher.

Survivors include his wife of 69 years Lois Margaret Traman of Burlington; son Larry D. (Joey) Traman; granddaughter Sidney Nichole; great granddaughter Alice Nichole; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Leah and Jerry Mattox of West Burlington and sister-in-law Sharon Thye of Burlington.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Lynn “Linsey” Frances Traman Nichols, uncles, aunts, niece, cousins, brother-in-law and sister.

The memorial funeral service for Donald Traman will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2025 at Lunning Chapel.

Family request that in Lieu of flowers please give to the memorial of your choice, Oak Street Baptist Church, West Burlington Lions Club or SE Iowa Regional Hospice House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Walter Traman, 96, of Burlington, died Friday, May 9, 2025 at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.Born March 16, 1929, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of Fred Walter and Carolyn Marie Traman.He was a graduate of Burlington High School, Iowa State University and Wichita State University. He served as Corporal in the Army during WWII.He married Lois Margaret Thye on April 15, 1956 in Burlington.Don was a lifelong farmer and worked in sales until his retirement in 2006.He was a member of Oak Street Baptist Church where he served as elder, deacon, moderator, usher, greeter and Sunday school teacher.Survivors include his wife of 69 years Lois Margaret Traman of Burlington; son Larry D. (Joey) Traman; granddaughter Sidney Nichole; great granddaughter Alice Nichole; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Leah and Jerry Mattox of West Burlington and sister-in-law Sharon Thye of Burlington.He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Lynn “Linsey” Frances Traman Nichols, uncles, aunts, niece, cousins, brother-in-law and sister.The memorial funeral service for Donald Traman will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2025 at Lunning Chapel.Family request that in Lieu of flowers please give to the memorial of your choice, Oak Street Baptist Church, West Burlington Lions Club or SE Iowa Regional Hospice House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Walter Traman

Thomas Herman Thye, 75, of Mabank, Texas passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, after a lengthy battle with heart failure. His final days spent at home surrounded by family.

Tom was born July 17, 1949, to Fred and Gene Landwehr Thye. He was raised in Burlington, Iowa and graduated from Burlington High School in 1967. He attended Iowa State University and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1971. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and later in the U.S. Air Force Reserves.

His first job was working for Mobil Oil as an engineer, followed by a career in construction, real estate, and development for Midas Muffler and Brakes, Pizza Hut and ACE Cash Express. After retiring from corporate life, he owned and operated four Midas shops as a franchisee. Before retirement, he worked in residential real estate.

In retirement, he spent his time on Cedar Creek Lake. He loved golfing, boating, traveling, playing games, and most importantly, spending time with family. There was nothing he loved more than attending the events of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren or hosting them at his house.

He is survived by his wife Dianna Thye of Mabank, Texas; brothers Denny (Diana) Thye of New London, Iowa and Dave (Cheri) Thye of Gilbert, Arizona; son Hank (Kathy) Thye of Euless, Texas; stepchildren Jetta (Rodney) Featherston of Mabank, Texas; Bobby (Cathy) George of Rowlett, Texas; and Jonathan (Edgar) George of Noth Hollywood, California; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step mother in-law and nephew Jake Thye.

Funeral services will be held at the Pinnacle Club on Cedar Creek Lake in Mabank, Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747983814101.jpeg" alt="Thomas H. Thye" />
 <figcaption>Thomas H. Thye</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Herman Thye, 75, of Mabank, Texas passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, after a lengthy battle with heart failure. His final days spent at home surrounded by family.Tom was born July 17, 1949, to Fred and Gene Landwehr Thye. He was raised in Burlington, Iowa and graduated from Burlington High School in 1967. He attended Iowa State University and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1971. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and later in the U.S. Air Force Reserves.His first job was working for Mobil Oil as an engineer, followed by a career in construction, real estate, and development for Midas Muffler and Brakes, Pizza Hut and ACE Cash Express. After retiring from corporate life, he owned and operated four Midas shops as a franchisee. Before retirement, he worked in residential real estate.In retirement, he spent his time on Cedar Creek Lake. He loved golfing, boating, traveling, playing games, and most importantly, spending time with family. There was nothing he loved more than attending the events of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren or hosting them at his house.He is survived by his wife Dianna Thye of Mabank, Texas; brothers Denny (Diana) Thye of New London, Iowa and Dave (Cheri) Thye of Gilbert, Arizona; son Hank (Kathy) Thye of Euless, Texas; stepchildren Jetta (Rodney) Featherston of Mabank, Texas; Bobby (Cathy) George of Rowlett, Texas; and Jonathan (Edgar) George of Noth Hollywood, California; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, step mother in-law and nephew Jake Thye.Funeral services will be held at the Pinnacle Club on Cedar Creek Lake in Mabank, Texas.

Thomas Herman Thye

Thomas "TJ" McCann, 34, of Mediapolis, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Born March 11, 1991, in Mount Pleasant, he was the son of Jerry McCann and Kathy Beguin Rehman.

He was a graduate of Burlington High School and served his country in the United States Army.

TJ worked as a HVAC Technician for Frank Millard &amp; Company for 15 years and had recently started a new company, Heartland Heat and Air.

He had a talent for flipping things, whether it was houses, cars or anything else he could sell. TJ would buy something, fix it up and usually sell it for a profit. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, hiking, searching for arrowheads and exploring caves. Although he loved nature, he had a comical fear of birds. He will also be remembered for his tremendous knowledge on a wide variety of subjects and was always proud to give out the most random facts he had learned. Most of all TJ loved spending time with his girls.&nbsp;

He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Jerry (Brandea) McCann of Mt. Pleasant and Kathy (Tom) Rehman of Burlington; daughters, Audrianna Jo McCann and Kennedy Ronner; fiancée, Paige Plagman; step-daughters, Emma Seitz and Lola Eidson; sisters, Marissa (Clay) Beckman and Myah Rehman of Burlington; brothers, Matthew Rehman of Burlington and Casey (Rebekah) McCann of Cedar Rapids; maternal grandparents, John and Judy Beguin of Burlington; paternal grandparents, Vincent McCann of Burlington and Dyann McCann of Burlington; three nieces, Quinn and Blayke Beckman and Maeve McCann; aunt and uncle, Shelley and Jay Hohenthaner; cousins, Delaney and Drake Hohenthaner; aunt and uncle, Rebecca and Mark Getz; and cousins, Danielle and Zakk Getz.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal great-grandparents.

TJ was baptized at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Burlington.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

The memorial service for TJ will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street with Pastor JudyAnn Morse officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.&nbsp; A time of food and fellowship will be held at the I.B.E.W. Local 13 Union Hall, 1205 N. Central, following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for his daughters' education.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747983643151.jpeg" alt="Thomas McCann" />
 <figcaption>Thomas McCann</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas "TJ" McCann, 34, of Mediapolis, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025.Born March 11, 1991, in Mount Pleasant, he was the son of Jerry McCann and Kathy Beguin Rehman.He was a graduate of Burlington High School and served his country in the United States Army.TJ worked as a HVAC Technician for Frank Millard &amp; Company for 15 years and had recently started a new company, Heartland Heat and Air.He had a talent for flipping things, whether it was houses, cars or anything else he could sell. TJ would buy something, fix it up and usually sell it for a profit. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, hiking, searching for arrowheads and exploring caves. Although he loved nature, he had a comical fear of birds. He will also be remembered for his tremendous knowledge on a wide variety of subjects and was always proud to give out the most random facts he had learned. Most of all TJ loved spending time with his girls.&nbsp;He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Jerry (Brandea) McCann of Mt. Pleasant and Kathy (Tom) Rehman of Burlington; daughters, Audrianna Jo McCann and Kennedy Ronner; fiancée, Paige Plagman; step-daughters, Emma Seitz and Lola Eidson; sisters, Marissa (Clay) Beckman and Myah Rehman of Burlington; brothers, Matthew Rehman of Burlington and Casey (Rebekah) McCann of Cedar Rapids; maternal grandparents, John and Judy Beguin of Burlington; paternal grandparents, Vincent McCann of Burlington and Dyann McCann of Burlington; three nieces, Quinn and Blayke Beckman and Maeve McCann; aunt and uncle, Shelley and Jay Hohenthaner; cousins, Delaney and Drake Hohenthaner; aunt and uncle, Rebecca and Mark Getz; and cousins, Danielle and Zakk Getz.He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal great-grandparents.TJ was baptized at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Burlington.Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.The memorial service for TJ will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street with Pastor JudyAnn Morse officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.&nbsp; A time of food and fellowship will be held at the I.B.E.W. Local 13 Union Hall, 1205 N. Central, following the burial.In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for his daughters' education.&nbsp;

Thomas "TJ" McCann

D. JoAnn Caldwell, 95,&nbsp; died on May 16, 2025. JoAnn was born on Aug. 17, 1929 in Fairfield to Willis Virgil “Bill” Dill and Frances Marie Rittler Dill. Later she moved to Chicago, Ill. and graduated in 1947 from Proviso East High School in Maywood, Ill.

JoAnn began her working career at McKesson, where she met Richard “Dick” Caldwell. They were united in marriage in June of 1949 and made their home in Burlington. Dick and JoAnn welcomed their daughter, Nancy,&nbsp; in 1955. Dick and JoAnn celebrated 50 years of marriage, until his death in 2000. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, family, and friends.

JoAnn later worked at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant (IAAP) and Champion Products where she made lifelong friends. She also enjoyed volunteering at the election polls for many years.

JoAnn was a member of Divine Mercy Parish and Women of the Moose Lodge #579.

JoAnn lived a very active social life which included dancing at the Moose, happy hour with the “Gator Bunch”, and going to Big Muddy’s where her drink of choice was a Coors Light with a glass of ice. Some of her favorite memories were seeing Frank Sinatra and Neil Diamond live on stage; where she managed to touch Frank Sinatra as he walked by and was kissed by Neil Diamond.&nbsp;

Those who knew JoAnn were well aware of her incredible kindness and her passion for every holiday. So passionate, that every holiday had a special outfit, her favorites being Christmas and Halloween. JoAnn enjoyed making others feel special by sending a card for every occasion. JoAnn collected pop tabs from family and friends to donate to the Ronald McDonald House for over 30 years. Things that made JoAnn unique were “stamping” the first robins of Spring, “nuffins” on her loved ones, and saying “ditto cabbage-head” as a term of endearment. Many affectionately called her Grandma. Whenever you left JoAnn’s house, you would always see her waving goodbye from the front door.

Dick and JoAnn would go on annual trips with two other couples married the same year.&nbsp; The first trip following Dick’s passing, a butterfly kept making an appearance. This was taken as a special sign of Dick being near. Ever since, butterflies have been special to JoAnn and her family.

JoAnn is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Caldwell) Quinn; grandsons, Collin (Jaime) Quinn and Brendan (Megan) Quinn; great-granddaughters Madison (Collin) Quinn and Makenna (Brendan) Quinn. She is also survived by loving family member, Barb Quinn. Also left to cherish her memory is one niece and five nephews and their families.

Once her apartment in heaven was ready, JoAnn was welcomed into eternal life by her husband, Dick Caldwell; her parents, Willis and Frances Dill; her sister, Phyllis “Jean” McEwen (Robert); her brother, Donald Dill (Doris); son-in-law, Patrick Quinn; and many dear friends.

A special thank you to Infinity Home Care, Valley View Village and Hospice of the Midwest for their compassion and kindness in her exceptional care.

Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until 7:00 PM with the family to receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.

The Funeral Mass of the Resurrection for JoAnn will be at 10:30 AM Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church with Fr. Jake Greiner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Garden of the Cross, Aspen Grove Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held at St. Paul’s Hall following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the Ronald McDonald House, Divine Mercy Parish and the Des Moines County Humane Society.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747983295454.jpeg" alt="JoAnn Caldwell" />
 <figcaption>JoAnn Caldwell</figcaption>
 </figure>D. JoAnn Caldwell, 95,&nbsp; died on May 16, 2025. JoAnn was born on Aug. 17, 1929 in Fairfield to Willis Virgil “Bill” Dill and Frances Marie Rittler Dill. Later she moved to Chicago, Ill. and graduated in 1947 from Proviso East High School in Maywood, Ill.JoAnn began her working career at McKesson, where she met Richard “Dick” Caldwell. They were united in marriage in June of 1949 and made their home in Burlington. Dick and JoAnn welcomed their daughter, Nancy,&nbsp; in 1955. Dick and JoAnn celebrated 50 years of marriage, until his death in 2000. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, family, and friends.JoAnn later worked at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant (IAAP) and Champion Products where she made lifelong friends. She also enjoyed volunteering at the election polls for many years.JoAnn was a member of Divine Mercy Parish and Women of the Moose Lodge #579.JoAnn lived a very active social life which included dancing at the Moose, happy hour with the “Gator Bunch”, and going to Big Muddy’s where her drink of choice was a Coors Light with a glass of ice. Some of her favorite memories were seeing Frank Sinatra and Neil Diamond live on stage; where she managed to touch Frank Sinatra as he walked by and was kissed by Neil Diamond.&nbsp;Those who knew JoAnn were well aware of her incredible kindness and her passion for every holiday. So passionate, that every holiday had a special outfit, her favorites being Christmas and Halloween. JoAnn enjoyed making others feel special by sending a card for every occasion. JoAnn collected pop tabs from family and friends to donate to the Ronald McDonald House for over 30 years. Things that made JoAnn unique were “stamping” the first robins of Spring, “nuffins” on her loved ones, and saying “ditto cabbage-head” as a term of endearment. Many affectionately called her Grandma. Whenever you left JoAnn’s house, you would always see her waving goodbye from the front door.Dick and JoAnn would go on annual trips with two other couples married the same year.&nbsp; The first trip following Dick’s passing, a butterfly kept making an appearance. This was taken as a special sign of Dick being near. Ever since, butterflies have been special to JoAnn and her family.JoAnn is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Caldwell) Quinn; grandsons, Collin (Jaime) Quinn and Brendan (Megan) Quinn; great-granddaughters Madison (Collin) Quinn and Makenna (Brendan) Quinn. She is also survived by loving family member, Barb Quinn. Also left to cherish her memory is one niece and five nephews and their families.Once her apartment in heaven was ready, JoAnn was welcomed into eternal life by her husband, Dick Caldwell; her parents, Willis and Frances Dill; her sister, Phyllis “Jean” McEwen (Robert); her brother, Donald Dill (Doris); son-in-law, Patrick Quinn; and many dear friends.A special thank you to Infinity Home Care, Valley View Village and Hospice of the Midwest for their compassion and kindness in her exceptional care.Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until 7:00 PM with the family to receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.The Funeral Mass of the Resurrection for JoAnn will be at 10:30 AM Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church with Fr. Jake Greiner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Garden of the Cross, Aspen Grove Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held at St. Paul’s Hall following the burial.In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the Ronald McDonald House, Divine Mercy Parish and the Des Moines County Humane Society.

D. JoAnn Caldwell

Jim Pratt, 97, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Jim was born in Burlington on Oct. 13, 1927 to William Joseph and Elsie Gillow Pratt, the fourth of five children.&nbsp; Jim graduated from Burlington Community High School in 1945 and enlisted in the US Army. Since he was only 17, the Army sent him to the University of Wyoming to study engineering. After the War, he came back to Burlington where he met Edna Noble. They married on Aug. 11, 1951, and were married 65 years before her death at 92 in 2016. In 2017, he married Carol Donato Marino. She survives. Jim was a letter carrier with the US Postal Service for 35 years before he retired in 1985 to run his own business, The Bicycle Barn, in a barn at his daughter Becky’s property. An avid biker, he rode in multi-day biking events with his daughter, Kelly. He was a member of Divine Mercy Parish. He loved playing chess, watching his grandchildren’s sporting events, and was a voracious reader of history tomes. His granddaughter Mallory shared his love for History and became a High School History teacher. He was known for his Jeopardy playing prowess. His latest obsession was following “his girl” Caitlin Clark as a Hawkeye and in the WNBA’s Indiana Fever wearing his Fever shorts and jersey.&nbsp; Jim leaves behind his two daughters, Becky Brueck, of Burlington, and Kelly Garrett (Ryan Neaveill) of Bloomington, Illinois; four grandchildren, Mallory (Lexi Landis) Garrett of Indianapolis, Sara Garrett of Carbondale, IL, Beth (Bill) McDowell of Pollock Pines, CA and Matthew (Missy) Brueck of Burlington; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. &nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife Edna, an infant daughter Mary, brothers Bill and Tom, and sisters Doris and Joyce. He also leaves behind his fur babies, Sadie and Gracie. Jim will always be remembered for his quick wit and for being the one everyone went to for homework help.&nbsp; He will always be our hero. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747982980487.jpeg" alt="Jim Pratt" />
 <figcaption>Jim Pratt</figcaption>
 </figure>Jim Pratt, 97, of Burlington, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Jim was born in Burlington on Oct. 13, 1927 to William Joseph and Elsie Gillow Pratt, the fourth of five children.&nbsp; Jim graduated from Burlington Community High School in 1945 and enlisted in the US Army. Since he was only 17, the Army sent him to the University of Wyoming to study engineering. After the War, he came back to Burlington where he met Edna Noble. They married on Aug. 11, 1951, and were married 65 years before her death at 92 in 2016. In 2017, he married Carol Donato Marino. She survives. Jim was a letter carrier with the US Postal Service for 35 years before he retired in 1985 to run his own business, The Bicycle Barn, in a barn at his daughter Becky’s property. An avid biker, he rode in multi-day biking events with his daughter, Kelly. He was a member of Divine Mercy Parish. He loved playing chess, watching his grandchildren’s sporting events, and was a voracious reader of history tomes. His granddaughter Mallory shared his love for History and became a High School History teacher. He was known for his Jeopardy playing prowess. His latest obsession was following “his girl” Caitlin Clark as a Hawkeye and in the WNBA’s Indiana Fever wearing his Fever shorts and jersey.&nbsp; Jim leaves behind his two daughters, Becky Brueck, of Burlington, and Kelly Garrett (Ryan Neaveill) of Bloomington, Illinois; four grandchildren, Mallory (Lexi Landis) Garrett of Indianapolis, Sara Garrett of Carbondale, IL, Beth (Bill) McDowell of Pollock Pines, CA and Matthew (Missy) Brueck of Burlington; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. &nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife Edna, an infant daughter Mary, brothers Bill and Tom, and sisters Doris and Joyce. He also leaves behind his fur babies, Sadie and Gracie. Jim will always be remembered for his quick wit and for being the one everyone went to for homework help.&nbsp; He will always be our hero. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Jim Pratt

Sharon E. Huffman, 78, of Dallas City, Ill., passed away at 10:45 a.m. Sunday, May 18, 2025 at the Montrose Health Center, Montrose.&nbsp;

Sharon was born July 31, 1946 in Missouri the daughter of Raymond A. and Millie L. Brooks Phillips. Earlier in life she married John Stimpson. They later divorced. In 1991 she married Don Huffman in Kahoka, Mo. He survives.&nbsp;

Sharon enjoyed playing cards, especially cribbage, spending time with her family, the many activities with her friends, gardening, golfing, traveling, and sang with bands and karaoke. She was always up for an adventure with her friends and family. She was the life of the party no matter where she was.&nbsp;

Besides her husband, Don, survivors include one son: David (Brandi) Stimpson of Burlington, Iowa; four grandchildren: Emily, Jacob, Noah and Taylor; three great-grandchildren: Auna, Marley and Maddyn; one brother: Danny Phillips and two sisters: Brenda “Bea” Windsor and Teresa Phillips.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter: Lorrie Whittaker.&nbsp;

Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home of Dallas City.&nbsp;

A private family burial will be held at Sand Cemetery in St. Francisville, Missouri. A Celebration of Sharon’s Life will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747982760259.jpeg" alt="Sharon Huffman" />
 <figcaption>Sharon Huffman</figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon E. Huffman, 78, of Dallas City, Ill., passed away at 10:45 a.m. Sunday, May 18, 2025 at the Montrose Health Center, Montrose.&nbsp;Sharon was born July 31, 1946 in Missouri the daughter of Raymond A. and Millie L. Brooks Phillips. Earlier in life she married John Stimpson. They later divorced. In 1991 she married Don Huffman in Kahoka, Mo. He survives.&nbsp;Sharon enjoyed playing cards, especially cribbage, spending time with her family, the many activities with her friends, gardening, golfing, traveling, and sang with bands and karaoke. She was always up for an adventure with her friends and family. She was the life of the party no matter where she was.&nbsp;Besides her husband, Don, survivors include one son: David (Brandi) Stimpson of Burlington, Iowa; four grandchildren: Emily, Jacob, Noah and Taylor; three great-grandchildren: Auna, Marley and Maddyn; one brother: Danny Phillips and two sisters: Brenda “Bea” Windsor and Teresa Phillips.She was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter: Lorrie Whittaker.&nbsp;Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home of Dallas City.&nbsp;A private family burial will be held at Sand Cemetery in St. Francisville, Missouri. A Celebration of Sharon’s Life will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Sharon Huffman

Dean I. Taeger, 80, of Sperry, died at Bickford Place in Burlington on Monday morning May 19, 2025. Born on Nov. 27, 1944, he was the son of Mark and Odetta Schulze Taeger.

Dean was a 1964 graduate of Burlington High School. On Jan. 24, 1965, he married Connie Sue Allen in Burlington, and she preceded him in death on March 28, 1989. He later married JoAnn Breuer Duke in Juneau, Alaska on Aug. 3, 1998.

Dean was a farmer and owner of Taeger Seed Company in rural Sperry for 50 plus years retiring in July of 2022.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Iowa Corn Growers, Des Moines County Cattleman Association, and a contributor to the Des Moines County Fair.

Dean loved his family and community. He had a great sense of humor and never knew a stranger. Dean enjoyed a good conversation with a glass of Crown in his hand.

Survivors include his wife JoAnn, children; Julie (Pat) Edmonds of Mediapolis, Jackie (Scott) Nau of Cedar Rapids, Scott (Amy) Taeger of Sperry; Stepchildren Debra Duke of Burlington and&nbsp; Dennis (Kim) Duke of Sperry;&nbsp; grandchildren, Audrea Edmonds, Amanda (Jake) Jenkins, Abby Edmonds, all of Burlington, Allison (Levi) Ruth, of West Burlington, Alex Edmonds of Mediapolis, Jonah (Chelsea) Kuntz of Lisbon, Lydia Taeger of Sperry, Ashley Hawley of Florida, and Dylan Duke of Sperry; great grandchildren, Caleb McCuen, Elijah Jenkins, Emersyn Ruth, Harper Jenkins, and Delaney Kuntz; sister, Kay Levinson and nephew Brent Levinson of Burlington.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Connie and grandson Samuel Kuntz.

Friends may call at Lunning Chapel Thursday, May 22 from 4 until 8 pm where the family will not be present.

The Celebration of Life will be held at the Taeger Seed Shed, 13612 170th Street, Sperry, Iowa, Monday, May 26 from 3 to 6 p.m. and private family inurnment will be held at a later date in Kossuth Cemetery.

Memorials have been established for the Mediapolis Fire Department, Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House and Kossuth Cemetery Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747982463745.jpeg" alt="Dean Taeger" />
 <figcaption>Dean Taeger</figcaption>
 </figure>Dean I. Taeger, 80, of Sperry, died at Bickford Place in Burlington on Monday morning May 19, 2025. Born on Nov. 27, 1944, he was the son of Mark and Odetta Schulze Taeger.Dean was a 1964 graduate of Burlington High School. On Jan. 24, 1965, he married Connie Sue Allen in Burlington, and she preceded him in death on March 28, 1989. He later married JoAnn Breuer Duke in Juneau, Alaska on Aug. 3, 1998.Dean was a farmer and owner of Taeger Seed Company in rural Sperry for 50 plus years retiring in July of 2022.He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Iowa Corn Growers, Des Moines County Cattleman Association, and a contributor to the Des Moines County Fair.Dean loved his family and community. He had a great sense of humor and never knew a stranger. Dean enjoyed a good conversation with a glass of Crown in his hand.Survivors include his wife JoAnn, children; Julie (Pat) Edmonds of Mediapolis, Jackie (Scott) Nau of Cedar Rapids, Scott (Amy) Taeger of Sperry; Stepchildren Debra Duke of Burlington and&nbsp; Dennis (Kim) Duke of Sperry;&nbsp; grandchildren, Audrea Edmonds, Amanda (Jake) Jenkins, Abby Edmonds, all of Burlington, Allison (Levi) Ruth, of West Burlington, Alex Edmonds of Mediapolis, Jonah (Chelsea) Kuntz of Lisbon, Lydia Taeger of Sperry, Ashley Hawley of Florida, and Dylan Duke of Sperry; great grandchildren, Caleb McCuen, Elijah Jenkins, Emersyn Ruth, Harper Jenkins, and Delaney Kuntz; sister, Kay Levinson and nephew Brent Levinson of Burlington.Dean was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Connie and grandson Samuel Kuntz.Friends may call at Lunning Chapel Thursday, May 22 from 4 until 8 pm where the family will not be present.The Celebration of Life will be held at the Taeger Seed Shed, 13612 170th Street, Sperry, Iowa, Monday, May 26 from 3 to 6 p.m. and private family inurnment will be held at a later date in Kossuth Cemetery.Memorials have been established for the Mediapolis Fire Department, Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House and Kossuth Cemetery Association.

Dean I. Taeger

Charles Francis Womack,&nbsp;70, of West Point, died Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

He was born on Sept. 12, 1954, in Wichita, Kan.. On Oct. 6, 2001, he married Debbie Quigley in West Point.

He is survived by his wife Debbie; daughter: Abby Womack of Fort Madison; grandson: Benjamin Charles; two sisters; two brothers and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother and step-daughter: Jaimie Quigley.

Charles was a United States Navy veteran. He worked as a carpenter and enjoyed working on cars and playing the guitar.

His body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation.

Per his wishes, no services will be held.

A memorial has been established in his memory for Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.

Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank">www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747696483057.jpeg" alt="Charles Womack" />
 <figcaption>Charles Womack</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Francis Womack,&nbsp;70, of West Point, died Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.He was born on Sept. 12, 1954, in Wichita, Kan.. On Oct. 6, 2001, he married Debbie Quigley in West Point.He is survived by his wife Debbie; daughter: Abby Womack of Fort Madison; grandson: Benjamin Charles; two sisters; two brothers and several nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother and step-daughter: Jaimie Quigley.Charles was a United States Navy veteran. He worked as a carpenter and enjoyed working on cars and playing the guitar.His body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation.Per his wishes, no services will be held.A memorial has been established in his memory for Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank">www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com</a>.

Charles Womack

Ron Brewer, 73, of LaHarpe, Ill., passed away surrounded by family in his home on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 7:20 a.m.

Ron was born November 8, 1951 in LaHarpe, the son of Kenneth and Betty (Howe) Brewer. On April 3, 1975 he married Penny Collins-Woodside. She preceded him in death April 17, 2019.&nbsp;

To know Ron was to love Ron. Affectionately known as RB to friends and family, he was a tough exterior with a soft inside. He was a generous soul whom would help anyone at anytime; even if he did not know them. He often would stop when he would see people on the side of the road and offer help.&nbsp;

RB was a racer at heart. He started his racing career on motorcycles, then he transferred to stock car racing. Many weekends were spent at the track. Once he was unable to race anymore, he still attended races as much as possible with Glenn and Bryce, often riding motorcycles there.&nbsp;

RB owned and operated Ron Brewer Construction for over 30 years. He was known for his fair prices and cement and field tile work. During winter he switched hats and became the snow plow guy. This was one of his favorite jobs and of course he did it at a high rate of speed. When his health made him slow down, he couldn’t rest so he bought the bar in LaHarpe and ran RB’s Pit Stop for close to 10 years. He loved the social part of this. He developed a lot of close relationships here including his “RB’s Girls” and played many card games.&nbsp;

He enjoyed playing cards and would play every chance he could. He would often have “rain days” on the sunniest of days just to play pitch in Blandinsville with the guys. He was all fun and games until the cards were dealt.&nbsp;

Motorcycle riding was also one of his favorite things to do. He and the guys, including Bryce often times, would take off and go all over the place, including Sturgis, Tennessee and numerous races. He was a member of The Eagles in Carthage and enjoyed Sunday breakfast there with his family many times.

While Ron loved all of this, there was nothing he loved more than his family. Saying he was a proud father and grandfather is an understatement. Karri, Bryce and Myah were his whole world. He stepped up and gave his grandchildren the father figure they needed in their lives.&nbsp;

RB is survived by one daughter: Karri Brewer-Wallace of LaHarpe; one grandson and best friend: Bryce (Kahlen Seitz) Marsden of LaHarpe and one granddaughter: Myah Wallace at home. Also surviving is his girlfriend: Carol Wilson of LaHarpe; two sisters: Sarah (Ken) Foxall of Macomb and Donna Newlan of Dallas City; one brother: Terry Brewer of Dallas City; one brother-in-law: Tom Maynard of Pontoosuc, Illinois, Amanda Donaldson who he considered one of his own, his granddog, Waffles and several cousins, nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death, tragically, by his beloved son: Greg Brewer, his parents, his in-laws: Owen and Louise Collins; one step-son: Jerome Woodside; one sister: Mel Maynard and one brother: Kevin Brewer. His family is at peace knowing he is reunited with these loved ones, especially Greg, who was taken way too soon.&nbsp;

Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home of LaHarpe is assisting the family.&nbsp;

The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025 at the LaHarpe Christian Church in LaHarpe.&nbsp;

The funeral service for RB will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025 at the LaHarpe Christian Church with Pastor Nate McCarter officiating. Burial will follow in Terre Haute, Illinois, Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the church.&nbsp;

A memorial fund has been established for Myah Wallace’s education. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Ron’s obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://banksandbeals.com/" target="_blank">banksandbeals.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747695829746.jpeg" alt=" Ron Brewer" />
 <figcaption> Ron Brewer</figcaption>
 </figure>Ron Brewer, 73, of LaHarpe, Ill., passed away surrounded by family in his home on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 7:20 a.m.Ron was born November 8, 1951 in LaHarpe, the son of Kenneth and Betty (Howe) Brewer. On April 3, 1975 he married Penny Collins-Woodside. She preceded him in death April 17, 2019.&nbsp;To know Ron was to love Ron. Affectionately known as RB to friends and family, he was a tough exterior with a soft inside. He was a generous soul whom would help anyone at anytime; even if he did not know them. He often would stop when he would see people on the side of the road and offer help.&nbsp;RB was a racer at heart. He started his racing career on motorcycles, then he transferred to stock car racing. Many weekends were spent at the track. Once he was unable to race anymore, he still attended races as much as possible with Glenn and Bryce, often riding motorcycles there.&nbsp;RB owned and operated Ron Brewer Construction for over 30 years. He was known for his fair prices and cement and field tile work. During winter he switched hats and became the snow plow guy. This was one of his favorite jobs and of course he did it at a high rate of speed. When his health made him slow down, he couldn’t rest so he bought the bar in LaHarpe and ran RB’s Pit Stop for close to 10 years. He loved the social part of this. He developed a lot of close relationships here including his “RB’s Girls” and played many card games.&nbsp;He enjoyed playing cards and would play every chance he could. He would often have “rain days” on the sunniest of days just to play pitch in Blandinsville with the guys. He was all fun and games until the cards were dealt.&nbsp;Motorcycle riding was also one of his favorite things to do. He and the guys, including Bryce often times, would take off and go all over the place, including Sturgis, Tennessee and numerous races. He was a member of The Eagles in Carthage and enjoyed Sunday breakfast there with his family many times.While Ron loved all of this, there was nothing he loved more than his family. Saying he was a proud father and grandfather is an understatement. Karri, Bryce and Myah were his whole world. He stepped up and gave his grandchildren the father figure they needed in their lives.&nbsp;RB is survived by one daughter: Karri Brewer-Wallace of LaHarpe; one grandson and best friend: Bryce (Kahlen Seitz) Marsden of LaHarpe and one granddaughter: Myah Wallace at home. Also surviving is his girlfriend: Carol Wilson of LaHarpe; two sisters: Sarah (Ken) Foxall of Macomb and Donna Newlan of Dallas City; one brother: Terry Brewer of Dallas City; one brother-in-law: Tom Maynard of Pontoosuc, Illinois, Amanda Donaldson who he considered one of his own, his granddog, Waffles and several cousins, nieces and nephews.&nbsp;Besides his wife, he was preceded in death, tragically, by his beloved son: Greg Brewer, his parents, his in-laws: Owen and Louise Collins; one step-son: Jerome Woodside; one sister: Mel Maynard and one brother: Kevin Brewer. His family is at peace knowing he is reunited with these loved ones, especially Greg, who was taken way too soon.&nbsp;Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home of LaHarpe is assisting the family.&nbsp;The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025 at the LaHarpe Christian Church in LaHarpe.&nbsp;The funeral service for RB will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025 at the LaHarpe Christian Church with Pastor Nate McCarter officiating. Burial will follow in Terre Haute, Illinois, Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the church.&nbsp;A memorial fund has been established for Myah Wallace’s education. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Ron’s obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://banksandbeals.com/" target="_blank">banksandbeals.com</a>.&nbsp;

Ron Brewer

Jerrold “Tuff” Dreckmeier, 56, of Burlington, Iowa, died Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

Born on September 24, 1968, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of John and Jean (Austin) Dreckmeier.

Tuff was a 1987 graduate of Burlington High School and worked for Silgan Container for several years. Tuff owned Insane Customs and was a member of the Insane Customs Car Club. He was a huge car enthusiast and loved traveling with friends to car shows. ShowFest, Indy Truck Bash, Low Rider Nationals are a few shows he loved to attend. Tuff also enjoyed attending local car shows in and around the area. In his free time, he enjoyed working on cars and doing custom builds. Most of all Tuff enjoyed being with his family.

He is survived by his parents John and Jean Dreckmeier of Burlington; siblings: Jill (Tim) Olk of Niles, Illinois and Jay Dreckmeier of Flint, Michigan and nephew Braden Dreckmeier. Also surviving are several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, two aunts and four uncles.

Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747695310758.jpeg" alt="Jerold "Tuff" Dreckmeier" />
 <figcaption>Jerold "Tuff" Dreckmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Jerrold “Tuff” Dreckmeier, 56, of Burlington, Iowa, died Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.Born on September 24, 1968, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of John and Jean (Austin) Dreckmeier.Tuff was a 1987 graduate of Burlington High School and worked for Silgan Container for several years. Tuff owned Insane Customs and was a member of the Insane Customs Car Club. He was a huge car enthusiast and loved traveling with friends to car shows. ShowFest, Indy Truck Bash, Low Rider Nationals are a few shows he loved to attend. Tuff also enjoyed attending local car shows in and around the area. In his free time, he enjoyed working on cars and doing custom builds. Most of all Tuff enjoyed being with his family.He is survived by his parents John and Jean Dreckmeier of Burlington; siblings: Jill (Tim) Olk of Niles, Illinois and Jay Dreckmeier of Flint, Michigan and nephew Braden Dreckmeier. Also surviving are several aunts, uncles and cousins.He was preceded in death by his grandparents, two aunts and four uncles.Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Jerrold “Tuff” Dreckmeier

Linda D. McCartney, 70, of Burlington, died Monday, May 19, 2025, after battling cancer for four years. Born on May, 11, 1955, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Jack and Pauline (Stout) Lowther. On Aug. 9, 1980, in Burlington, she married Kevin McCartney. He survives.

Linda worked for Burlington Community School District for forty-two years and retired in 2021. In her free time, she enjoyed quilting, cross stitching and crafting. She was an avid reader and loved to cheer on the Iowa Hawkeye football team. Most of all Linda loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her mother Pauline Lowther; husband Kevin; two sons: Nicholas (Sharon) McCartney of Raleigh, North Carolina and Andrew (Sarah Schmidt) McCartney of Burlington; three grandchildren: Abigail, Cameron and Carson. She is also survived by her sister Marsha (John) Wise of Kirksville, Mo.

She was preceded in death by her father and brother Mike Lowther.

Per her wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747695179923.jpeg" alt="Linda McCartney" />
 <figcaption>Linda McCartney</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda D. McCartney, 70, of Burlington, died Monday, May 19, 2025, after battling cancer for four years. Born on May, 11, 1955, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Jack and Pauline (Stout) Lowther. On Aug. 9, 1980, in Burlington, she married Kevin McCartney. He survives.Linda worked for Burlington Community School District for forty-two years and retired in 2021. In her free time, she enjoyed quilting, cross stitching and crafting. She was an avid reader and loved to cheer on the Iowa Hawkeye football team. Most of all Linda loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren.She is survived by her mother Pauline Lowther; husband Kevin; two sons: Nicholas (Sharon) McCartney of Raleigh, North Carolina and Andrew (Sarah Schmidt) McCartney of Burlington; three grandchildren: Abigail, Cameron and Carson. She is also survived by her sister Marsha (John) Wise of Kirksville, Mo.She was preceded in death by her father and brother Mike Lowther.Per her wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel.

Linda D. McCartney

Thomas Michael Fisher, 71, of Sioux Falls, S.D., died on May 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.&nbsp; He was born Aug. 28, 1953, in Burlington, Iowa and was the son of Catherine and Gerald Fisher.&nbsp;

Tom graduated from Notre Dame High School in Burlington, Iowa in 1971. On May 31, 1975, he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Jo Riffel, in St. John’s Church in Burlington.&nbsp;

Tom joined the family business, Roto-Rooter, in 1975. In 1979 he and his wife welcomed their first child, Jacob Michael Fisher, and two years later in 1981 they were blessed with a daughter, Jill Elizabeth Fisher. In 1986 Tom purchased his own Roto-Rooter franchise in Sioux City, a small one-truck operation which he turned into a thriving corporation. Tom and his family would then make Sioux City their home for the next 20 years. After the kids went off to college, Tom and Mary Jo moved back to their hometown of Burlington, Iowa, to be closer to family and friends. There they would build a home and another successful business. In 2015 Tom and Mary Jo retired to Lake Poinsett in South Dakota to enjoy lake life with their kids and grandkids.&nbsp;

Tom was a loving father and grandfather and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his kids and grandkids. Tom was a devoted father who took great pride in his children's accomplishments and always cheered them on from the sidelines. He never missed a football game, volleyball game, tennis match, or track meet. He adored his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them, whether it was boating, fishing, shed hunting, going for four-wheeler rides, or just sitting around a nice bonfire making smores.&nbsp;

A lifelong hunter and fisherman, Tom cherished the time spent outdoors with loved ones, creating memories in the woods, on the river, and at the lake that will last a lifetime. He loved to water ski, shoot trap, mushroom hunt, and do taxidermy as well. He always looked forward to a good fish fry up at Lake Poinsett surrounded by family and friends. He loved his annual fishing trip with the boys in Canada. It was something he looked forward to and planned for all year round. He would often say that the most important thing in life was his family, and he enjoyed sharing his passion for the outdoors with his children and grandchildren.&nbsp;

Tom will be deeply missed, but his spirit will always be with us, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His spirit of adventure and his unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered.&nbsp;

Survivors include his wife of nearly 50 years, Mary Jo Fisher of Sioux Falls, S.D.; his children, Jacob (Maurin) Fisher and Jill (Kirk) Hinrich both of Sioux Falls, S.D. ; seven grandchildren, Ava Josie, and TJ Fisher and Kenzie, Kyla, Kinley, and Kolton Hinrich; two sisters, Susan Johnson and Christina Lord both of Burlington; three brothers, Terry Fisher, Steve Fisher, and Jason Fisher all of Burlington; and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Maurene (Fisher) Beckman, brother-in-law, Jim Riffel, brother-in-law, Bill Bence, brother-in-law, Richard Lord, sister-in-law Ginger Fisher, and nephew, Chad Crow.&nbsp;

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of George Boom Funeral Home of Sioux Falls, S.D.&nbsp;

Prugh Funeral Home is in care of the funeral arrangements.&nbsp;

The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mr. Fisher will be 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Divine Mercy Parish-SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Divine Mercy Parish - SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington. The memorial Mass will immediately follow at 10 a.m. Family and friends are then invited to a luncheon at noon at Spirit Hollow Lodge, 5592 Club House Drive, Burlington.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, please join us in donating, in Papa Tom’s memory, to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation, a wonderful charity which gives children with life-threatening illnesses an opportunity to go on a once-in-a-lifetime hunting or fishing experience. To donate text PAPATOM to 71777 on your phone or go to https://igfn.us/vf/PAPATOM to donate. Or checks can be made out to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation and given to Mary Jo Fisher or mailed to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation at 2485 Ennis Road, Starkville, MS, 39759. Just make sure to include a note saying that your donation was in honor of Papa Tom.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747694414843.jpeg" alt="Thomas Fisher" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Fisher</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Michael Fisher, 71, of Sioux Falls, S.D., died on May 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.&nbsp; He was born Aug. 28, 1953, in Burlington, Iowa and was the son of Catherine and Gerald Fisher.&nbsp;Tom graduated from Notre Dame High School in Burlington, Iowa in 1971. On May 31, 1975, he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Jo Riffel, in St. John’s Church in Burlington.&nbsp;Tom joined the family business, Roto-Rooter, in 1975. In 1979 he and his wife welcomed their first child, Jacob Michael Fisher, and two years later in 1981 they were blessed with a daughter, Jill Elizabeth Fisher. In 1986 Tom purchased his own Roto-Rooter franchise in Sioux City, a small one-truck operation which he turned into a thriving corporation. Tom and his family would then make Sioux City their home for the next 20 years. After the kids went off to college, Tom and Mary Jo moved back to their hometown of Burlington, Iowa, to be closer to family and friends. There they would build a home and another successful business. In 2015 Tom and Mary Jo retired to Lake Poinsett in South Dakota to enjoy lake life with their kids and grandkids.&nbsp;Tom was a loving father and grandfather and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his kids and grandkids. Tom was a devoted father who took great pride in his children's accomplishments and always cheered them on from the sidelines. He never missed a football game, volleyball game, tennis match, or track meet. He adored his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them, whether it was boating, fishing, shed hunting, going for four-wheeler rides, or just sitting around a nice bonfire making smores.&nbsp;A lifelong hunter and fisherman, Tom cherished the time spent outdoors with loved ones, creating memories in the woods, on the river, and at the lake that will last a lifetime. He loved to water ski, shoot trap, mushroom hunt, and do taxidermy as well. He always looked forward to a good fish fry up at Lake Poinsett surrounded by family and friends. He loved his annual fishing trip with the boys in Canada. It was something he looked forward to and planned for all year round. He would often say that the most important thing in life was his family, and he enjoyed sharing his passion for the outdoors with his children and grandchildren.&nbsp;Tom will be deeply missed, but his spirit will always be with us, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His spirit of adventure and his unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered.&nbsp;Survivors include his wife of nearly 50 years, Mary Jo Fisher of Sioux Falls, S.D.; his children, Jacob (Maurin) Fisher and Jill (Kirk) Hinrich both of Sioux Falls, S.D. ; seven grandchildren, Ava Josie, and TJ Fisher and Kenzie, Kyla, Kinley, and Kolton Hinrich; two sisters, Susan Johnson and Christina Lord both of Burlington; three brothers, Terry Fisher, Steve Fisher, and Jason Fisher all of Burlington; and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Maurene (Fisher) Beckman, brother-in-law, Jim Riffel, brother-in-law, Bill Bence, brother-in-law, Richard Lord, sister-in-law Ginger Fisher, and nephew, Chad Crow.&nbsp;Cremation has been entrusted to the care of George Boom Funeral Home of Sioux Falls, S.D.&nbsp;Prugh Funeral Home is in care of the funeral arrangements.&nbsp;The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mr. Fisher will be 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Divine Mercy Parish-SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West BurlingtonVisitation will be from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Divine Mercy Parish - SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington. The memorial Mass will immediately follow at 10 a.m. Family and friends are then invited to a luncheon at noon at Spirit Hollow Lodge, 5592 Club House Drive, Burlington.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, please join us in donating, in Papa Tom’s memory, to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation, a wonderful charity which gives children with life-threatening illnesses an opportunity to go on a once-in-a-lifetime hunting or fishing experience. To donate text PAPATOM to 71777 on your phone or go to https://igfn.us/vf/PAPATOM to donate. Or checks can be made out to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation and given to Mary Jo Fisher or mailed to the Catch-A-Dream Foundation at 2485 Ennis Road, Starkville, MS, 39759. Just make sure to include a note saying that your donation was in honor of Papa Tom.&nbsp;

Thomas Michael Fisher

Misty Brockett, 58, of Burlington, passed away Friday, May 16, 2025, at 9:21 PM in Rockford, Ill. at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Misty was born in Burlington, Iowa to her mother, Zelma Knotts, and father, Loren Brockett. Misty was raised in Burlington, Iowa by her mother and stepfather, Larry K Knotts Sr., whom she loved very much.&nbsp;

Misty was a beautiful person, she had the best heart anyone could ask for. She would give her shirt off her back to anyone who needed it; no questions asked. She spent her life, enjoying life, playing BINGO, working retail, in which she loved interacting with the public and meeting new people. She gave birth to one beautiful baby girl, Shelby BriAnn Brockett, who quickly became her whole world. Misty loved car rides, especially long ones with her daughter and best friends, sharing laughs until they couldn’t anymore. She loved spending time at the casino, and traveling to new ones with her baby girl. Misty is gone but never forgotten.&nbsp;

She is survived by her mother, Zelma Knotts of Burlington; her one and only daughter, Shelby (Eric) Reynolds of Burlington; three brothers, Troy (Dawn) Cooper of Burlington, Joe Brockett of Rockford, IL, and Loren "Chip" (Tara) Brockett of Rockford IL; one sister Jackie (Sean) Richardson of West Burlington; four nieces, Brina (Dakota) Moyers of Burlington, Taylor Smith of Burlington, Dianna Whitmore of Kirksville, Missouri, Caitlyn Cooper of Oquawka. IL; and several great nieces and nephews. Misty is also survived by her two best friends, who were her rocks; Kellie Beames and Lisa (Brian) Reid both of Burlington, Iowa.&nbsp;

Misty is preceded in death by one brother, Ricky "Cornbread" Knight, her father Loren Brockett, step-father (who was much more than just a step-father) Larry Keith Knotts Sr., four unborn heavenly grandchildren and her special friend, the love her of her life, James Macans.&nbsp;

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Friday, May 23, 2025 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/5/1747694681616.jpeg" alt="Misty Brockett" />
 <figcaption>Misty Brockett</figcaption>
 </figure>Misty Brockett, 58, of Burlington, passed away Friday, May 16, 2025, at 9:21 PM in Rockford, Ill. at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, surrounded by family and loved ones.Misty was born in Burlington, Iowa to her mother, Zelma Knotts, and father, Loren Brockett. Misty was raised in Burlington, Iowa by her mother and stepfather, Larry K Knotts Sr., whom she loved very much.&nbsp;Misty was a beautiful person, she had the best heart anyone could ask for. She would give her shirt off her back to anyone who needed it; no questions asked. She spent her life, enjoying life, playing BINGO, working retail, in which she loved interacting with the public and meeting new people. She gave birth to one beautiful baby girl, Shelby BriAnn Brockett, who quickly became her whole world. Misty loved car rides, especially long ones with her daughter and best friends, sharing laughs until they couldn’t anymore. She loved spending time at the casino, and traveling to new ones with her baby girl. Misty is gone but never forgotten.&nbsp;She is survived by her mother, Zelma Knotts of Burlington; her one and only daughter, Shelby (Eric) Reynolds of Burlington; three brothers, Troy (Dawn) Cooper of Burlington, Joe Brockett of Rockford, IL, and Loren "Chip" (Tara) Brockett of Rockford IL; one sister Jackie (Sean) Richardson of West Burlington; four nieces, Brina (Dakota) Moyers of Burlington, Taylor Smith of Burlington, Dianna Whitmore of Kirksville, Missouri, Caitlyn Cooper of Oquawka. IL; and several great nieces and nephews. Misty is also survived by her two best friends, who were her rocks; Kellie Beames and Lisa (Brian) Reid both of Burlington, Iowa.&nbsp;Misty is preceded in death by one brother, Ricky "Cornbread" Knight, her father Loren Brockett, step-father (who was much more than just a step-father) Larry Keith Knotts Sr., four unborn heavenly grandchildren and her special friend, the love her of her life, James Macans.&nbsp;Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Friday, May 23, 2025 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.The memorial service for Misty will be 2:00 PM, Friday, May 23, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial has been established for her family.

Obituaries