Fredric Muzzy "Fritz" Conrad, 88, of Burlington, died Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice in West Burlington. Born May 17, 1938, in Burlington, he was the son of Max Albert and Florence Ella Muzzy Conrad. In 1966 he married Cheryl Deats and together they had two daughters before their separation. On November 19, 1981, he married Catherine "Kay" Hertel in Burlington.&nbsp; He was a 1956 graduate of Burlington High School. He continued his education at Carthage College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. &nbsp; Fritz worked as an Auditor for the State of Iowa for 34 years until his retirement.&nbsp; He had a true love for staying active and embracing life to the fullest. Over the years, Fritz completed three half triathlons and multiple marathons, and proudly participated in 22 RAGBRAIs. He also enjoyed skiing and explored much of the western Rocky Mountains on the slopes. In retirement, the YMCA became a favorite part of his daily routine, where he could be found working out or visiting with his Y Buddies. He was an active member of Bike Burlington, the Skiowans Ski Club, Burlington Civic Music, and the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra. Through these activities and the many friendships he made along the way, he found countless ways to stay engaged, have fun, and enjoy the people around him. Survivors include his wife, "Kay" Conrad of Burlington; two daughters, Christina (Joseph) Fowler of Maryland and Carolynn Conrad of Florida; four grandsons, Joseph, Matthew and Daniel Fowler and Gavin Conrad; and his cousin, Glen Thompson of West Burlington. He was preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. The funeral service for Mr. Conrad will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery at a later date.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House, Des Moines County Humane Society, and Burlington YMCA. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Fritz's obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.prughfuneral.com/" target="_blank">www.prughfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788983169048.jpeg" alt="Fritz Conrad" />
 <figcaption>Fritz Conrad</figcaption>
 </figure>Fredric Muzzy "Fritz" Conrad, 88, of Burlington, died Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice in West Burlington. Born May 17, 1938, in Burlington, he was the son of Max Albert and Florence Ella Muzzy Conrad. In 1966 he married Cheryl Deats and together they had two daughters before their separation. On November 19, 1981, he married Catherine "Kay" Hertel in Burlington.&nbsp; He was a 1956 graduate of Burlington High School. He continued his education at Carthage College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. &nbsp; Fritz worked as an Auditor for the State of Iowa for 34 years until his retirement.&nbsp; He had a true love for staying active and embracing life to the fullest. Over the years, Fritz completed three half triathlons and multiple marathons, and proudly participated in 22 RAGBRAIs. He also enjoyed skiing and explored much of the western Rocky Mountains on the slopes. In retirement, the YMCA became a favorite part of his daily routine, where he could be found working out or visiting with his Y Buddies. He was an active member of Bike Burlington, the Skiowans Ski Club, Burlington Civic Music, and the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra. Through these activities and the many friendships he made along the way, he found countless ways to stay engaged, have fun, and enjoy the people around him. Survivors include his wife, "Kay" Conrad of Burlington; two daughters, Christina (Joseph) Fowler of Maryland and Carolynn Conrad of Florida; four grandsons, Joseph, Matthew and Daniel Fowler and Gavin Conrad; and his cousin, Glen Thompson of West Burlington. He was preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. The funeral service for Mr. Conrad will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery at a later date.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House, Des Moines County Humane Society, and Burlington YMCA. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Fritz's obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.prughfuneral.com/" target="_blank">www.prughfuneral.com</a>.

Fredric Muzzy "Fritz" Conrad

Kevin Wade Thompson, 73, of Lomax, Illinois, passed away at 5:50 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa.

Kevin was born December 20, 1952, in LaHarpe, Illinois, the son of Robert H. and Joyce Thompson and Nancy (Osburn) Pennock. Earlier in life, he married Debra Musgrove. They later divorced. On May 1, 1987, he married Teresa Ann Brown in Lawton, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death on December 21, 2021.

Mr. Thompson was a 1970 graduate of Dallas City High School. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a Field Artillery Surveyor and Unit Supply Sergeant. He was Honorably Discharged after 17 years of service. Following his service, he received his teaching certificate. He taught for Vision Quest in Arizona and Florida before returning to Lomax, where he continued to substitute teach at local schools.

Kevin was an avid sports fan; he especially enjoyed following his family members’ sporting events and his beloved Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed helping others and would often volunteer to drive other Veterans to their appointments when needed.

Survivors include one son: Terry (Miriam) Thompson of Orlando, Florida; one daughter: Tammy (Josh) Resendez of McGregor, Texas; one step-daughter: Sue Ann Huckaby of Macomb, Illinois, step-mother: Joyce Thompson of Lomax; five grandchildren: Josiah Thompson, Gabriella Thompson, Avery Thompson, Dalton Thulen and Ashton Thulen; five sisters: Rhonda Foley of Burlington, Melanie (Rick) Evans of Lomax, Leana Yard of LaHarpe, Andrea Thompson of Cedar Rapids and Marie (Robert) Berry of Lomax; numerous nieces and nephews and a special friend: JuJu of West Burlington.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Karl Thompson and two nieces: Nichole Harman and Tracy Harman.

Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home.

As per Kevin’s wishes, no services are planned at this time. A memorial fund has been established for Mosaic of Macomb. Memorials and cards may be sent to the Kevin Thompson Memorial Fund, c/o Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home, PO Box 503, LaHarpe, Illinois 61450.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788968517576.jpeg" alt="Kevin Wade Thompson" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Wade Thompson</figcaption>
 </figure>Kevin Wade Thompson, 73, of Lomax, Illinois, passed away at 5:50 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa.Kevin was born December 20, 1952, in LaHarpe, Illinois, the son of Robert H. and Joyce Thompson and Nancy (Osburn) Pennock. Earlier in life, he married Debra Musgrove. They later divorced. On May 1, 1987, he married Teresa Ann Brown in Lawton, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death on December 21, 2021.Mr. Thompson was a 1970 graduate of Dallas City High School. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a Field Artillery Surveyor and Unit Supply Sergeant. He was Honorably Discharged after 17 years of service. Following his service, he received his teaching certificate. He taught for Vision Quest in Arizona and Florida before returning to Lomax, where he continued to substitute teach at local schools.Kevin was an avid sports fan; he especially enjoyed following his family members’ sporting events and his beloved Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed helping others and would often volunteer to drive other Veterans to their appointments when needed.Survivors include one son: Terry (Miriam) Thompson of Orlando, Florida; one daughter: Tammy (Josh) Resendez of McGregor, Texas; one step-daughter: Sue Ann Huckaby of Macomb, Illinois, step-mother: Joyce Thompson of Lomax; five grandchildren: Josiah Thompson, Gabriella Thompson, Avery Thompson, Dalton Thulen and Ashton Thulen; five sisters: Rhonda Foley of Burlington, Melanie (Rick) Evans of Lomax, Leana Yard of LaHarpe, Andrea Thompson of Cedar Rapids and Marie (Robert) Berry of Lomax; numerous nieces and nephews and a special friend: JuJu of West Burlington.He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Karl Thompson and two nieces: Nichole Harman and Tracy Harman.Cremation has been entrusted to Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home.As per Kevin’s wishes, no services are planned at this time. A memorial fund has been established for Mosaic of Macomb. Memorials and cards may be sent to the Kevin Thompson Memorial Fund, c/o Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home, PO Box 503, LaHarpe, Illinois 61450.

Kevin Wade Thompson

Phyllis Mary Ann (Denning) Steffensmeier, 92, of the Houghton area, passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026.

She was born on February 14, 1934, in Houghton, Iowa, the fifth child of Joe and Nellie (Freesmeier) Denning. She graduated from St. John's High School in Houghton and was a lifelong resident of the Houghton area. On September 4, 1954, she married R. Paul Steffensmeier.

Survivors include her children: Penny (Larry) Walter of Shawnee, Kansas, Rus (Bev) Steffensmeier of Houghton, Iowa, Rhonda Peseau of Arlington, Washington and Ritch (Amy) Steffensmeier of Prairie Village, Kansas; eleven grandchildren: Kurt (Hallie) Steffensmeier, Bobbi (Ryan) Kruse, Karla (Lynn) Williams, Austin (Tiffany) Walter, Russell Walter, Allison Walter, Hannah (Ilya) Glazunov, Will Peseau, Jade (Daniel) Johnson, Halle Steffensmeier and Breck Steffensmeier; ten great-grandchildren and one sister: Sr. Jane Denning.

She was preceded in death by her husband: Paul; her daughter: Pam; one son at birth; her parents: Joe and Nellie Denning; her brothers: Fr. Jack Denning, Jim Denning and her sisters: Ruth Mertens and LaVerne Coffey.

Phyllis was deeply rooted in the community she loved throughout her life. Her faith, family, and friendships were at the center of everything she did. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, generosity, and quiet strength touched all who knew her.

She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and especially enjoyed playing cards. Her warm smile, caring nature and unwavering devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished by all whose lives she touched.

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

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, September 27, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Father Dan Dorau as celebrant.

Burial will be held at St. John's Cemetery in Houghton. A luncheon will follow.

Memorials have been established in her memory for Holy Trinity Catholic Schools or Houghton Fire and Rescue.

Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788666765302.jpeg" alt="Phyllis Steffensmeier" />
 <figcaption>Phyllis Steffensmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Phyllis Mary Ann (Denning) Steffensmeier, 92, of the Houghton area, passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026.She was born on February 14, 1934, in Houghton, Iowa, the fifth child of Joe and Nellie (Freesmeier) Denning. She graduated from St. John's High School in Houghton and was a lifelong resident of the Houghton area. On September 4, 1954, she married R. Paul Steffensmeier.Survivors include her children: Penny (Larry) Walter of Shawnee, Kansas, Rus (Bev) Steffensmeier of Houghton, Iowa, Rhonda Peseau of Arlington, Washington and Ritch (Amy) Steffensmeier of Prairie Village, Kansas; eleven grandchildren: Kurt (Hallie) Steffensmeier, Bobbi (Ryan) Kruse, Karla (Lynn) Williams, Austin (Tiffany) Walter, Russell Walter, Allison Walter, Hannah (Ilya) Glazunov, Will Peseau, Jade (Daniel) Johnson, Halle Steffensmeier and Breck Steffensmeier; ten great-grandchildren and one sister: Sr. Jane Denning.She was preceded in death by her husband: Paul; her daughter: Pam; one son at birth; her parents: Joe and Nellie Denning; her brothers: Fr. Jack Denning, Jim Denning and her sisters: Ruth Mertens and LaVerne Coffey.Phyllis was deeply rooted in the community she loved throughout her life. Her faith, family, and friendships were at the center of everything she did. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, generosity, and quiet strength touched all who knew her.She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and especially enjoyed playing cards. Her warm smile, caring nature and unwavering devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished by all whose lives she touched.Her body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, September 27, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Father Dan Dorau as celebrant.Burial will be held at St. John's Cemetery in Houghton. A luncheon will follow.Memorials have been established in her memory for Holy Trinity Catholic Schools or Houghton Fire and Rescue.Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp;

Phyllis Mary Ann Steffensmeier

La Von Joyce Vantiger, 92, of Mediapolis, formerly of West Point, died Friday, September 4, 2026, at Azria Health Prairie Ridge in Mediapolis.&nbsp;&nbsp;She was born April 22, 1934, to James Earl Knous and Velda Louise Anderson Pearson.&nbsp;&nbsp;She was raised a mile and a half south of Lowell and was a graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;La Von was a member of the Denmark Congregational Church, where she sang in the church choir and also for weddings and funerals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She married George Dennis Moore, and they later divorced.&nbsp;&nbsp;She then married Carl W. Vantiger, who preceded her in death.

La Von spent many years working in floral nurseries and was an accomplished artist, having sold many of her oil paintings.&nbsp;&nbsp;She loved flowers, working in her flower beds, and vegetable gardening, at one time having fifty-two pots!&nbsp;&nbsp;She raised her grandson Steven and her great-grandson Zachery until he was ten years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her claim to fame is being on radio station WHO, singing with Fred Astaire and Songfellos at the age of fifteen.

Survivors include her daughter Deborah Carter of West Burlington; son Jeffrey (Penny) Vantiger of Ft. Madison; half-brothers Larry (Berta) Pearson of New London and Gary (Denise) Knous of Sperry; half-sister Judy (Wes) Knous-Bruning of Oregon; seven grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides her parents and husband Carl, she was preceded in death by half-brothers Leon Pearson and Ronnie Knous; and her sister Ann Thornton.

According to her wishes, her body has been cremated, and a private family burial will be held at Burge Cemetery, rural New London.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cards or memorials may be sent to Deborah Carter, 507 Vernon, Apartment 312, West Burlington, IA 52655.&nbsp;&nbsp;Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family.

La Von Joyce Vantiger, 92, of Mediapolis, formerly of West Point, died Friday, September 4, 2026, at Azria Health Prairie Ridge in Mediapolis.&nbsp;&nbsp;She was born April 22, 1934, to James Earl Knous and Velda Louise Anderson Pearson.&nbsp;&nbsp;She was raised a mile and a half south of Lowell and was a graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;La Von was a member of the Denmark Congregational Church, where she sang in the church choir and also for weddings and funerals.&nbsp;&nbsp;She married George Dennis Moore, and they later divorced.&nbsp;&nbsp;She then married Carl W. Vantiger, who preceded her in death.La Von spent many years working in floral nurseries and was an accomplished artist, having sold many of her oil paintings.&nbsp;&nbsp;She loved flowers, working in her flower beds, and vegetable gardening, at one time having fifty-two pots!&nbsp;&nbsp;She raised her grandson Steven and her great-grandson Zachery until he was ten years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her claim to fame is being on radio station WHO, singing with Fred Astaire and Songfellos at the age of fifteen.Survivors include her daughter Deborah Carter of West Burlington; son Jeffrey (Penny) Vantiger of Ft. Madison; half-brothers Larry (Berta) Pearson of New London and Gary (Denise) Knous of Sperry; half-sister Judy (Wes) Knous-Bruning of Oregon; seven grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides her parents and husband Carl, she was preceded in death by half-brothers Leon Pearson and Ronnie Knous; and her sister Ann Thornton.According to her wishes, her body has been cremated, and a private family burial will be held at Burge Cemetery, rural New London.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cards or memorials may be sent to Deborah Carter, 507 Vernon, Apartment 312, West Burlington, IA 52655.&nbsp;&nbsp;Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family.

La Von Joyce Vantiger

Beverly Ann Ort, 78, of Croton, Iowa, passed away at 6:11 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois.

She was born on February 10, 1948, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the daughter of Ennos Walter and Eilean Louise (Blincoe) Wiseman. She married Mel Ort at the Embury United Methodist Church in rural Donnellson. They were married for twelve years.

She is survived by her son, Roy (Alice) Ort of Holland, Michigan; grandchildren: Maxwell, Jon, Evelyn; bonus daughter: Dianna Fellows; brother: Robert (Carla) Wiseman of Chehalis, Washington; and sister, Jan (Dave) Allburn of Glouster, Ohio. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers: Neil and Ryan Wiseman.

Bev was a lifelong farmer and worked at Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. She was a devoted member of Embury United Methodist Church, where she played the organ for many years. She loved Jesus, Busch Light and giving friends a hard time.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, where the family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Embury United Methodist Church in rural Donnellson, with Pastor Nancy St. Clair officiating.

Burial will be at Embury Cemetery, rural Donnellson.

A memorial has been established in her memory for Embury United Methodist Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788666217206.jpeg" alt="Beverly "Bev" Ort" />
 <figcaption>Beverly "Bev" Ort</figcaption>
 </figure>Beverly Ann Ort, 78, of Croton, Iowa, passed away at 6:11 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois.She was born on February 10, 1948, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the daughter of Ennos Walter and Eilean Louise (Blincoe) Wiseman. She married Mel Ort at the Embury United Methodist Church in rural Donnellson. They were married for twelve years.She is survived by her son, Roy (Alice) Ort of Holland, Michigan; grandchildren: Maxwell, Jon, Evelyn; bonus daughter: Dianna Fellows; brother: Robert (Carla) Wiseman of Chehalis, Washington; and sister, Jan (Dave) Allburn of Glouster, Ohio. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers: Neil and Ryan Wiseman.Bev was a lifelong farmer and worked at Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. She was a devoted member of Embury United Methodist Church, where she played the organ for many years. She loved Jesus, Busch Light and giving friends a hard time.A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, where the family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Embury United Methodist Church in rural Donnellson, with Pastor Nancy St. Clair officiating.Burial will be at Embury Cemetery, rural Donnellson.A memorial has been established in her memory for Embury United Methodist Church.

Beverly Ann Ort

LaVerne J. Miller, 101, of Iowa City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026. She was born November 26, 1924, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to George and Agnes Hendrickson, attending grade school and high school in Minneapolis. Following graduation, she worked as a bank teller and as an airline stewardess. In 1949, she married Everett Woodrow Miller and moved with him to Des Moines, Iowa. After brief stays in Des Moines, Grinnell, and Oakville, Iowa, they moved in 1956 to Burlington, Iowa, where Everett worked as a manager for Montgomery Wards. Sons Steven and John were born in 1952 and 1954. Following Everett's death in 1971, LaVerne worked as an executive assistant at Champion Products in Burlington. In 1956, John was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia Ossificans Progressiva, a rare and painful muscle disease that progressed until he was left bedridden shortly after High School. LaVerne provided him with loving care in her home for the next forty years. Following John's death in 2017, she moved to Melrose Meadows, a retirement community in Iowa City, Iowa, to be closer to Steve and his family. LaVerne is survived by her son Steven Paul Miller and his wife Ann Marie Rhodes of Iowa City, granddaughters Kathleen Kennedy Miller, Elizabeth Rhodes Miller, and Mary Caroline Rhodes, and great-grandchildren Lachlan and Callum Miller. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Everett, sister Lorraine Hendrickson, brother George Hendrickson, and son John. The funeral service for Mrs. Miller will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the burial. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for contributions to the International Fibromyalgia Ossificans Progressiva Association (IFOPA) or to the Bird House Hospice of Johnson County. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting LaVerne's obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.prughfuneral.com/" target="_blank">www.prughfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788404912067.jpeg" alt="Laverne Miller" />
 <figcaption>Laverne Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>LaVerne J. Miller, 101, of Iowa City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026. She was born November 26, 1924, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to George and Agnes Hendrickson, attending grade school and high school in Minneapolis. Following graduation, she worked as a bank teller and as an airline stewardess. In 1949, she married Everett Woodrow Miller and moved with him to Des Moines, Iowa. After brief stays in Des Moines, Grinnell, and Oakville, Iowa, they moved in 1956 to Burlington, Iowa, where Everett worked as a manager for Montgomery Wards. Sons Steven and John were born in 1952 and 1954. Following Everett's death in 1971, LaVerne worked as an executive assistant at Champion Products in Burlington. In 1956, John was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia Ossificans Progressiva, a rare and painful muscle disease that progressed until he was left bedridden shortly after High School. LaVerne provided him with loving care in her home for the next forty years. Following John's death in 2017, she moved to Melrose Meadows, a retirement community in Iowa City, Iowa, to be closer to Steve and his family. LaVerne is survived by her son Steven Paul Miller and his wife Ann Marie Rhodes of Iowa City, granddaughters Kathleen Kennedy Miller, Elizabeth Rhodes Miller, and Mary Caroline Rhodes, and great-grandchildren Lachlan and Callum Miller. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Everett, sister Lorraine Hendrickson, brother George Hendrickson, and son John. The funeral service for Mrs. Miller will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the burial. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for contributions to the International Fibromyalgia Ossificans Progressiva Association (IFOPA) or to the Bird House Hospice of Johnson County. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting LaVerne's obituary at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.prughfuneral.com/" target="_blank">www.prughfuneral.com</a>.

Laverne J. Miller

Barbara Donna Anderson, 85, of Burlington, died Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington. Born December 12, 1940, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Donald Henry and Esther Barbara Haubenschild Hallberg. On August 8, 1962, she married Robert Manly Anderson at Trinity Lutheran Church, Burlington. He died on May 20, 2017. Barbara worked as a data processor for the hospital and as a paycheck processor for J.I. Case. She was very active in TOPS and recorded their weekly meetings. Barbara loved crafting, especially crocheting and ceramics. She liked to watch Wheel of Fortune and the Cardinals play baseball. Barbara and Robert loved watching racing; whether it was NASCAR, Sprint Car, Indy 500 races and especially cheering her family during their races. She had a deep love for her family and was so proud to see the success they achieved throughout their lives. Survivors include two sons, Bob (Joni) Anderson of Burlington and David (Heidi) Anderson of Palm Beach, FL; daughter-in-law, Lisa Anderson of Carthage, IL; nine grandchildren, Codey (Cheyenne) Anderson, Bailey Anderson, Carter Anderson, Brett Anderson, Morgan (Trey) Wood, Brad (Avery) Anderson, Corbyn Anderson, Carra Anderson, and Coulton Wascher; great-grandchildren Taran Anderson, Arya Anderson and Isabella Wood; and sister, Susan Kay Moehle of Burlington. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; son, Donald Anderson; and brother-in-law, George Moehle,&nbsp; There will be no formal services at this time. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788366582919.jpeg" alt="Barbara Anderson" />
 <figcaption>Barbara Anderson</figcaption>
 </figure>Barbara Donna Anderson, 85, of Burlington, died Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington. Born December 12, 1940, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Donald Henry and Esther Barbara Haubenschild Hallberg. On August 8, 1962, she married Robert Manly Anderson at Trinity Lutheran Church, Burlington. He died on May 20, 2017. Barbara worked as a data processor for the hospital and as a paycheck processor for J.I. Case. She was very active in TOPS and recorded their weekly meetings. Barbara loved crafting, especially crocheting and ceramics. She liked to watch Wheel of Fortune and the Cardinals play baseball. Barbara and Robert loved watching racing; whether it was NASCAR, Sprint Car, Indy 500 races and especially cheering her family during their races. She had a deep love for her family and was so proud to see the success they achieved throughout their lives. Survivors include two sons, Bob (Joni) Anderson of Burlington and David (Heidi) Anderson of Palm Beach, FL; daughter-in-law, Lisa Anderson of Carthage, IL; nine grandchildren, Codey (Cheyenne) Anderson, Bailey Anderson, Carter Anderson, Brett Anderson, Morgan (Trey) Wood, Brad (Avery) Anderson, Corbyn Anderson, Carra Anderson, and Coulton Wascher; great-grandchildren Taran Anderson, Arya Anderson and Isabella Wood; and sister, Susan Kay Moehle of Burlington. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; son, Donald Anderson; and brother-in-law, George Moehle,&nbsp; There will be no formal services at this time. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Barbara Donna Anderson

Donna J. Pence, 93, of Burlington, died Monday morning, August 31, 2026 at the OakView in Burlington.

She was born on February 22, 1933, in Burlington, Iowa, the daughter of Paul and Isabelle Anderson. On October 30, 1955, she married George S. Pence, and he preceded her in death on March 13, 2006.

Donna graduated from Burlington High School in 1951. She worked at National Research, Sylvania, Dr. Milford Nelson, Drs. Nelson and Taylor, and then at Trailways as a travel tour hostess for 15 years; her ideal job!

Donna loved people and never knew a stranger. She always had a smile, loved to give hugs and receive them, was a very humble person, had a positive attitude, a great personality, loving and shared with joy in her heart.

She loved to travel, especially to Las Vegas, going out to lunch with friends, watching birds on the feeder, reading and listening to instrumental music, and going to the casino.

Donna is survived by many friends and neighbors.

The word Goodbye was not in her vocabulary, so she always said, “I’ll see ya! “

Special Thank You to the Staff and her family at OakView and Compassus Hospice of Washington for taking care of her.

The memorial graveside service for Donna J. Pence will be held at Aspen Grove Cemetery at 10 am Tuesday, September 8, 2026, with Pastor Brad Moore officiating.

Lunning Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Online condolences can be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/9/1788366370667.jpeg" alt="Donna J. Pence" />
 <figcaption>Donna J. Pence</figcaption>
 </figure>Donna J. Pence, 93, of Burlington, died Monday morning, August 31, 2026 at the OakView in Burlington.She was born on February 22, 1933, in Burlington, Iowa, the daughter of Paul and Isabelle Anderson. On October 30, 1955, she married George S. Pence, and he preceded her in death on March 13, 2006.Donna graduated from Burlington High School in 1951. She worked at National Research, Sylvania, Dr. Milford Nelson, Drs. Nelson and Taylor, and then at Trailways as a travel tour hostess for 15 years; her ideal job!Donna loved people and never knew a stranger. She always had a smile, loved to give hugs and receive them, was a very humble person, had a positive attitude, a great personality, loving and shared with joy in her heart.She loved to travel, especially to Las Vegas, going out to lunch with friends, watching birds on the feeder, reading and listening to instrumental music, and going to the casino.Donna is survived by many friends and neighbors.The word Goodbye was not in her vocabulary, so she always said, “I’ll see ya! “Special Thank You to the Staff and her family at OakView and Compassus Hospice of Washington for taking care of her.The memorial graveside service for Donna J. Pence will be held at Aspen Grove Cemetery at 10 am Tuesday, September 8, 2026, with Pastor Brad Moore officiating.Lunning Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.Online condolences can be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

Donna J. Pence

Dean Keith Kemp, 73, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born August 25, 1953, in Burlington, he was the son of Leon George and Dorothy Verona Younk Kemp. On June 6, 1998, he married the love of his life, Maureen Charlotte Mannion, in Troy, Mont. She passed away on February 25, 2026.&nbsp; Dean worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for many years. Dean loved spending time outdoors, including hunting, shooting, and fishing. He was a gifted woodworker as well and enjoyed building his own furniture.&nbsp; Survivors include three daughters, Monica Kemp, Leah Virginia (Byron) Droz both of Burlington, and Siobhan McNulty of Bend, Ore.; two sons, Aziel R. Kemp of Iowa and Nakoa Kemp of Burlington; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Linda Turley of Burlington. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Alan Kemp. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1788214417902.jpeg" alt="Dean Kemp" />
 <figcaption>Dean Kemp</figcaption>
 </figure>Dean Keith Kemp, 73, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born August 25, 1953, in Burlington, he was the son of Leon George and Dorothy Verona Younk Kemp. On June 6, 1998, he married the love of his life, Maureen Charlotte Mannion, in Troy, Mont. She passed away on February 25, 2026.&nbsp; Dean worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for many years. Dean loved spending time outdoors, including hunting, shooting, and fishing. He was a gifted woodworker as well and enjoyed building his own furniture.&nbsp; Survivors include three daughters, Monica Kemp, Leah Virginia (Byron) Droz both of Burlington, and Siobhan McNulty of Bend, Ore.; two sons, Aziel R. Kemp of Iowa and Nakoa Kemp of Burlington; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Linda Turley of Burlington. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Alan Kemp. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Dean Keith Kemp

Paula Kay Cunningham, 73, of West Burlington, Iowa, died at 9:40 p.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.

Paula was born July 4, 1953 in LaHarpe, Illinois, the daughter of Kemper and Olka (Thrapp) Cunningham.

Paula was a 1971 graduate of Burlington High School. Shortly after high school, she was employed for a few years at Leopold Desk Company in Burlington, before beginning a 35 year career with USG in Burlington. She also tended bar at the VFW and Hot Toddies in Burlington for many years.

She was a member of the Burlington Eagles Club, ABATE of Iowa District 18 and the Burlington VFW Auxiliary, where she was currently serving as trustee. Paula enjoyed fishing, camping, attending sprint car races, playing cards and playing pool. She was a past winner of the Burlington City Pool League. She was a lover of animals and rescued many shelter animals in her life.

Survivors include one son: Shane Litton of West Burlington, Iowa; one sister-in-law: Carol Cunningham of Lomax, Illinois, one niece: Theresa Middleton; one nephew: Rod Cunningham and several great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother: Max Cunningham and one sister: Carol Kurth.

The funeral service for Paula will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City. Burial will follow at Crane Cemetery, near Lomax.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until time of services Thursday, September 3, 2026 at the funeral home.

A memorial fund has been established for the&nbsp;<a href="https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=funeralhome" target="_blank">American Cancer Society</a>&nbsp;or the ALS Association.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1788199199627.jpeg" alt="Paula Cunningham" />
 <figcaption>Paula Cunningham</figcaption>
 </figure>Paula Kay Cunningham, 73, of West Burlington, Iowa, died at 9:40 p.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.Paula was born July 4, 1953 in LaHarpe, Illinois, the daughter of Kemper and Olka (Thrapp) Cunningham.Paula was a 1971 graduate of Burlington High School. Shortly after high school, she was employed for a few years at Leopold Desk Company in Burlington, before beginning a 35 year career with USG in Burlington. She also tended bar at the VFW and Hot Toddies in Burlington for many years.She was a member of the Burlington Eagles Club, ABATE of Iowa District 18 and the Burlington VFW Auxiliary, where she was currently serving as trustee. Paula enjoyed fishing, camping, attending sprint car races, playing cards and playing pool. She was a past winner of the Burlington City Pool League. She was a lover of animals and rescued many shelter animals in her life.Survivors include one son: Shane Litton of West Burlington, Iowa; one sister-in-law: Carol Cunningham of Lomax, Illinois, one niece: Theresa Middleton; one nephew: Rod Cunningham and several great-nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother: Max Cunningham and one sister: Carol Kurth.The funeral service for Paula will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City. Burial will follow at Crane Cemetery, near Lomax.The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until time of services Thursday, September 3, 2026 at the funeral home.A memorial fund has been established for the&nbsp;<a href="https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=funeralhome" target="_blank">American Cancer Society</a>&nbsp;or the ALS Association.&nbsp;

Paula Kay Cunningham

Earl Dillard Mansfield, 90, formerly of Burlington and Sperry, died on August 21, 2026, at Central Wyoming Hospice &amp; Transitions in Casper, Wyoming.

Earl was born at the family home in Louisiana to John and Lela (Reid) Mansfield. He moved to Burlington at age 20, where he worked at Leopold Desk Company and later, at Georgia Pacific. Fishing and hunting became favorite activities, and ones he shared with friends.

He met Marcia Louise Christensen thanks to mutual friends, and the couple married on June 17, 1960. They had one daughter, Gayle Ilene, born on March 25, 1961. The family moved to Sperry, in 1971, owning 14 acres of land. Earl farmed a portion of the land and also remained a factory worker. He and his family began the enjoyable activities of nature photography, bird watching, and feeding and providing shelter for songbirds. These activities remained an important part of Earl’s life to his older age.

Because of his love for the outdoors and the American west, the family to Casper, Wyoming in 1978, and in 1981, Earl and Marcia again relocated, this time to western Montana. Earl began working seasonally for Montana Fish, Wildlife &amp; Parks, working for the agency for nearly 15 years before retiring.&nbsp;

He and Marcia spent the next nearly 30 years living in Denton, Montana in the central part of the state. He pursued his love for elk and other wildlife by visiting the Charlie Russell National Wildlife Refuge numerous times and hiking and camping in the mountains around Lewistown.

In October 2023, Earl and Marcia moved to Glenrock, Wyoming to be near their daughter and son-in-law. They visited many natural places, such as national parks and wild horse herd management areas. One of the greatest gifts Earl gave his family was a love and appreciation for the natural world.

Before his passing, Earl was able to celebrate 66 years of marriage with his wife and his 90th birthday at which friends and family gathered with him.

Earl is survived by his wife, Marcia of Glenrock; daughter Gayle (Greg) Irwin of Casper; brother Shelby (Maggie) of Prairie City, Oregon; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives, and countless friends in all the states in which he lived. He was preceded in death by his father, John, mother Lela, brothers Anthony and Russell, sister Zannie Marie (Mansfield) Regan, sister-in-law Mildred, brother-in-law Victor Regan, and niece Tammy (Mansfield) Nelson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Dedman-Hokanson Animal Shelter in Fort Benton, Montana, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.&nbsp;

No services are planned. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Central Wyoming Hospice &amp; Transitions for the compassionate care during Earl’s last week of life on this earth.

Earl Dillard Mansfield, 90, formerly of Burlington and Sperry, died on August 21, 2026, at Central Wyoming Hospice &amp; Transitions in Casper, Wyoming.Earl was born at the family home in Louisiana to John and Lela (Reid) Mansfield. He moved to Burlington at age 20, where he worked at Leopold Desk Company and later, at Georgia Pacific. Fishing and hunting became favorite activities, and ones he shared with friends.He met Marcia Louise Christensen thanks to mutual friends, and the couple married on June 17, 1960. They had one daughter, Gayle Ilene, born on March 25, 1961. The family moved to Sperry, in 1971, owning 14 acres of land. Earl farmed a portion of the land and also remained a factory worker. He and his family began the enjoyable activities of nature photography, bird watching, and feeding and providing shelter for songbirds. These activities remained an important part of Earl’s life to his older age.Because of his love for the outdoors and the American west, the family to Casper, Wyoming in 1978, and in 1981, Earl and Marcia again relocated, this time to western Montana. Earl began working seasonally for Montana Fish, Wildlife &amp; Parks, working for the agency for nearly 15 years before retiring.&nbsp;He and Marcia spent the next nearly 30 years living in Denton, Montana in the central part of the state. He pursued his love for elk and other wildlife by visiting the Charlie Russell National Wildlife Refuge numerous times and hiking and camping in the mountains around Lewistown.In October 2023, Earl and Marcia moved to Glenrock, Wyoming to be near their daughter and son-in-law. They visited many natural places, such as national parks and wild horse herd management areas. One of the greatest gifts Earl gave his family was a love and appreciation for the natural world.Before his passing, Earl was able to celebrate 66 years of marriage with his wife and his 90th birthday at which friends and family gathered with him.Earl is survived by his wife, Marcia of Glenrock; daughter Gayle (Greg) Irwin of Casper; brother Shelby (Maggie) of Prairie City, Oregon; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives, and countless friends in all the states in which he lived. He was preceded in death by his father, John, mother Lela, brothers Anthony and Russell, sister Zannie Marie (Mansfield) Regan, sister-in-law Mildred, brother-in-law Victor Regan, and niece Tammy (Mansfield) Nelson.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Dedman-Hokanson Animal Shelter in Fort Benton, Montana, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.&nbsp;No services are planned. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Central Wyoming Hospice &amp; Transitions for the compassionate care during Earl’s last week of life on this earth.

Earl Dillard Mansfield

Robert Mark Hermann, 74, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born October 2, 1951, in Burlington, Mark was the son of Robert Hermann and Doris Imogene Moreland Hermann Kesler. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1970.&nbsp; Mark met the love of his life, Linda J. (Calvin) Hermann, in junior high school, and they married on June 26, 1971. They recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. Mark’s greatest joy was his family, and he will be remembered as a truly devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and son-in-law. After high school, he worked at Modern Welding before joining J.I. Case where he completed an apprenticeship and spent 30 years as an electrician. He was also a member of the UAW. Even after retirement, he continued taking on electrical jobs for family and friends. Mark was a man of many talents. He was the drummer in his high school band, the Alley Cats, and was named Artist of the Month at the Burlington Public Library, where he displayed some of his many nature-inspired watercolors and acrylics. Mark loved animals and they loved him. Among his many passions were woodworking, Okinawan Karate, fixing anything he could get his hands on, searching for bargains at garage sales, fishing, and mushroom hunting. Above all, he cherished his family and would support them in any way he could. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda, of Burlington; his children and grandchildren: Heather Hermann of Burlington and her daughters, Cora and Saoirse; Kerri Hermann of Blue Springs, Missouri, and her daughters, Allie, Chloe, Grace, and Emma; Katy Dodds of Burlington and her son, Jack; and Luke and Crystal Hermann of North Liberty and their children, Aubrey and Logan. He is also survived by his mother, Doris; his mother-in-law, Janet Calvin; six brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-law; ten nephews; and seven nieces. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Arthur Moreland and Maude (Marie) Fitzgerald Moreland and Tobias Hermann and Caroline (Nellie) Larsen Hermann; his father, Robert Hermann; his sister, Linda Krogmeier; his stepfather, Kent Kesler; and his father-in-law, Ted Calvin. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on October 3, 2026, from 1:00-3:00 PM at the Bart Howard Lounge in Burlington, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holden Cancer Center Research Fund or Southeast Iowa Regional Home Health and Hospice. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1788151345852.jpeg" alt="Robert Mark Hermann" />
 <figcaption>Robert Mark Hermann</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Mark Hermann, 74, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born October 2, 1951, in Burlington, Mark was the son of Robert Hermann and Doris Imogene Moreland Hermann Kesler. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1970.&nbsp; Mark met the love of his life, Linda J. (Calvin) Hermann, in junior high school, and they married on June 26, 1971. They recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. Mark’s greatest joy was his family, and he will be remembered as a truly devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and son-in-law. After high school, he worked at Modern Welding before joining J.I. Case where he completed an apprenticeship and spent 30 years as an electrician. He was also a member of the UAW. Even after retirement, he continued taking on electrical jobs for family and friends. Mark was a man of many talents. He was the drummer in his high school band, the Alley Cats, and was named Artist of the Month at the Burlington Public Library, where he displayed some of his many nature-inspired watercolors and acrylics. Mark loved animals and they loved him. Among his many passions were woodworking, Okinawan Karate, fixing anything he could get his hands on, searching for bargains at garage sales, fishing, and mushroom hunting. Above all, he cherished his family and would support them in any way he could. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda, of Burlington; his children and grandchildren: Heather Hermann of Burlington and her daughters, Cora and Saoirse; Kerri Hermann of Blue Springs, Missouri, and her daughters, Allie, Chloe, Grace, and Emma; Katy Dodds of Burlington and her son, Jack; and Luke and Crystal Hermann of North Liberty and their children, Aubrey and Logan. He is also survived by his mother, Doris; his mother-in-law, Janet Calvin; six brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-law; ten nephews; and seven nieces. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Arthur Moreland and Maude (Marie) Fitzgerald Moreland and Tobias Hermann and Caroline (Nellie) Larsen Hermann; his father, Robert Hermann; his sister, Linda Krogmeier; his stepfather, Kent Kesler; and his father-in-law, Ted Calvin. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on October 3, 2026, from 1:00-3:00 PM at the Bart Howard Lounge in Burlington, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holden Cancer Center Research Fund or Southeast Iowa Regional Home Health and Hospice. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Robert Mark Hermann

Dennis Lynn Ramseyer, 76, of Burlington, died Friday, August 28, 2026, at his home. Born June 25, 1950, in Ottumwa, he was the son of Charles Samuel and Lois Kathryn Hecker Ramseyer. On January 8, 1988, he married Joyce Ann Brockert in Iowa City.&nbsp; He graduated from Davis County High School and later Kirksville College. Dennis was an avid woodworker and made beautiful pieces for his friends and family.&nbsp; He looked forward to the solitude of fishing and being able to relax and reflect in the solitude of nature.&nbsp; During the summer, Dennis looked forward to camping, watching the St. Louis Cardinals, and in the fall and winter, the Hawkeye football and basketball teams. Dennis loved his family tremendously. He cherished the time that he was able to spend with his wife Joyce, his children, and grandchildren.&nbsp; His passing leaves a deep sadness, but his memory will continue through all who love him. Survivors include his wife, Joyce Ramseyer of Burlington; two daughters, Paula West of Coralville and Amy Ramseyer of Mt. Pleasant; four grandchildren, Lydia, Fisher, Olivia, Callista; and brother, Larry Ramseyer of Altoona.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his son, Justin Ramseyer; parents; brother, Paul Ramseyer; one sister-in-law and one brother-in-law. There will be no visitation or services. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Dennis' obituary at&nbsp;www.prughfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1788150821292.jpeg" alt="Dennis Ramseyer" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Ramseyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Lynn Ramseyer, 76, of Burlington, died Friday, August 28, 2026, at his home. Born June 25, 1950, in Ottumwa, he was the son of Charles Samuel and Lois Kathryn Hecker Ramseyer. On January 8, 1988, he married Joyce Ann Brockert in Iowa City.&nbsp; He graduated from Davis County High School and later Kirksville College. Dennis was an avid woodworker and made beautiful pieces for his friends and family.&nbsp; He looked forward to the solitude of fishing and being able to relax and reflect in the solitude of nature.&nbsp; During the summer, Dennis looked forward to camping, watching the St. Louis Cardinals, and in the fall and winter, the Hawkeye football and basketball teams. Dennis loved his family tremendously. He cherished the time that he was able to spend with his wife Joyce, his children, and grandchildren.&nbsp; His passing leaves a deep sadness, but his memory will continue through all who love him. Survivors include his wife, Joyce Ramseyer of Burlington; two daughters, Paula West of Coralville and Amy Ramseyer of Mt. Pleasant; four grandchildren, Lydia, Fisher, Olivia, Callista; and brother, Larry Ramseyer of Altoona.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his son, Justin Ramseyer; parents; brother, Paul Ramseyer; one sister-in-law and one brother-in-law. There will be no visitation or services. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Dennis' obituary at&nbsp;www.prughfuneral.com.

Dennis Ramseyer

J. Glenn Miller, 78, of Burlington, died Monday, August 24, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals &amp; Clinics in Iowa City. Born June 30, 1948, in Fairfield, he was the son of William A. and Virginia Mary Musholt Miller. On May 25, 1974, he married Cynthia Collins in Burlington.&nbsp; He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. Following his service to his country, Glenn worked for JI Case Company from 1972 to 2004. Glenn was a proud member of Local #807 UAW and a longtime member of the River City Corvette Club. He enjoyed making concrete objects out of pre-fab molds, mowing yards, and riding his motorcycle. Glenn also enjoyed working on cars as well as buying and selling them. He owned a lot of different vehicles over the years. He also liked to grow his own sweet corn and had been selling it at the Produce Barn for about 35 years. Survivors include his wife, Cynthia Miller of Burlington; two sons, Andrew Miller and Brent (Courtney) Miller both of Cedar Rapids, IA; two grandkids, Owen and Madison Jo Miller; &nbsp;three grandkids of the heart, Chastity and Michael Thomas, and Caius Norvell; four brothers, Walter (Joan) Miller of Oquawka, IL, Dick (Dixie) Miller of Gilbert, AZ, Kent Miller of Topeka, KS, Jerry (Lori) Miller of New Braunfels, TX; five sisters, Barbara (Scott) Durbin of Burlington, Karen (Glenn E.) Miller of Burlington, Kathy (Mark) MacDonald of Schenectady, NY, Maureen (Jim) Friend of Burlington, Judy (Gordon) Ouderkirk of Sperry; and many nieces &amp; nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Scott Alan Miller, and brother, Greg Miller. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. The memorial service for Glenn will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street, with Reverend David J. Yonker officiating. Full military honors will be rendered by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the service. A memorial has been established for his grandchildren. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787980746439.jpeg" alt="J. Glenn Miller" />
 <figcaption>J. Glenn Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>J. Glenn Miller, 78, of Burlington, died Monday, August 24, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals &amp; Clinics in Iowa City. Born June 30, 1948, in Fairfield, he was the son of William A. and Virginia Mary Musholt Miller. On May 25, 1974, he married Cynthia Collins in Burlington.&nbsp; He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. Following his service to his country, Glenn worked for JI Case Company from 1972 to 2004. Glenn was a proud member of Local #807 UAW and a longtime member of the River City Corvette Club. He enjoyed making concrete objects out of pre-fab molds, mowing yards, and riding his motorcycle. Glenn also enjoyed working on cars as well as buying and selling them. He owned a lot of different vehicles over the years. He also liked to grow his own sweet corn and had been selling it at the Produce Barn for about 35 years. Survivors include his wife, Cynthia Miller of Burlington; two sons, Andrew Miller and Brent (Courtney) Miller both of Cedar Rapids, IA; two grandkids, Owen and Madison Jo Miller; &nbsp;three grandkids of the heart, Chastity and Michael Thomas, and Caius Norvell; four brothers, Walter (Joan) Miller of Oquawka, IL, Dick (Dixie) Miller of Gilbert, AZ, Kent Miller of Topeka, KS, Jerry (Lori) Miller of New Braunfels, TX; five sisters, Barbara (Scott) Durbin of Burlington, Karen (Glenn E.) Miller of Burlington, Kathy (Mark) MacDonald of Schenectady, NY, Maureen (Jim) Friend of Burlington, Judy (Gordon) Ouderkirk of Sperry; and many nieces &amp; nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Scott Alan Miller, and brother, Greg Miller. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. The memorial service for Glenn will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street, with Reverend David J. Yonker officiating. Full military honors will be rendered by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard. A time of food and fellowship will be held in the community room at Prugh Funeral Service following the service. A memorial has been established for his grandchildren. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

J. Glenn Miller

Norma Mae Byers Brandon, 97, of Springfield, Illinois, formerly of Dallas City, Ill, passed at 8:15 a.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at her home in Springfield, Ill, with her daughters at her side.&nbsp; Her son Jeff had just been able to spend three special weeks with her and helping care for her in July.&nbsp; Norma was born in Dallas City on October 31, 1928 on what was the Kenneth and Bernice Craig farm.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Hugh and Dulcie Byers.&nbsp; They later moved to Tina, MO, where Norma spent her early years and attended grade school.&nbsp; She returned to Dallas City where she attended high school. She married Richard Brandon on November 9, 1945, in Colusa, Ill.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on June 12, 2009. Before moving to Springfield in 2003, Norma lived most of her married life in the Dallas City area, with the exception of the years she was with Richard during his time in the Navy. Norma was a wonderful cook, beautiful seamstress, and crafter.&nbsp; She was an avid gardener.&nbsp; It’s the gardening that changed things.&nbsp; In 1957, Norma went to work at Sheaffer Pen Company in Fort Madison, IA in the Data Processing Department.&nbsp; Presumably, she was only going to work long enough to buy a freezer.&nbsp; This turned into a 30-plus-year career for Norma at Sheaffer’s. After retirement, Norma once again pursued the things she loved.&nbsp; She and Richard bought and restored the E. P. Cassidy farm, rebuilt and redecorated the house.&nbsp; She had her beautiful gardens and flower beds.&nbsp; She quilted and embroidered once again.&nbsp; Her handiwork was beautiful.&nbsp; Richard and Norma enjoyed wintering in Harlingen, TX, spending time with old friends and making many new ones.&nbsp; Besides playing cards, Bingo and other games, Norma pursued the craft of ceramics and made many beautiful dolls and other pieces that her family cherishes.

She is survived by three children, Marla Welch and Jane (David) Olson of Springfield and Jeff (Debbie) Brandon of Louisburg, KS; a daughter-in-law, Sandy Brandon of Dallas City; eight grandchildren, one step-granddaughter, 12 great-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, and one step-great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and one son, Michael Brandon; all her siblings; and one step-great-grandchild. The funeral service for Norma will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, with Pastor Mike Kilgallin officiating. Burial will follow at Thornber Cemetery, Powellton, Illinois.&nbsp; The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the funeral home.&nbsp; A memorial fund has been established for the Dallas City Food Pantry or Thornber Cemetery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787980341645.jpeg" alt="Norma Brandon" />
 <figcaption>Norma Brandon</figcaption>
 </figure>Norma Mae Byers Brandon, 97, of Springfield, Illinois, formerly of Dallas City, Ill, passed at 8:15 a.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at her home in Springfield, Ill, with her daughters at her side.&nbsp; Her son Jeff had just been able to spend three special weeks with her and helping care for her in July.&nbsp; Norma was born in Dallas City on October 31, 1928 on what was the Kenneth and Bernice Craig farm.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Hugh and Dulcie Byers.&nbsp; They later moved to Tina, MO, where Norma spent her early years and attended grade school.&nbsp; She returned to Dallas City where she attended high school. She married Richard Brandon on November 9, 1945, in Colusa, Ill.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on June 12, 2009. Before moving to Springfield in 2003, Norma lived most of her married life in the Dallas City area, with the exception of the years she was with Richard during his time in the Navy. Norma was a wonderful cook, beautiful seamstress, and crafter.&nbsp; She was an avid gardener.&nbsp; It’s the gardening that changed things.&nbsp; In 1957, Norma went to work at Sheaffer Pen Company in Fort Madison, IA in the Data Processing Department.&nbsp; Presumably, she was only going to work long enough to buy a freezer.&nbsp; This turned into a 30-plus-year career for Norma at Sheaffer’s. After retirement, Norma once again pursued the things she loved.&nbsp; She and Richard bought and restored the E. P. Cassidy farm, rebuilt and redecorated the house.&nbsp; She had her beautiful gardens and flower beds.&nbsp; She quilted and embroidered once again.&nbsp; Her handiwork was beautiful.&nbsp; Richard and Norma enjoyed wintering in Harlingen, TX, spending time with old friends and making many new ones.&nbsp; Besides playing cards, Bingo and other games, Norma pursued the craft of ceramics and made many beautiful dolls and other pieces that her family cherishes. She is survived by three children, Marla Welch and Jane (David) Olson of Springfield and Jeff (Debbie) Brandon of Louisburg, KS; a daughter-in-law, Sandy Brandon of Dallas City; eight grandchildren, one step-granddaughter, 12 great-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, and one step-great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and one son, Michael Brandon; all her siblings; and one step-great-grandchild. The funeral service for Norma will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Banks &amp; Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, with Pastor Mike Kilgallin officiating. Burial will follow at Thornber Cemetery, Powellton, Illinois.&nbsp; The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the funeral home.&nbsp; A memorial fund has been established for the Dallas City Food Pantry or Thornber Cemetery.

Norma Mae Byers Brandon

Elaine Mary Fischer, 89, of Burlington, died Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Bickford of Burlington. Born May 23, 1937, in Waterloo, IA, she was the daughter of John Paul and Margaret Tautges McKenzie. On December 31, 1960, she married Jon H. Gates, they later divorced. On January 30, 1993, she married Richard "Dick" Robert Fischer in Burlington, Iowa. He preceded her in death on October 14, 2019. She was a 1955 graduate of Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL. She received her Bachelors of Science degree from the University of Iowa in 1959.&nbsp; From 1973 until 1979, Elaine was a clinical instructor for the nursing program at Iowa Wesleyan College. She retired from Burlington Medical Center in 1999 where she had been an R.N. for over 19 years. She was a member of Divine Mercy Parish-SS. John and Paul Catholic Church where she had served as a Eucharistic Minister. Elaine was a member of PEO Chapter NI, Orchard City #1206 Quester Group, and Great River Friends where she served as President for several years. She devoted many hours as a volunteer in the hospital gift shop and was coordinator of the Comfort Hug Program. Her efforts resulted in a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mayor's Volunteer Recognition Program in 2018. She enjoyed playing bridge, sewing, quilting, as well as spending time with family and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. Survivors include two sons, Stephen Jon Gates and Michael Francis (Mary) Gates both of Burlington; two daughters, Theresa "Terri" Rae (Eric) McCrory of Wildwood, MO and Sandra Sue (Damon) Wick of Omaha, NE; step-son, Michael (Evelyn) Fischer of Huntsville, AL; eight grandchildren, Jacob, Jon, Joe, Judy, Alec, Lauren, Logan and Joshua; five great-grandchildren, Sammy, Jackson, Coe, Noah, Mason with one more on the way; and two nephews and one niece. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a sister in infancy, and brother, John McKenzie. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Nursing Honors will be performed by the Great River Nurses Honor Guard to conclude the visitation. The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mrs. Fischer will be 2:00 PM Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Fr. Jake Greiner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Divine Mercy Parish and Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787803332864.jpeg" alt="Elaine Fischer" />
 <figcaption>Elaine Fischer</figcaption>
 </figure>Elaine Mary Fischer, 89, of Burlington, died Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Bickford of Burlington. Born May 23, 1937, in Waterloo, IA, she was the daughter of John Paul and Margaret Tautges McKenzie. On December 31, 1960, she married Jon H. Gates, they later divorced. On January 30, 1993, she married Richard "Dick" Robert Fischer in Burlington, Iowa. He preceded her in death on October 14, 2019. She was a 1955 graduate of Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL. She received her Bachelors of Science degree from the University of Iowa in 1959.&nbsp; From 1973 until 1979, Elaine was a clinical instructor for the nursing program at Iowa Wesleyan College. She retired from Burlington Medical Center in 1999 where she had been an R.N. for over 19 years. She was a member of Divine Mercy Parish-SS. John and Paul Catholic Church where she had served as a Eucharistic Minister. Elaine was a member of PEO Chapter NI, Orchard City #1206 Quester Group, and Great River Friends where she served as President for several years. She devoted many hours as a volunteer in the hospital gift shop and was coordinator of the Comfort Hug Program. Her efforts resulted in a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mayor's Volunteer Recognition Program in 2018. She enjoyed playing bridge, sewing, quilting, as well as spending time with family and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. Survivors include two sons, Stephen Jon Gates and Michael Francis (Mary) Gates both of Burlington; two daughters, Theresa "Terri" Rae (Eric) McCrory of Wildwood, MO and Sandra Sue (Damon) Wick of Omaha, NE; step-son, Michael (Evelyn) Fischer of Huntsville, AL; eight grandchildren, Jacob, Jon, Joe, Judy, Alec, Lauren, Logan and Joshua; five great-grandchildren, Sammy, Jackson, Coe, Noah, Mason with one more on the way; and two nephews and one niece. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a sister in infancy, and brother, John McKenzie. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Nursing Honors will be performed by the Great River Nurses Honor Guard to conclude the visitation. The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mrs. Fischer will be 2:00 PM Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Fr. Jake Greiner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Divine Mercy Parish and Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Elaine Fischer

William Michael Fuhrer, 73, of Burlington, died Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born June 11, 1953, in Morganfield, KY, he was the son of Arnold William and Evelyn Marie Brockway Fuhrer. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1971 where he played basketball and baseball and was an All State baseball player in 1969 and 1971. After high school he went to pursue baseball at William Penn College for a year before returning home to marry his high school sweetheart, Patricia Suesens. They were happily married for 53 years. Bill worked for JI Case for 30 years, retiring in 2004. He was a member of the Burlington Sportsman Club and an avid waterfowl hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed spending time in nature and loved camping with his family and friends. Bill looked forward to golfing with his son and grandson, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. He enjoyed coaching baseball, sharing his love of the sport with young players and helping them learn both the sport and the value of teamwork. His motto for his son and grandkids was: "Don't ever lose, make your opponent beat you". He was admired by all the players he coached. Bowling was another favorite pastime, and he proudly bowled three 300 games and an 800+ series. Above all, he treasured his family and could often be found in the stands or on the sidelines, proudly watching his children and grandchildren participate in their many activities.&nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Patt Fuhrer of Burlington; sons, Michael Fuhrer of Burlington, and Brian (Jenn Dolan) Fuhrer of Mediapolis; daughter, Sarah Fuhrer of Burlington; two grandchildren, Cayson and Lyvia Fuhrer; brother, Kelvin (Ann Remick) Fuhrer of Burlington; three brothers-in-law, Rodney Pierson of Kingston, Mike (Kerry) Suesens of Panama City, FL, Steve (Karen) Suesens of Lenoir, NC and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Vicki Pierson, parents-in-law, John and Lolly Suesens, and brother-in-law, Bob Suesens A private family burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials have been established for the Midwest Magic Special Olympics Activities Fund and the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787803139446.jpeg" alt="William Fuhrer" />
 <figcaption>William Fuhrer</figcaption>
 </figure>William Michael Fuhrer, 73, of Burlington, died Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born June 11, 1953, in Morganfield, KY, he was the son of Arnold William and Evelyn Marie Brockway Fuhrer. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1971 where he played basketball and baseball and was an All State baseball player in 1969 and 1971. After high school he went to pursue baseball at William Penn College for a year before returning home to marry his high school sweetheart, Patricia Suesens. They were happily married for 53 years. Bill worked for JI Case for 30 years, retiring in 2004. He was a member of the Burlington Sportsman Club and an avid waterfowl hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed spending time in nature and loved camping with his family and friends. Bill looked forward to golfing with his son and grandson, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. He enjoyed coaching baseball, sharing his love of the sport with young players and helping them learn both the sport and the value of teamwork. His motto for his son and grandkids was: "Don't ever lose, make your opponent beat you". He was admired by all the players he coached. Bowling was another favorite pastime, and he proudly bowled three 300 games and an 800+ series. Above all, he treasured his family and could often be found in the stands or on the sidelines, proudly watching his children and grandchildren participate in their many activities.&nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Patt Fuhrer of Burlington; sons, Michael Fuhrer of Burlington, and Brian (Jenn Dolan) Fuhrer of Mediapolis; daughter, Sarah Fuhrer of Burlington; two grandchildren, Cayson and Lyvia Fuhrer; brother, Kelvin (Ann Remick) Fuhrer of Burlington; three brothers-in-law, Rodney Pierson of Kingston, Mike (Kerry) Suesens of Panama City, FL, Steve (Karen) Suesens of Lenoir, NC and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Vicki Pierson, parents-in-law, John and Lolly Suesens, and brother-in-law, Bob Suesens A private family burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery. Memorials have been established for the Midwest Magic Special Olympics Activities Fund and the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

William Fuhrer

Louise Muntz Rider, 95, a lifelong resident of Van Buren County, passed away on Sunday August 23, 2026 at the Montrose Health Center. Louise was born a twin to Frank and Zoe Swift Muntz on November 17, 1930, on the family farm near Flat Rock west of Farmington. She had fond memories of growing up with her older brothers and twin sister, Elouise. She attended White Oak Country School and graduated from Farmington High School in 1948. She worked at the Bonaparte Glove factory until her marriage to Thomas Rider on January 13, 1952. She raised seven children and devoted her life to her family and farming with her husband and son, Mike. She continued to keep the farm books until the age of 90, when she moved to assisted living in Fort Madison. She loved music, dancing, and traveling throughout the U.S. and England. She and Tom performed duets every year at the Farmington Jamboree. She was a 74-year member of St. Boniface Catholic Church and its Altar and Rosary Society. In later years she volunteered for the Farmington Food Pantry and enjoyed her friends at the Farmington Senior Center. She was sustained by her faith in God through many trials in life, particularly the 20 years following the passing of her husband, Tom, in 2006.&nbsp; She leaves 7 children to mourn her passing: Marilyn (Tom) Polito, Mike (Sherri) Rider, Janet (Tim) Jury, Linda Annegers, Lisa Moore, Jay (Pamela) Rider, LeAnn (Randy) Hildreth, 19 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her brothers Kenneth, Elwin “Bus”, Harold and Keith Muntz; sisters Josephine Muntz, Elsie Bowers and Elouise Syfert; sons-in-law Joe Annegers and Jim Moore; and great-grandson Isaac Vicker. Visitation will begin at noon on Thursday at the Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington with the family receiving friends from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. There will be a Parish Rosary recited at 6:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Farmington with Fr. Dan Dorau as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Greenglade Cemetery in Farmington. Memorials can be made to the St. Boniface Catholic Church Altar and Rosary Society or the Farmington Food Pantry. Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787608914666.jpeg" alt="Louise Muntz Rider" />
 <figcaption>Louise Muntz Rider</figcaption>
 </figure>Louise Muntz Rider, 95, a lifelong resident of Van Buren County, passed away on Sunday August 23, 2026 at the Montrose Health Center. Louise was born a twin to Frank and Zoe Swift Muntz on November 17, 1930, on the family farm near Flat Rock west of Farmington. She had fond memories of growing up with her older brothers and twin sister, Elouise. She attended White Oak Country School and graduated from Farmington High School in 1948. She worked at the Bonaparte Glove factory until her marriage to Thomas Rider on January 13, 1952. She raised seven children and devoted her life to her family and farming with her husband and son, Mike. She continued to keep the farm books until the age of 90, when she moved to assisted living in Fort Madison. She loved music, dancing, and traveling throughout the U.S. and England. She and Tom performed duets every year at the Farmington Jamboree. She was a 74-year member of St. Boniface Catholic Church and its Altar and Rosary Society. In later years she volunteered for the Farmington Food Pantry and enjoyed her friends at the Farmington Senior Center. She was sustained by her faith in God through many trials in life, particularly the 20 years following the passing of her husband, Tom, in 2006.&nbsp; She leaves 7 children to mourn her passing: Marilyn (Tom) Polito, Mike (Sherri) Rider, Janet (Tim) Jury, Linda Annegers, Lisa Moore, Jay (Pamela) Rider, LeAnn (Randy) Hildreth, 19 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her brothers Kenneth, Elwin “Bus”, Harold and Keith Muntz; sisters Josephine Muntz, Elsie Bowers and Elouise Syfert; sons-in-law Joe Annegers and Jim Moore; and great-grandson Isaac Vicker. Visitation will begin at noon on Thursday at the Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington with the family receiving friends from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. There will be a Parish Rosary recited at 6:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Farmington with Fr. Dan Dorau as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Greenglade Cemetery in Farmington. Memorials can be made to the St. Boniface Catholic Church Altar and Rosary Society or the Farmington Food Pantry. Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp;

Louise Muntz Rider

Sandra Jean Fleming, 88, formerly of 521 Ballard St., West Burlington, died at 1:28 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026.

She was born December 7, 1937, the only daughter of Charles Smith and Evelyn Delilah Sturms nee Dunnegan in Burlington, Iowa, where she remained her entire life.&nbsp; Evelyn later married Arthur W. “Doodle” Dunnegan.&nbsp; Sandy’s adoring stepfather, and they raised together, their beautiful daughter.

Sandy went on to graduate from Burlington High School in 1956 and married the first of three husbands, Richard S. Broker.&nbsp; From that marriage she had one child, Richard S. Broker II.&nbsp; They later divorced.&nbsp; She then was briefly married to George Smith of Burlington, Iowa, they had a son Timothy Allen Fleming, also of Burlington, Iowa.&nbsp; She then went in to marry Phillip Leroy Fleming of Burlington and settled down to raise their two children at 3124 Oakland Dells in Burlington.

Sandy worked her whole life in Burlington, primarily in factory.&nbsp; Among them Sylvania, IRC/TRW, Champion Products and retired after 16 years of service for Great River Medical Center in housekeeping.

She was a devout Christian and member of Sunnyside Baptist Church.&nbsp; She adored babies and all children and her greatest passion in life was cultivating her relationships with her many beloved family members and friends.

Her greatest pastime was sitting around the kitchen table with family and sharing stories of events in their lives.

Sandy is survived by one son Timothy Fleming of Burlington; two grandsons, Matthew Broker of Dallas, Texas and Logan Broker of Bowie, Texas; cousins Chris Bernhart of Burlington, Debbie Vierling of Kingston, Iowa and Rhonda Dunnegan of Muscatine; also several nieces and nephews whom she greatly loved b her marriage to Phillip, Tony and Tammy Bessine, James “Jim” Fleming and his sisters Michelle and Marnee and Tim Jenkins from El Cajon, California.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, one son Richard Broker and a host of most loved cousins, aunts and uncles.

Visitation for Sandy will be held tonight, Tuesday, August 25 at Lunning Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Graveside Funeral services for Sandy will take place at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 26 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.&nbsp; A procession will leave Lunning Chapel at 9:45 a.m. &nbsp;

Sandra Jean Fleming, 88, formerly of 521 Ballard St., West Burlington, died at 1:28 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026.She was born December 7, 1937, the only daughter of Charles Smith and Evelyn Delilah Sturms nee Dunnegan in Burlington, Iowa, where she remained her entire life.&nbsp; Evelyn later married Arthur W. “Doodle” Dunnegan.&nbsp; Sandy’s adoring stepfather, and they raised together, their beautiful daughter.Sandy went on to graduate from Burlington High School in 1956 and married the first of three husbands, Richard S. Broker.&nbsp; From that marriage she had one child, Richard S. Broker II.&nbsp; They later divorced.&nbsp; She then was briefly married to George Smith of Burlington, Iowa, they had a son Timothy Allen Fleming, also of Burlington, Iowa.&nbsp; She then went in to marry Phillip Leroy Fleming of Burlington and settled down to raise their two children at 3124 Oakland Dells in Burlington.Sandy worked her whole life in Burlington, primarily in factory.&nbsp; Among them Sylvania, IRC/TRW, Champion Products and retired after 16 years of service for Great River Medical Center in housekeeping.She was a devout Christian and member of Sunnyside Baptist Church.&nbsp; She adored babies and all children and her greatest passion in life was cultivating her relationships with her many beloved family members and friends.Her greatest pastime was sitting around the kitchen table with family and sharing stories of events in their lives.Sandy is survived by one son Timothy Fleming of Burlington; two grandsons, Matthew Broker of Dallas, Texas and Logan Broker of Bowie, Texas; cousins Chris Bernhart of Burlington, Debbie Vierling of Kingston, Iowa and Rhonda Dunnegan of Muscatine; also several nieces and nephews whom she greatly loved b her marriage to Phillip, Tony and Tammy Bessine, James “Jim” Fleming and his sisters Michelle and Marnee and Tim Jenkins from El Cajon, California.She was preceded in death by her mother and father, one son Richard Broker and a host of most loved cousins, aunts and uncles.Visitation for Sandy will be held tonight, Tuesday, August 25 at Lunning Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;Graveside Funeral services for Sandy will take place at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 26 at Aspen Grove Cemetery.&nbsp; A procession will leave Lunning Chapel at 9:45 a.m. &nbsp;

Sandra Jean Fleming

Pauline Vivian DeFosse, 95, of Burlington, died Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington. Born October 12, 1930, in Prairie Grove, Iowa, she was the daughter of Lawrence and Grace Dickey Finke. She graduated from Danville High School. On October 16, 1949, she married Carl Franklin DeFosse in Prairie Grove, IA.&nbsp; She ran an in-home daycare for many years when her children were young. She then worked for many years in food service for the Burlington School System. She was a long-time member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. She loved the Lord, and her church was very important to her. Pauline was an excellent seamstress. She was a wonderful cook and also enjoyed listening to music. Survivors include two daughters, Patty Chacey of Burlington and Paula (David) McPherson of Davenport; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Stephen DeFosse; two brothers, Willett and Clifford Finke; and one sister, Delores "Elaine" Hagemeier. A private family celebration of life for Pauline will be held. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Unity Lutheran Church. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787593022655.jpeg" alt="Pauline DeFosse" />
 <figcaption>Pauline DeFosse</figcaption>
 </figure>Pauline Vivian DeFosse, 95, of Burlington, died Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington. Born October 12, 1930, in Prairie Grove, Iowa, she was the daughter of Lawrence and Grace Dickey Finke. She graduated from Danville High School. On October 16, 1949, she married Carl Franklin DeFosse in Prairie Grove, IA.&nbsp; She ran an in-home daycare for many years when her children were young. She then worked for many years in food service for the Burlington School System. She was a long-time member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. She loved the Lord, and her church was very important to her. Pauline was an excellent seamstress. She was a wonderful cook and also enjoyed listening to music. Survivors include two daughters, Patty Chacey of Burlington and Paula (David) McPherson of Davenport; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Stephen DeFosse; two brothers, Willett and Clifford Finke; and one sister, Delores "Elaine" Hagemeier. A private family celebration of life for Pauline will be held. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Unity Lutheran Church. Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

Pauline DeFosse

Kenneth “Kenny” Waterhouse, 72, of Mount Pleasant, died Thursday, August 20, 2026, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Olson-Yoder Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2:00 -7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 27, at the Olson-Yoder Funeral Home, where the family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. A memorial fund has been established for his grandson Cinch’s education.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.olsonyoderfh.com/" target="_blank">www.olsonyoderfh.com</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787586795137.png" alt="Kenny Waterhouse" />
 <figcaption>Kenny Waterhouse</figcaption>
 </figure>Kenneth “Kenny” Waterhouse, 72, of Mount Pleasant, died Thursday, August 20, 2026, at his home.Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Olson-Yoder Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2:00 -7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 27, at the Olson-Yoder Funeral Home, where the family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. A memorial fund has been established for his grandson Cinch’s education.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.olsonyoderfh.com/" target="_blank">www.olsonyoderfh.com</a>&nbsp;

Kenneth "Kenny" Waterhouse

Rusty Ola Regee’ Washburn-Bangs, 49, of Burlington, died Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Born May 30, 1977, in Iowa City, Iowa, she was the daughter of Arlan and Becky Bangs.

She was a 1996 graduate of Burlington High School.

Rusty was a people person and spent her time and talents in professions that always led her to helping and serving people.&nbsp; She volunteered for many years for Toys for Tots, was an EMT,&nbsp; a hairdresser, a driver for the crime commission doing transports, operated a day care, served as a bartender at the VFW, and was a waitress.&nbsp;

She always had a smile and would lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it, even when she was fighting her illness.&nbsp; She was loving and caring and always wished the best for everyone.&nbsp; Rusty was larger than life, and even though she had the compassion for others, don’t get it twisted, she was always in control, would never take no for an answer and always, ALWAYS had to have the last word.

She is survived by her pride and joy, her son, Meloy Armstrong; her mother Becky Bangs; her sisters Roxy Jean Myers and Robbie Lee Escher; half-brother Dallas (Anita) Parker; nieces and nephews, Jarrett Escher, Jacey Escher, Shelbee Shields, Hailee Shields, Dalton Parker, Dakota Parker, Darrin Parker and Nevaeh Parker, along with four great nieces and nephews; her aunts, Bobby Link and Barby Kirby and her “baby daddy” Craig Armstrong.

She was preceded in death by her “poppie”, Arlan Bangs.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 27th at Lunning Chapel, where the family will receive friends.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787513805467.jpeg" alt="Rusty Washburn Bangs" />
 <figcaption>Rusty Washburn Bangs</figcaption>
 </figure>Rusty Ola Regee’ Washburn-Bangs, 49, of Burlington, died Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.Born May 30, 1977, in Iowa City, Iowa, she was the daughter of Arlan and Becky Bangs.She was a 1996 graduate of Burlington High School.Rusty was a people person and spent her time and talents in professions that always led her to helping and serving people.&nbsp; She volunteered for many years for Toys for Tots, was an EMT,&nbsp; a hairdresser, a driver for the crime commission doing transports, operated a day care, served as a bartender at the VFW, and was a waitress.&nbsp;She always had a smile and would lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it, even when she was fighting her illness.&nbsp; She was loving and caring and always wished the best for everyone.&nbsp; Rusty was larger than life, and even though she had the compassion for others, don’t get it twisted, she was always in control, would never take no for an answer and always, ALWAYS had to have the last word.She is survived by her pride and joy, her son, Meloy Armstrong; her mother Becky Bangs; her sisters Roxy Jean Myers and Robbie Lee Escher; half-brother Dallas (Anita) Parker; nieces and nephews, Jarrett Escher, Jacey Escher, Shelbee Shields, Hailee Shields, Dalton Parker, Dakota Parker, Darrin Parker and Nevaeh Parker, along with four great nieces and nephews; her aunts, Bobby Link and Barby Kirby and her “baby daddy” Craig Armstrong.She was preceded in death by her “poppie”, Arlan Bangs.Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 27th at Lunning Chapel, where the family will receive friends.Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com

Rusty Ola Regee’ Washburn-Bangs

Lola Yotter, 85, of Mediapolis, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at her home.&nbsp; Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Edwards Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials have been established for the Mediapolis Fire and Rescue in Lola’s name.&nbsp; The Snyder &amp; Hollenbaugh Funeral &amp; Cremation Services of Mediapolis is caring for the family.&nbsp; Online condolences for the family may be sent to www.sandhfuneralservice.com.&nbsp;

Lola E. Williams was born on October 7, 1940 in Oakville, the daughter of Wilber and Mary (Heath) Williams.&nbsp;She graduated from Oakville Schools in 1958.&nbsp; On January 28, 1962 she was united in marriage to John Yotter in Oakville.&nbsp; Lola worked at IRC in Burlington before staying home to take care of her family and the farm.&nbsp; In 1985 she became a Program Administrator for USDA ASCS, now known as Farm Services.&nbsp; She retired in March of 2007. Lola enjoyed crocheting, baking cakes, reading, Charles Wyckoff puzzles, traveling and cheating at Solitaire.&nbsp; Most of all she loved being with her family, especially the grandchildren. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Lola will be deeply missed by her son, Donald (Kristal) Yotter of Columbus Junction; grandchildren, Megan (Jay) Smith of Davenport, Kori (Alex) Buffington of Letts, Britney (David)Klein&nbsp;of Sugar Grove, Illinois, and Bailey Yotter (Maggie) of Knoxville, Grant Yotter, and Quinn Yotter of Columbus Junction; great-grandchildren, Hudson, Olive, and Finn Buffington; son David (Tammy) Yotter of Mediapolis; grandchildren, Alizabeth (Kolton) Malone of Winfield, Christian Yotter, and Rhianna Yotter of Mediapolis; great-grandchildren, Celia, Ottilie, and Theo Malone; sister’s-in-law, Marge Williams and Janet Williams and 11 nephews and nieces. 
 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; infant daughter, Johnetta; infant grandson, Matthew; brothers, Carroll Williams and James Williams;&nbsp; two nephews and one niece.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787332114712.jpeg" alt="Lola Yotter" />
 <figcaption>Lola Yotter</figcaption>
 </figure>Lola Yotter, 85, of Mediapolis, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at her home.&nbsp; Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Edwards Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials have been established for the Mediapolis Fire and Rescue in Lola’s name.&nbsp; The Snyder &amp; Hollenbaugh Funeral &amp; Cremation Services of Mediapolis is caring for the family.&nbsp; Online condolences for the family may be sent to www.sandhfuneralservice.com.&nbsp;Lola E. Williams was born on October 7, 1940 in Oakville, the daughter of Wilber and Mary (Heath) Williams.&nbsp;She graduated from Oakville Schools in 1958.&nbsp; On January 28, 1962 she was united in marriage to John Yotter in Oakville.&nbsp; Lola worked at IRC in Burlington before staying home to take care of her family and the farm.&nbsp; In 1985 she became a Program Administrator for USDA ASCS, now known as Farm Services.&nbsp; She retired in March of 2007. Lola enjoyed crocheting, baking cakes, reading, Charles Wyckoff puzzles, traveling and cheating at Solitaire.&nbsp; Most of all she loved being with her family, especially the grandchildren. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Lola will be deeply missed by her son, Donald (Kristal) Yotter of Columbus Junction; grandchildren, Megan (Jay) Smith of Davenport, Kori (Alex) Buffington of Letts, Britney (David)Klein&nbsp;of Sugar Grove, Illinois, and Bailey Yotter (Maggie) of Knoxville, Grant Yotter, and Quinn Yotter of Columbus Junction; great-grandchildren, Hudson, Olive, and Finn Buffington; son David (Tammy) Yotter of Mediapolis; grandchildren, Alizabeth (Kolton) Malone of Winfield, Christian Yotter, and Rhianna Yotter of Mediapolis; great-grandchildren, Celia, Ottilie, and Theo Malone; sister’s-in-law, Marge Williams and Janet Williams and 11 nephews and nieces. 
 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; infant daughter, Johnetta; infant grandson, Matthew; brothers, Carroll Williams and James Williams;&nbsp; two nephews and one niece.&nbsp;

Lola Yotter

Frederick Charles "Fred" Brown, 78, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington. Born February 15, 1948, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of Frederick George and Katherine Cocklin Brown. &nbsp;

He served in the Army during the Vietnam war.&nbsp; He married Paula Woodyard on May 2, 1970.&nbsp; They later divorced.

Fred worked for Champion for over 30 years until his retirement.&nbsp; He enjoyed playing Pogo video games, pool, darts, cards, being a social butterfly and loved hunting and fishing and being outdoors.

He is survived by his daughter Sherry Porterfield; one granddaughter and his longtime companion Joann Monroe.

He was preceded in death by his parent and sister Dorothy Goudie.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 26 at Lunning Chapel where the family will receive friends.&nbsp; The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard will conduct military rites at 1:00 p.m.

A memorial has been established for the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Frederick Charles "Fred" Brown, 78, of Burlington, died Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington. Born February 15, 1948, in Burlington, Iowa, he was the son of Frederick George and Katherine Cocklin Brown. &nbsp;He served in the Army during the Vietnam war.&nbsp; He married Paula Woodyard on May 2, 1970.&nbsp; They later divorced.Fred worked for Champion for over 30 years until his retirement.&nbsp; He enjoyed playing Pogo video games, pool, darts, cards, being a social butterfly and loved hunting and fishing and being outdoors.He is survived by his daughter Sherry Porterfield; one granddaughter and his longtime companion Joann Monroe.He was preceded in death by his parent and sister Dorothy Goudie.Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 26 at Lunning Chapel where the family will receive friends.&nbsp; The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard will conduct military rites at 1:00 p.m.A memorial has been established for the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Frederick Charles "Fred" Brown

Glenda N. Madden,&nbsp;83, of West Point, Iowa, died at 8:40 a.m. Monday, August 17, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison, Iowa.

She was born on August 24, 1942, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Eddie and Elizabeth Hackard Harker. On April 29, 1963 she married Donald G. Madden. He preceded her in death in December 29, 2001.

Survivors include her son: Jerry (Pam) Madden of West Point, Iowa; four grandchildren: Derek, Cassaundra, Ashley, Kierstan; sister: Virginia Malaney; one nephew and two nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Donald; son: Kenny L. Madden and brother: Elvin Harker.

Glenda was a graduate of Keokuk High School. She and Donald owned and operated the Western Bar in Fort Madison, then worked as a pharmacy tech at Rashid Drug. She enjoyed reading, playing cards and spending time with her grandchildren.

A celebration of Glenda's life will be held at a later date.

A Memorial has been established in her memory and can be mailed to the family at Schmitz Funeral Home P.O. Box 22, West Point, IA 52656.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2026/8/1787199689604.jpeg" alt="Glenda Madden" />
 <figcaption>Glenda Madden</figcaption>
 </figure>Glenda N. Madden,&nbsp;83, of West Point, Iowa, died at 8:40 a.m. Monday, August 17, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison, Iowa.She was born on August 24, 1942, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Eddie and Elizabeth Hackard Harker. On April 29, 1963 she married Donald G. Madden. He preceded her in death in December 29, 2001.Survivors include her son: Jerry (Pam) Madden of West Point, Iowa; four grandchildren: Derek, Cassaundra, Ashley, Kierstan; sister: Virginia Malaney; one nephew and two nieces.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Donald; son: Kenny L. Madden and brother: Elvin Harker.Glenda was a graduate of Keokuk High School. She and Donald owned and operated the Western Bar in Fort Madison, then worked as a pharmacy tech at Rashid Drug. She enjoyed reading, playing cards and spending time with her grandchildren.Her body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation.A celebration of Glenda's life will be held at a later date.A Memorial has been established in her memory and can be mailed to the family at Schmitz Funeral Home P.O. Box 22, West Point, IA 52656.Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements.&nbsp;

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