Summer 2023 eNewsletter

Embrace the Gift of Time

It is summertime. Families and friends are gathering at reunions, picnics, and cook outs. As you enjoy some good times, good food, and good conversation with those you love, consider a discussion about healthcare wishes and goals. Early admission to hospice care can offer hope for patients and families, allowing them to feel as well as possible and embrace the gift of time.

Enhancing Comfort and Quality of Life

At the heart of our hospice philosophy lies a commitment to ensuring the utmost comfort and quality of life for patients. We work with patients and their loved ones to create a personalized plan of care that meets their unique needs and wishes. The earlier the hospice team is involved, the sooner pain and symptoms can be managed and emotional and spiritual support can be received.

Conversation Starter: “I’ve been reading about the benefits of early admission to hospice care, and it seems like hospice could provide support, comfort, and dignity for Mom/Dad. What do you think about exploring this option further?”

Peace of Mind for the Future

With hospice care in place, patients and families gain peace of mind knowing that professionals who specialize in end-of-life care will surround them with support, information, and specialized services. This proactive decision allows the focus to shift to being present—knowing that the best possible care is in place.

Conversation Starter: “Have you thought about the care you would like to receive when dealing with serious illness? Did you know hospice care focuses on ensuring comfort and making the most of life?”

More Time for Precious Moments

Early admission to hospice care allows patients and families to make the most of their time together, creating memories and cherishing precious moments. This provides an opportunity to focus on what matters most—spending quality time with loved ones.

Conversation Starter: “I’ve been thinking about how we can make the most of the time we have left with Aunt Jane. Early admission to hospice care could give us more opportunities to create memories. What are your thoughts?”

Here at Hospice of Dubuque, we understand that discussing hospice care can be overwhelming. We hope these gentle insights into the benefits of early admission will help with these discussions. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your loved one receives the care they deserve.

Anniversary Wisdom

Lavonne Noel, Executive Director

This year, Hospice of Dubuque celebrates 40 years of service to the community. Coincidentally, my husband and I will celebrate 40 years of marriage next year. In reflecting on these milestones, I have come to realize there are many similarities between an organization and a married couple celebrating a 40th anniversary.

Mission

In 1983, Hospice of Dubuque was established with the mission of providing compassionate care for the terminally ill and their loved ones. This mission statement summarizes Hospice of Dubuque’s purpose, conveying why the organization exists. Although some couples and families create a formal mission statement, my husband and I did not. However, we certainly discussed our life goals. We reflected on our reasons to be married and our hopes for our marriage, thus developing the mission for our life together. A mission represents the commitment that has been made, and it guides organizations and married couples toward success. Sprinkle your mission with your core values, and you will grow a beautiful entity.

Maturity

This one is simple. After 40 years you look back and realize that you start out young and end up older! Hopefully, there has been learning along the way. Organizations learn about those they serve, and married couples learn about each other. The goal is to figure out what works best in fulfilling your purpose.

Moving

Let’s face it, over 40 years, you move a few times. There is growth and change, and the need to adapt. This is true for organizations and marriages. Recognize you are on a journey, and see the best in the person or persons who are accompanying you. Move forward together.

Change

This is a constant over four decades. Understand and accept that, over time, there will be change. Commit to learning and growing, and support each other. Change is inevitable, growth is optional. Choose growth.

Memories

You will experience so much together. An organization will have archived documents, old newsletters, and photos on the walls. Annual reports will summarize the impact the organization had in the community from year to year. A couple will also accumulate items such as photos and keepsakes, but their most treasured memories will be carried within their hearts. Memories are the architecture of our identity.

When the dreams you’re dreaming come to you, When the work you put in is realized, Let yourself feel the pride, but Always stay humble and kind.

- Tim McGraw

Communication

Successful organizations and successful marriages are built and sustained on good communication. Both anticipate there will be wins and losses, with the victories and challenges shared. Forgiving the failures and learning from the disappointments leads to growth. It is so important to laugh and cry together, and work at understanding the persons with whom you are working or the person with whom you are sharing life. Each day, organizations should put those they serve first and married persons should put their spouse first. With respect and dignity, both should work to forge deeper communication. Our human connections enrich life.

Humility

In the end, Tim McGraw said it best, “Always stay humble and kind.” Organizations and individuals function best when they remain grounded and focused on the needs of others. Remember where you came from, stay focused on where you are going, and practice gratitude for all the blessings along the way.

Here’s to 40 wonderful years! 1983-2023

Have you had a special moment with Hospice of Dubuque that you’d like to share? Perhaps it’s a heartfelt memory of the care your family received, your first day as a volunteer, a cherished photograph from the early days of hospice, or a memorable fundraising event.

As we celebrate our anniversary, we invite you to contribute by sharing your experiences throughout these four decades.

To share your thoughts, visit our website or mail your story to 1670 JFK Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002.

Our daughter’s wedding dayAugust 10, 2019

Our wedding dayJune 9, 1984

Leadership Team

Lavonne Noel, Executive Director

Jackie Brehm, Financial Director

Renee Frith, Patient Care Director

Lisa Patterson, Psychosocial Director

Megan Schmitt, Nursing Services Director

Rose Guler-Ludowitz, Clinical Services Coordinator

Angela Nauman, Compliance Specialist

Medical Staff

Brian Sullivan, MD, Medical Director

Mark Hermann, MD, Hospice Physician

Kate Hermsen, MSN, ARNP

Sue Houselog, MSN, ARNP

Jessica Steger, MSN, ARNP

Tree of Life

The annual Tree of Life Memorial Service held on May 23 at Washington Park was a powerful gathering that provided solace and healing to all attendees. Families, friends, and supporters shared stories, memories, and moments of reflection. As the evening drew to a close, the Tree of Life display was illuminated, serving as a beacon of hope that united everyone in honoring their loved ones.

We would like to express our deep appreciation to Jim Luksetich, whose words about his journey of loss and love touched the hearts of attendees. Through his story, community members were reminded of the strength of reminiscing and beautiful legacies. We also extend gratitude to the talented musicians, Lexi Healey and Laura Seibert, who shared their gift of music throughout the evening. The melodies filled the air with a sense of peace and harmony.

Hospice of Dubuque extends heartfelt thanks to our generous donors. Your support ensures we can continue providing compassionate care to those nearing the end of life and their families. Through your contributions, we were able to raise over $40,000 to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

A special thank you to this year’s Tree of Life advertising sponsor, Behr’s Funeral Home.

To view the Tree of Life Memorial Service and memorial list, visit hospiceofdubuque.org.

Board of Directors

Joe Kane, President

Bonnie Hancock, Vice President

Charlotte Halverson, Secretary

Mike Sinkey, Treasurer

Greg Birkett

Stasia Brannon

Cindy Burdt

Sue Bushman, ARNP

Carole Carroll

Paul Carty

Vicki Dirksen

Msgr. Daniel Knepper

Rev. Jim Mehltretter

Allen Meurer, MD

Zac Scherrman

Lois Schueller

Bryson Winsky

Troy Wright

Jeremy Wulfekuhle

Foundation Board

Dick Cody

Bob Donovan

Mike FitzPatrick

Don Freymann

Dave Ludovissy

Bill Maiers

Bruce Rehmke

Mike Sinkey

Newsletter Editors

Cheryl Fuller

Tiffany Stietz

Community Education

Diane Fasselius

August 8, 2023

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Swiss Valley Nature Center, 13606 Swiss Valley Rd

Camp Kaleidoscope, a free camp for grieving children, is made possible by generous contributions from Hospice of Dubuque donors. Your involvement can make a lasting impact and transform a child’s life forever.

If you would like to support this meaningful program, select your giving level below. Return this page to Hospice of Dubuque using the donation envelope provided in this newsletter.

☐ $ 500 Camp Kaleidoscope summer program

☐ $ 400 Lunch for campers and volunteers

☐ $ 250 One-of-a-kind memorial service

☐ $ 200 Memory box station

☐ $ 150 Aromatherapy station

☐ $ 100 Journaling station

☐ $ 75 Nature immersion station

☐ $ 50 One-of-a kind day camp experience

Name/Business

Address

City/State/Zipcode

Phone

Email

Camp Kaleidoscope is a free camp for grieving children ages 6-14 who have recently lost a loved one. The camp focuses on the grieving process and encourages connections with others who have experienced similar losses. The camp is designed to normalize children’s feelings of loss, so they know they are not alone.

Hospice of Dubuque’s staff and volunteers will facilitate a variety of activities to encourage coping skills. There will be fun and learning throughout the day.

For more information, contact Mary Boots at 563.582.1220 or email bootsm@hospiceofdubuque.org

Honorariums and Memorials

We gratefully acknowledge these gifts received from April 1 through June 30. If a name is inaccurate or missing, please call Community Relations at 563.582.1220. If you are looking for a name from the Tree of Life Memorial List, please refer to the Tree of Life program on our website.

Honorariums

Mike Arlen

Hospice of Dubuque Staff

Carrie Hruska

George Sztajer

Jim Theisen

Memorials

Clem Ahmann

Mary Jane Ahmann

Delain Allen

Gerald Arensdorf

Norlan Arensdorf

Rita Arlen

Bernard “Kent” Bainbridge

William George “Woody” Bartels

Debbie Bautch

Lynn & Jody Beauchamp

Jane Becker

Patricia Behrens

Rudy Bellmann

Ivan “Ike” Berger

Monica Besler

Doris Bildstein

Robert “Bob” Boleyn

Charlene Bradley

John “Jack” Bradley

Peter Breitbach

Lucille Brimeyer

Robert Brimeyer

Gale Brown

Jerry “Holmes” Brown

Mike Budde

Bill Busch

Connie Busch

Jimmy Bush

Glen Callahan

Al Chidley

Murlene Clayberg

Jerome Clemen

Karen Clemens

Marvin Cocayne

Al Coulson

Lowell Creger

David B. Czarnecki

Grace & Lyle Daughetee

Bonnie De Sotel

Joan Dix-Connolly

Judy Donnelly

Patricia Dougherty

Joseph “Buddy” Doyle

Lois Drexler

Mary Ellen Duccini

Jerry Eberhardt

Odra Eberhardt

Sr. Bev Eichler

Betty Eldridge

Carol A. Ender

Daniel Engelken

Scott T. Ensign

Phyllis Errthum

Elmer Fink

Donna Flynn

Barbara French

Karen Funke

Norma Furry

Patricia “Pat” Furuseth

Joe Garrity

Betty Gartner

Shirley Gaul

Mary George

Clark Gerleman

Leona “Pete” Ginter

Rita Glasgow

Mary Glennon

Bonnie S. Gloeckner

Melvin Goffinet

Virginia “Ginny” Gordon

Arnold & Lois Green

Marie C. Green

Carl Greenwood

Daryl Griffith

Janet J. Grimm

Julia Gulyash

Larry E. Hager

Jean Hammel

Tom Hammel

Gary “Poncho” Hancock

Janaan Hancock

Lois Ann Hanson

George & Goldie Harmon

David Hartman

Mary “Fay” Hasken

Carl Haupert

Charlene M. Hawks

Loren Heber

William Heiderscheit

Fred Heidesch

Merlin Heitkamp

Constance Helling

Marjorie Hellman

Donald Hermsen

Marie Herrig

Richard Hess

Murlene Hinrichs-Clayberg

Thomas E. Hinz

Donald Hord

Marge Hrynkow

Arnold Oscar Johnson

Marilyn Kafer

Eunice Kall

Karen Kelchen

William A. “Bill” Kelly

Genevieve Kiefer

Mary Ann Kieffer

Don & Lois Kluesner

Vernon Kluesner

Hazel Knaebel

Robin Knight

Berniece Knippel

Paul Knipper

Carol Knobbe

Charles Koch

Jerome Koch

Ardith Kohn-Peterson

Lloyd Konrardy

Connie Krause

Jack Kreiman

Roger Krepfle

Marilyn Krill

Joseph L. Kutsch

John Lansing

Janet Lareau

Patricia Larkin

Kim Larson

John “Jack” Lawler

Kathy Leibold

David W. Leifker

Robert Lee & Mary Frances Lewis

Kenneth J. Link

Brenda Litka

Marilyn Lueck

Vincent J. “Benny” Martensen

Ron McAuliffe

Edward McCarthy

Phoebe McCrea

Diane Meehan

Monica Meissner

William Meissner

Marlene Melssen

Janet Menadue

Celestine Meyer

Mary C. Meyer

Kaye Miller

Alice Moriarty

Eugene “Butch” Morton

Barry Murphy

Thomas Naber

James Nadermann

Dan Nelli

Christopher Neuhaus

Dean Neuhaus

Ralph Nilles

Joan Nurre

Ralph A. Nurre

Delbert Olberding

David Oldenburg

Del Rose Ostwinkle

Ernest Ostwinkle

Juanita Ostwinkle

Ronald Ostwinkle

Sandy Ostwinkle

Arleen Ouderkirk

Sarah Pemsl

Carol A. Pfeiler

Gerald Pickel

Elizabeth “Betty” Pins

Henry T. Pliner

William Rediger

Wayne Reicher

Earl Rettenmeier

Lois G. Reuter

Connie J. Reynolds

Loren Rice

Thelma Roberts

Robert Robinson

Diane Rondeau

JoAnn Ryan

David Schleicher

Ann M. Schmitz

Tom Scholl

Jim & Bonnie Schreiner

Dorothy & Ernest Schumacher

LaVern Sindt

Kathryn “Kay” Sloan

Donald “Wayne” Small

Jeffrey Smith

Bob Smrcina

Sue Soppe

Jim Spiegel

Charles “Charlie” Spielman

Mary Spielman

Maribeth Stair

Clem Steele

Helen Carew Steele

Robert Steffen

Paul Stemper

Esther M. Stierman

Isabelle Stillmunkes

Harriet Sullivan

Jim Sysko

James “Jim” Tegeler

Deb Temperley

Doris Trader

Bert Tranel

Ruth Trausch

Norbert Tressel

Linda Troester

Germaine Ungs

Velma Van Ostrand

Al & Elaine VanVleck

Patricia Vaske

Leslie Wagner

Rev. Dr. C. Howard Wallace

Mike Walsh

Donald Wand

Lawrence “Larry” Weber

Anna Mae Welter

David Wertz

David Westphal

Jim White

Merlin White

Robert Wilhelm

Scott M. Wilson

Elise Wischmeyer

Christopher Woolf

Randall Wulfekuhle

Bernard “Ben” Yanko

Hospice of Dubuque is committed to respecting your privacy. You have received the Hospice of Dubuque newsletter because you or a family member have used Hospice of Dubuque services, donated, or volunteered for a fundraiser. We never disclose our mailing list. To have your name removed or to receive the newsletter by email, please contact us at 563.582.1220 or cr@hospiceofdubuque.org.

Businesses, Groups, and Matching Gifts

Michael & Mary Pat Ament

Andersen Corp.

A.Y. McDonald

Charitable Foundation

Balltown Safari Club

Barry & Kathy Bromberg

Endowment Fund

Center Grove United Methodist Church

Cody Family Fund

Danaher

Dubuque Evening

Lions Club

Honkamp, P.C.

Hy-Vee Reusable

Bag Program

Iowa Fields of Opportunities

Kiefer Family

Endowment Fund

Luther Manor Communities

Mario’s Restaurant

Martin Charitable Fund

Michael & Judy McCoy

Family Endowed Donor

Advised Dund

Jim & Jane Meyer

Charitable Gift Foundation

Nice & Noble Hallmark

Collector’s Club

Constance Norby

Endowment Fund

Philip & Thelma Schlueter

Family Endowment Fund

St Mary Church

St Matthew Lutheran Church

Turpin Dodge Chrysler

Jeep Ram of Dubuque

Bob & Donna Wahlert

Donor Advised Fund

Joseph & Teri Zuccaro

Endowed Donor

Advised Fund

Great Give Day

In Kind and Loan Closet

Jessica Bushman

Shari Flatt

Sue and Lisa Frank

Girl Scouts of Eastern

Iowa & Western Illinois

Lange Sign Group, Inc.

Kathy Slatter

Julie Symons

Janet Walker

Thank you for supporting your nonprofit hospice during Great Give Day, organized by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque on May 17. Your donations help offer bereavement support and educational resources to those coping with loss. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of tri-state residents.

Flower Giveaway

In celebration of 40 years, Hospice of Dubuque hosted a Flower Giveaway on Saturday, May 20. The event served as a gesture of gratitude to the community, making it a special occasion for reflection and connection. Attendees were able to choose from a variety of flowers to commemorate their loved ones.

A special thank you to Theisen’s Home, Farm & Auto and Dan & Jerry’s Greenhouses for providing the beautiful flowers. Their contribution made our event truly special and unforgettable. We are grateful for their support and partnership.

Special thanks to ...

• Honkamp, P.C. for a $655 donation from their Dress for Your Day for Charity.

• Luther Manor Communities, for a $2,514 donation from their combined rummage sale and bake sale.

The Hospice of Dubuque Foundation Board of Directors bid farewell to Rita Helle in April. Rita joined the Foundation Board in August 2005. We thank Rita for nearly 18 years of continuous service as a volunteer board member, and we wish her well!

Bonnie Hancock, former Hospice of Dubuque nurse, Kristin Schroeder, current Hospice of Dubuque nurse, and Pat Pierce, Hospice of Dubuque volunteer hold a 20-year-old newspaper article about the hospice care Millie Feldmann received.

A Story of Compassion and Connection

Three individuals share their journey of caregiving and loss. From a grandmother’s impact, to the legacy of a compassionate organization, these stories reveal connections throughout life. Read their reflections below.

In 1999, my family had our first hospice experience. My grandmother was Millie Feldmann. She was diagnosed with a rare form of Parkinson’s disease that led to a rapid decline. She desired to remain at her home, among her community in Epworth. Her hospice team became like family to us. We remember how they taught us to provide care for her, helped coordinate a surprise birthday party, and supported us on the night she died. To this day, our family remembers Grandma Millie’s hospice journey. Since that time, other family members have been in the program. We continue to feel the familiar support we did back then, which eases the burden on our minds and hearts.

In 2016, I began working at Hospice of Dubuque. I did not realize I would be joining the original team my grandma loved all those years ago. Knowing the difference they made to our family, I am honored to provide the same care to other families.

- Kristin

It’s difficult to believe Hospice of Dubuque has lovingly been serving the people of the tri-state area for 40 years. I have been associated with Hospice of Dubuque for 32 of those years, and in that time, I’ve been a volunteer to many patients. One of those patients was Millie—a hard-working woman, who raised a large family and was appreciative of whatever we did for her. Millie was just one of many persons Hospice of Dubuque has served and will continue to serve in the future.

- Pat

When a memory of Millie comes to mind, two thoughts follow— patience in suffering and never forgotten. Despite the ravages of a disease that left Millie unable to smile, her eyes would welcome me with every home visit. I was grateful for the opportunity to care for her for many months. With the complexity of her disease, Millie taught me many lessons. Over a 20-year Hospice of Dubuque career, I relied on the things I learned from this gracious woman to care for others.

- Bonnie

Moments that Matter

Our Community Education Specialist, Diane Fasselius, recently released a book, “Moments That Matter.” In her book, Diane delves into the profound experiences and lessons learned while accompanying individuals through the challenging process of healthcare decisions.

“Moments That Matter” is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to embrace the fullness of life, particularly when faced with the task of caring for a loved one nearing the end of life. This book explores the emotional and practical dimensions of providing care to individuals—emphasizing the values of empathy, compassion, and dignity.

One of the key focuses of “Moments That Matter” is the importance of making informed choices about end-of-life care. Diane emphasizes the significance of ensuring the patient’s wishes are known and respected, guiding readers through the process of understanding and honoring these desires. Readers are reminded, that even in this final phase of life, profound moments of connection and meaning can be found.

Encompassing a wide range of topics, including healthcare, spirituality, loss, and grieving, “Moments That Matter” appeals to a broad audience seeking a deeper understanding of life’s journey and the significance of hospice care. Diane’s expertise and compassionate insights are a guiding light for those who wish to approach end-of-life experiences with grace and purpose.

Sympathy to ...

Hospice of Dubuque Staff

Book available for purchase on Amazon, BAM, Barnes & Noble, and River Lights Bookstore

• Kathy Bromberg, on the death of her father, Bernard Yanko, April 15.

• Peg Nauman, on the death of her son-in-law, Jeffrey Smith, April 21.

Hospice of Dubuque Board Member

• Sue Bushman, on the death of her son, Alex Bushman, June 27.

Hospice of Dubuque Volunteer

• Barbara French, who died April 13. Barb served as a volunteer speech therapist for Hospice of Dubuque for many years.

Congratulations to ...

Hospice of Dubuque Staff

• Sara Licht, RN, who completed her BSN in May, graduating from Western Govenor’s University.

• Lisa Patterson on the birth of her granddaughter, Brynlee Rae, born to parents Bryant Patterson and Brianna Zweibohmer, April 27.

• Traci Kieler on the birth of her grandson, Preston John Kieler, January 4.

• Carrie Hruska, on her marriage to Chad, May 27.

Hospice of Dubuque Board Member:

• Bryson Winsky and his wife, Amy, on the birth of their daughter, April 25.

40-Year Legacy

This year marks a milestone for Hospice of Dubuque as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and recognition of the incredible journey we have embarked on together. Throughout the years, the success and impact of Hospice of Dubuque has been deeply rooted in the dedication and passion of volunteers. In the spirit of commemorating this occasion, we invited some of our original volunteers to share their personal experiences and cherished memories with our organization.

At a conference I attended in 1981, I chose a workshop entitled “The Hospice Movement.” The presenter was Betty Takes, a Dubuque nurse. She explained the hospice way of caring for the terminally ill. Within a few minutes of listening, I was interested and gave my name and phone number to her. How grateful I am that I made that choice. I have had the opportunity to be with so many wonderful families at this sad time in their lives. Hospice has given meaning to my life and kept me from becoming self-centered and judgmental. It has taught me to be a good listener. It keeps me grounded and humble. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to be a hospice volunteer for 40 years.

- Bev Rech

I can’t believe it has been 40 years since I saw a notice in the paper about a meeting being scheduled for those interested in starting a hospice in Dubuque. I had been with my grandfather when he died, so this stirred my interest. Hospice was a new concept at that time. I had read Elizabeth Kubler-Ross’s book “On Death and Dying” and related to her philosophy. Once I went to the first meeting and met so many wonderful inspiring people, I knew I wanted to become a volunteer. Things were very different in the beginning, but the sharing and caring has never changed. Through the years I have met so very many wonderful people. Whenever I mention that I am a hospice volunteer I am uplifted by the glowing reaction people have for Hospice of Dubuque. It has touched so many lives. It certainly has left a heartening imprint on my life and has been my privilege to be a part of it.

- Karlyn Van Gelder

In the mid-1970s, I learned about the first U.S. hospice in New Haven, CT. In working as an ICU nurse, I saw seriously-ill patients and their families not interacting with them. I thought—there has to be a better way. I encouraged the family to talk to and touch their loved one. I sensed their discomfort and their wish that they could all be at home.

Education was a big part of the early years. I talked to anyone and everyone to explain hospice so people knew what it was and why it was so important to have it in the Dubuque area. We were all volunteers in the beginning.

Hospice of Dubuque has been an important part of my life. It widened my horizons—meeting people from all walks of life, learning about them, and being with them. It has been a privilege and was truly a labor of love.

I initiated the Hospice of Dubuque program to change healthcare at the end of life. Being involved with this organization has been a gift. I hoped and prayed hospice would last here in Dubuque and I’m grateful for these 40 years.

- Betty Takes

Volunteer Luncheon

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend our volunteer luncheon on April 21. Your presence made the event special, and we are grateful for your dedication and support. The luncheon provided a wonderful opportunity for us to come together, share stories, and celebrate the incredible impact we have made in the tri-state community.

Betty Takes, Bev Rech, and Judy McDermott, who have been active Hospice of Dubuque volunteers for 40 years.