John Donahue

John Donahue, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, September 19, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Click here to watch the live-stream: https://vimeo.com/event/5388155 Rev. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded.

John was born March 25, 1936 in Dubuque, the son of Thomas and Mary (Cahill) Donahue. He married Nancy Kretz on July 9, 1960, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dubuque. She preceded him in death on April 2, 2003.

John served his country with the U.S. Navy from 1954 – 1958. He had a long career as a postal carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Dubuque, and was very proud when he had been retired for longer than he had worked. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his McDonalds coffee club buddies. John spent 63 years in the same neighborhood, and prioritized using his jack-of-all trades skills for helping neighbors and family. He enjoyed camping, and was a horseshoe champion. John loved travelling with Nancy to visit family. He had a green thumb, and was an avid gardener. In his later years, he also enjoyed his date nights with his companion, Rachael.

John is survived by three children, Michael (Dana) Donahue, of Owatonna, MN, Daniel Donahue, of Queen Creek, AZ, and Kristine Donahue Probst, of Dubuque; his grandchildren, Chantal, Caitlin (Nick), Brittany, Jonathon, and Jackson; two great grandchildren, Jay and Brynn; his long-time companion, Rachael Hall, of Dubuque; his in-laws, Peter "P.J" (Becki) Kretz, Mary (Bob) Huber, and Sharon Kretz; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Shaun; his siblings, Joseph (Janelle) Donahue, David (Sandy) Donahue, Rita Mitchell, Rosey (George) Kahler, his twin sister, Joan Gatena Donahue; and his brother-in-law, Ed Kretz.

Memorials may be made to Catholic Charities.