Terrance J. McElmeel

Terrance J. "Terry" McElmeel, 62, of Dubuque, Iowa, left peacefully for his new journey surrounded by all whom he loved the most on October 26, 2025.
Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Holy Family Church, New Melleray with a wake service to be held at 1:30 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Holy Family with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA., is assisting the family.
Terry was born on February 2, 1963, the son of Robert and Judith (Pierrie) McElmeel. Terry graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1981. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Tricia M. Cook, on April 29, 1994, at Nativity Catholic Church. A devoted family man, Terry and Tricia shared 31 wonderful married years together. He was a proud and loving father to his four children-Courtney, Kendra, Mitchell, and Madison. One of Terry's greatest joys in life was becoming a "Papa". His endless love for his six grandchildren will continue to live on through his family. Terry was blessed to belong to a large and close-knit family, something he deeply treasured. He often said how much he loved being part of a big-hearted family, and he carried that same love into his friendships-many of which became family over the years.
Terry was a hard worker providing for his family. He dedicated 39 years to Andersen/Eagle Window and Door where he formed many lifelong friendships. Terry worked on countless side projects using his hands and completing all their house improvements, making their house into their home. Although not always willingly engaging in all of Tricia's ideas, after the outcome he would always end up saying..."honey you were right".
Terry was loved by all who knew him. He was known for his quick wit and sense of humor, which could be a bit inappropriate at times, but always brought laughter to those around him. Anyone who knew Terry also knew he was one of the most dedicated fans of Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins. Terry was most happy spending time with family and friends "down at the camper" and cruising around on his customized Miami Dolphin golf cart signed by Dan Marino, while sharing beverages with family, friends, and camping neighbors. Terry was also always ready to take pontoon rides on the Mississippi River. If you were a frequent passenger, you could count on Terry requesting his favorite songs including ACDC, Down on Me by Jackyl and Slide It In by White Snake. Terry also enjoyed watching football games on T.V. with all the "boys" over the years and making it a goal to attend a Dolphin's game each year at a different stadium. His passion for the outdoors was evident with his hunting adventures with the boys, going fishing, and the pride in becoming a landowner of a small parcel. While convincing Tricia that they should buy it and name it 'TNT (Terry and Tricia) Acres' for their love of AC/DC, although over the years, it somehow changed to be known as "Man Land."
Some of their most treasured memories were made with their family and friends on their summer lake house trips, camping at different campgrounds, waterparks and zoo trips, and their vacation getaways near and far. Every vacation, every getaway, every adventure, and every shared laugh became a moment they'll forever hold close to their hearts.
Terry is survived by his loving wife, Tricia McElmeel; his children, Courtney Gilligan (Adam), Kendra McElmeel, Mitchell McElmeel, and Madison McElmeel; grandchildren Eliza Robledo, Paisley Van Horn, Carter Smith, Milo, Rowan, and Quinn Gilligan; siblings Jill Henkes (Perry), Scott, Tim, Jeff (Stacey), Jay McElmeel; his mother-in-law Alice Cook; brothers-in-law Tom (Jean), Troy (LeeAnn), Todd (Kathy), Tony (Tanya), Tim (Jodi), Travis (Diana), Terry (Holly) Cook; sisters-in-law Tanya (Steve) Kluesner and Tara (John) Lynch; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Judith McElmeel; father-in-law Dale Cook; sister-in-law Patsy McElmeel; and nephew Cooper Cook.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Engleman, Tammi Noonan ARNP, and the oncology team, Dr. Caceres, Dr. Li, MercyOne Medical Center nurses, and Cristina from In-Home Care Connection for their care and compassion; as well as the immense support and love from their family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund for 'No Stomach for Cancer' will be established.
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