Benjamin Oppelt, 64, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on October 4, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 3:00-7:00p.m., Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30a.m., Saturday, October 10, 2026, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

Ben was born on January 3, 1962, to Robert Casey and DiAnn (Pfeiffer) Oppelt in Dubuque, IA.

He was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Joelene (Beadle) Oppelt, on May 17, 1985. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three children.

Ben loved camping and vacationing with family and friends, always making memories along the way. It was always 5 o’clock somewhere. You could often find him at the beach or enjoying a Sunday Funday in Breckenridge, especially when it ended with a plate of Elk Meatloaf. A true Jimmy Buffett fan, Ben loved the island spirit and never missed an opportunity to share his favorite music with those around him.

When he wasn’t camping or traveling, Ben was happiest tinkering away on his latest project. He enjoyed UTV rides, keeping the grass perfectly cut, and spending time fishing with his nephew, Randy. He had a way of finding joy in the simple things and making every day a little more fun.

Ben was a loyal and dedicated engineer at John Deere Dubuque Works, where he truly loved what he did. He took great pride in his work and in doing things the right way.

He was fortunate to spend the final month of his life in his own little slice of paradise at Margaritaville in Panama City Beach, Florida, surrounded by sunshine, warm breezes, and good music. It was a fitting place for a man who knew how to enjoy life, make memories, and always find a reason to smile.

He is survived by his wife, Joelene; children, Benjamin Oppelt, Matthew (partner, Ashley) Oppelt, Amber (Eamon) Gaffney; grandchildren, Colm Gaffney, Pearse Gaffney, Parker Jordan, and two bonus grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, DiAnn; siblings, Dan (Diane) Oppelt, Jim (Karen) Oppelt and Roger (Julie) Oppelt. Also surviving are in-laws, Donna Beadle, Connie (Ed) Kelley, Steve Breitbach, Tom Bechen, Loras (Deb) Beadle, Rick (Lynn) Beadle, Kelly (Paul) Mayne, Julie (Kevin) Behning, John (Siva) Beadle. Ben is also survived by many nieces and nephews, especially Randy and Andy Genthe who he shared a special bond with. And many lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his biological father, Robert Casey; father, Carl Oppelt; mother and father in-law, Loras (Leta) Beadle; in-laws, Tom Beadle, Michelle “Mickie” Breitbach, Cathie Bechen, and Randy Mayne; and a nephew, Jonathan Behning.

Ben’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to the first responders with Key West Fire & EMT for their prompt response and care.

A Benjamin Oppelt Memorial Fund has been established.