Carolyn Kay Gantz, 77, died Saturday, July 11, 2026. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Wednesday, July 15 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Thursday, July 16.  Committal services will be at Linwood Cemetery. The Livestream of the Funeral Mass can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Carolyn, born on October 3, 1948, to Gerald and Bonnie (Kuehl) Fitzgerald, lived a life defined by faith, service, and deep love for her family and community.

She graduated from Clarke College in Dubuque, Iowa in 1970 with a degree in Spanish. Carolyn began her professional career at Brown Publishing and Tele-Graphics before joining Vendors Unlimited, where she played a vital role in helping grow and sustain the family business.

Carolyn’s love for others was evident in her lifelong commitment to service. Through her dedication to 100+ Women Who Care, she helped expand the organization to well over 100 members and contributed to raising more than $663,000, of which 100% was donated directly to 75 local non-profits, leaving a lasting legacy of generosity and impact. She formed lifelong friendships and was a faithful source of prayer and encouragement through her involvement in Mothers’ Club, Mothers’ Prayers, and PEO. Carolyn was deeply devoted to her church, St. Joseph the Worker, and lived each day as a reflection of her unwavering faith in God.

She also gave generously of her time as a board member for the Girl Scouts, Clarke University, and Finley Hospital.

On June 20, 1970, Carolyn was united in marriage to John J. Gantz, Jr.  Together they shared 35 years of marriage until his passing in 2005. They were blessed with three daughters: Michelle (Brady), Christine (Andrew), and Stephanie (Christopher). On February 14, 2009, Carolyn married Jerry Ihm, with whom she continued to build a life grounded in love and faith.

Carolyn cherished her role as a grandmother and lovingly supported and prayed for her 15 grandchildren throughout their lives.

Along with her children and grandchildren, she is also survived by Jerry’s children and grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her kind heart, steadfast faith, and the countless lives she touched through her generosity, prayers, and compassion.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers please feel free to direct memorials to Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey or Hospice of Dubuque.

“I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes – I, and not another.” Job 19:25-27