Donald J. “Don” Daugherty, age 76, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on October 29, 2025, at Ennoble Manor while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Don’s life, a private burial will be held at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Don’s family.

Don was born on August 25, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Joseph and Leone (Derreberry) Daugherty.  He was a good and decent man who strived to keep life simply, enjoyed his daily routines, and always treasured the time he was able to spend with his family and friends.  Don was blessed to find and marry the love of his life, Kaylen Mathews, and the couple spent the last 50 years together facing each day as it arrived united in the common goal of making it the best day they could through life’s ups and downs.  Sadly, their daughter, Tracy Lyn was called home much too early in life and their hearts would unfortunately have to carry a deep wound that would never truly heal.

Don spent his working years with the Dubuque Pack, but never gave up on his desire to gain knowledge and wisdom wherever he could.  He went on to earn two degrees later in life and continued growing where his interests led him.  Don was generally a home body at heart and enjoyed catching his favorite tv shows when time allowed, and you can be sure that if his Denver Broncos were playing, he definitely made sure that time would allow.  Our hearts break at the mere thought of losing Don so suddenly.  His last couple years of health battles were a challenge for sure, but we leaned into the fact that he seemed to rally when the worse was over.  Sadly, this time, the Lord decided that it was time to rest from his earthly challenges and call him home to begin his eternal journey.  We pray for peace and comfort in our broken hearts as we face these most difficult days ahead and can now only wait patiently to see his smiling face once again.  Thank you, Don, for living a good life, reminding us to find joy and pleasure where we can, and to never surrender without putting in an honest fight first.  May the Lord bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms and may He help to heal our heavy hearts in time.

Those left to cherish the memory of Don include,

his loving wife of 50 years,
Kaylen Daugherty, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Bethaney Putchio, Ann Arbor, MI,
and Jakob Putchio, North Dakota;

his sister,
Diane Wagner, Ann Arbor, MI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter, Tracy Lyn Daughterty-Putchio.

Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Don’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com