Evan J. Beining, 37, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully of natural causes on Monday, July 22, 2025.

Evan was born on January 11, 1988, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of the late Judith (Rice) Beining and John Kean. He was a graduate of Hempstead High School.

Evan cherished his family and valued meaningful connections with those around him. Throughout his life, he formed many lasting relationships with friends and mentors, whom he considered to be a part of his family. Evan had an unwavering capacity to love, to forgive, and to be present for those he cared about. He was generous with his time, always willing to lend a hand, never expecting anything in return.

Evan always strived to show how much he cared by including others in things he enjoyed most. He was an excellent cook, often expressing his gratitude by preparing meals for his friends. Evan held a deep appreciation for music since early childhood. Sharing thoughtful song recommendations with friends brought Evan immeasurable happiness. He also enjoyed connecting with others as an avid online gamer.

Evan’s life reminds us that depth of impact is not measured in years or accomplishments alone, but in how we treat those around us—with kindness, with presence, and with love. Evan believed it was the simple things in life that mattered the most. He will be remembered most for his heart of gold. In Evan’s presence, one always felt that acceptance and kindness still mattered—and that love was enough.

Evan’s absence will be deeply felt by those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering love.

Evan will always be remembered by his sister, Robin Beining, and her husband, Jose Cueva-Lepe-Gomez, of Oconomowoc, WI; his nephews, Kaleb and Jameson; and his niece, Aliyana. He also leaves behind a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched, as well as the family of Mike and Joy Baker, who loved Evan deeply.

In honoring Evan’s memory, may we all be reminded that kindness costs nothing and that each of us has the ability to make a profound difference in the lives of others through simple acts of compassion. If you would like to honor Evan’s memory, his family encourages you to consider “paying it forward” through a simple act of kindness, volunteer work, or by making a donation directly to Hillcrest Family Services or another charity of your choice. Evan would have appreciated anything that makes a difference in the life of another.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who mentored and supported Evan throughout his journey, including Hillcrest Family Services, the Baker Family, close friends, and mentors Ashley, Angela, Rick, Dawn, Jill, and many others.

A private celebration of Evan’s life will be held at a later date. No public service is planned.