Gladys M. FitzPatrick, 90, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, at Grand Meadows in Asbury, IA.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael in Dubuque with Very Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Family and friends may gather for visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the mass at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

Gladys was born on February 27, 1935, in Hopkinton, IA, to Louis and Florene (Fitzgerald) Billmeyer. After high school, she continued her education, graduating from Bayless Business College in Dubuque. On June 2, 1956, she married Robert “Bob” C. FitzPatrick at the Cathedral of St. Raphael.

Gladys was a trailblazer in her own unassuming way. At a time when many women devoted themselves solely to homemaking, she balanced a full-time career while raising 11 children with grace and determination. Over the years, she contributed her talents to several Dubuque businesses, including The Dubuque Packing Company, before retiring from Loras College at the age of 72 after 18 years of dedicated service.

Family was the heart of Gladys’ life. She found immense joy in caring for those she loved. She also appreciated opportunities to travel, with her and Bob’s trip to Ireland standing out as a treasured memory.

Gladys leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, carried forward by her children: John (Kathy) FitzPatrick and Victoria Breitbach, both of Dubuque; Mary (Lenny) Droessler of Balltown, IA; Lorna (Michael) Duvinski of Dagsboro, DE; Kathy (Richard) Hoffmann of Peosta, IA; Frank FitzPatrick of Marion, IA; Bob (Laura) FitzPatrick, Mike (Angie) FitzPatrick, Tom (Megan) FitzPatrick, and Marty FitzPatrick, all of Dubuque. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Patricia (Russell) FitzPatrick of Dubuque; 24 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Bob; her son, Jim FitzPatrick; her son-in-law, David Breitbach; and two sisters, Mary Jean Stierman and Lucile Huber.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and the staff at Grand Meadows for their compassionate care of Gladys.

Gladys’ life was a testament to strength, love, and devotion. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.