Jack F. Hancock, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at home on August 26, 2026, surrounded by family with his rosary in his hands.

Visitation will be on Monday, August 31, 2026, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd with a prayer service to be held at 2:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Fr. Gary Mayer officiating and Msgr. Thomas Toale as homilist. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.  A livestream of the funeral mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

John F. “Jack” Hancock was born on September 11, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Freeman and Doris (Meehan) Hancock. Jack married Gayle M. Hamel on October 14, 1961, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Dubuque. In 1962, Jack and Gayle purchased Happy’s Place in Dubuque from Jack’s parents.

In 1963, Jack began a two-year assignment with the United States Army in Paris, where he proudly served as a Red Line Operator for the Signal Corps. While Jack was serving his country, Gayle remained at home, keeping Happy’s Place running. When Jack returned, the two continued operating Happy’s side by side for the next 26 years. Together, they poured countless hours, hard work, and heart into the business. From weddings and live music to celebrations, gatherings, and countless special occasions, Jack and Gayle made Happy’s more than just a business—they made it a place where people came together and memories were made. Their dedication helped shape Happy’s Place into the well-known Dubuque staple it became, creating a legacy that continues to be carried on today.

Jack lived an active life and enjoyed staying involved in sports and community activities. He played baseball, softball, golfed, bowled avidly, and could often be seen riding his bicycle. He was inducted into multiple halls of fame for bowling and softball, rolled a 300 game in bowling and got a hole-in-one while golfing; accomplishments many only dream of. He sponsored many local teams over the years. He was also known for standing on his head at nearly any occasion.

Jack and Gayle loved to travel and organized many trips and cruises over the years with friends and family, including two affectionately known as the “Save Your Marriage Trip and the Cruising Four”. Their willingness to help others was unmatched, and their strong faith and devotion to their community will long be remembered. For more than 20 years, Jack faithfully cared for Baby Land in Mount Olivet Cemetery. He generously volunteered his time to tend this special area, reflecting his quiet dedication to serving others.

Jack was devoted to his wife and his family, attending countless games and activities for their children and grandchildren. Jack was truly one of a kind, and his legacy will live on through the family and friends who loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Gayle; two children: John Hancock and Jennifer Duffy; four grandchildren Mara (Brendon) Campbell, Declan, Breen and Lohman Duffy. Three great grandchildren: Kenli, Niall, Lochlan and one to arrive in October. Brother-in-law John & Deanna Hamel; sister-in-law Margarite Robinson, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law William “Bill” Duffy; siblings: his twin sister Sr. Janice Hancock, PBVM, Bill (Jannan) Hancock, Blaine (Janaan) Hancock, Clavin (Margaret) Hancock, and James (Lois) Hancock and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers a Jack Hancock memorial fund will be established.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the health care professionals, Hospice of Dubuque, the Veterans Health Administration, and especially Bonnie for the compassionate care they provided to Jack.

To Jack and Gayle’s family and many friends thank you for the memories, good times, and loyalty shared over the years, especially during this past year. Each of you will always hold a special place in their hearts.