Janann (Nan) Dietz Higgins, our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Monday, January 20th, 2025, in Dubuque, IA.

Born on November 5th, 1936, to Alfred and Helen (Nellie) Dietz, Nan lived a vibrant and fulfilling life. She graced this world with her presence for 88 years, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, and adventure.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM. on Friday, January 24th, at Resurrection Catholic Church in Dubuque, where all who loved her can gather to honor her remarkable life. Visitation will be held prior at the church from 9:00-10:45 AM.

Nan was raised on the family farm in Asbury, Iowa, where she learned to drive a tractor and developed her master gardening skills, growing beautiful flower gardens at all her homes and the homes of her grandchildren.

Nan was educated at Lore Mound, a one-room schoolhouse, then graduated from St. Columbkille High School in 1954.

She had a strong faith and was a member of Resurrection Church for over 60 years.

Nan married Charles R. (Chuck) Higgins on July 30, 1955, at St. Philomena’s Church in Asbury. Together, the dynamic duo lived a partnership rooted in love, commitment, and unwavering support. They welcomed three daughters – Deb, Diann, and Darla.

In addition to her dedication to family, Nan’s life was enhanced by remarkable achievements and community involvement. Nan and Chuck undertook an amazing 47-day, 3,400-mile TransAmerica Bicycle Trek from Seattle, Washington, to Atlantic City, New Jersey, in 1988. They also embraced their passion for biking through annual participation on RAGBRAI, often organizing the entire neighborhood to join the event. They rode their bikes throughout the Midwest for many years with the GBC group and were instrumental in the development of the Heritage Trail.

Nan developed the original Ski Wee program at Sundown and was also a ski instructor with the Sundown Ski School, where she and Chuck taught all of their grandchildren and hundreds of other kids to ski.

A passionate runner, Nan completed 26 marathons, including the prestigious Boston Marathon. She was an active participant in the MVRA, frequently coming in first place because she was the only one in the age category.

A game enthusiast, Nan enjoyed playing euchre, bridge, and cribbage, often hosting family and friends for evenings filled with laughter and competition.

Nan held employment positions with the U.S. Postal Service and Dupaco Community Credit Union, where she served as the Prime Time Club Coordinator and shared her joy of traveling with others. Her signature afghans crocheted on every trip were enjoyed by many. Nan built a Shaklee business in the Dubuque area, sharing her lifestyle of health and wellness.

Nan was known for her inclusivity and welcoming personality. She received the YWCA Women of Achievement Award for her contributions to sports and her promotion of the Heritage Trail. She was presented the State of Iowa Governor’s Volunteer Award for outstanding service to the state by Gov. Branstad in 1996.

In retirement, Nan and Chuck resided in Palm Bay, Florida, where they welcomed family and friends and developed many treasured friendships.

Nan is survived by her husband, Chuck Higgins; her daughters, Deb (Jim) Mueller and Diann (Bob) Hanson; her grandchildren, Abby (Scott) Klein, Holly (Patrick) Burkhartzmeyer, Ryan (Cynthia) Hanson, and Hillary (Stefen) Loes; and her great-grandchildren, Addison, Ava, Aubrey, Maxwell, Zachary, Connor, Baby B, Nellie, and Grant. She is also survived by her sister, Karen Schaufler; and numerous beloved relatives, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Darla Higgins; parents, Alfred and Helen Dietz; and her sisters Helen Gorshe, Marlene Schrobilgen, Shirley Massey, Ady Klein-Taggart, and Moya Breitbach.

Nan will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for her radiant spirit, her love of life, her vibrance, and her ability to see beauty in the world. Her thoughtfulness and kindness touched the hearts of many, and her legacy will live on in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. We will see her in every colorful flower, beautiful sunrise, and laughter during a card game.

Thank you to the staff of Stonehill Care Center for their wonderful care of Nan.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in honor of Nan at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

“It was a good ride.”