Jerome Francis Koppen, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Private burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, is entrusted with arrangements.

Jerome was born February 24, 1954, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Francis and Norma Jean (McNamer) Koppen. He attended the Omaha Art School, where he further developed the creativity that would remain a lifelong hallmark of his personality.

He was known for his creativity, positivity, and quiet determination, always pursuing the things that brought him joy. A longtime member of the International Frisbee Disc Association, Jerome was also a Master Gardener and an Ironman competitor. He worked in video production for more than 40 years and was a member of the Laborers’ International Union, Laborers’ Local #43. He spent many years working as a land surveyor and at the Packing Company, and proudly helped run the Dubuque Art & Craft Shows and Flea Market alongside his parents for over 60 years.

He is survived by his brother, Ronald; his niece, Paula Jean Hammel; his great-nephew, Derrick Janson; his great-niece, Brittany (Tony) Zammit and their children; and his step-son, Jayde.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barbara Jean; and his brother, Steven.

The family extends a special thank you to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the University of Iowa and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and exceptional care.