John Dwane, 98 of Dubuque passed away on Febraury 14,2024. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony’s Church on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 10:00 am, with visitation starting at 9:30 at the church. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Born on July 17, 1925, in Bantry, County Cork, Ireland, the son of David and Jeannie (O’Connell) Dwane, John graduated from St. Patrick’s, Mungret, and Salesian Agricultural Colleges. He worked on a farm in Redgate, County Clare, before joining the Limerick Operatic Society. In 1950, John immigrated to Nova Scotia, Canada, moving through several cities and eventually to Delano, California, where he became an active member of the community, including the Knights of Columbus.

John’s journey took him to Wisconsin in 1957, where he founded the Dubuque Civic Theatre. He worked as a painter at Loras College and later at Xavier and Mercy Hospitals, retiring in 1992 but continuing to volunteer. His passion for acting led him to perform in plays and films, such as “Take This Job and Shove It” and in the documentary “Fire on the River.”

John leaves behind his children, Colleen, Phil, Andra (Getty), and Chris Dwane, and seven grandchildren.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Janet, and daughter, Kerri.  John’s legacy lives on through his family and the community he cherished.