John E. Combs, 74, of Dubuque, died Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for John will be at 10:00 am on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6.

John was born November 22, 1950, in Blue Earth, MN, the son of J.C. and Irene (Steinbach) Combs. On June 19, 1976, he married Nettie I. Miller at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Dubuque.

John graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1970 and enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War Era.

He worked for John Deere in Davenport and Dubuque for 31 years.

John had a lifelong love of hunting, especially deer hunting. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed both playing and watching sports. He spent many hours golfing, playing softball, and bowling. John was proud to serve on the alumni board for his graduating class, helping to organize luncheons and events to keep his classmates connected. He was also a dedicated and active member of the VFW, where he gave his time and support to fellow veterans and his community.

Survivors include his wife, Nettie Combs; one son, Jason Combs of Dubuque; three sisters, Janet Grass, Jolene Petesch, Julie (Dennis) Guglielmotto; one brother, Greg Combs; siblings-in-law, Sally Miller, Jan Miller, and Charlie (Marie) Miller; brother by choice, Dennis Van Cleve, and the rest of the Van Cleve family; along with many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-father, William Brown; and three brothers-in-law, Curt Petesch, Art Miller Jr., and Bob Miller.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting John ‘s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.