Joseph “Joe” Arnold Accola, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on December 19, 2025, surrounded by his soulmate, Julie, and other loved ones.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque. A Time of Remembrance Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Joseph was born on August 7, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Arnold J. and Muriel M. (Erschen) Accola. Joe worked for several years at Star Brewery before beginning a long career in the casino industry throughout the Tri-State area. He spent 25 years with Diamond Jo Casino before retiring in 2023.

Joe enjoyed not only his time as a blackjack dealer, but also long walks with Julie at the Mines of Spain and other local parks. The two loved to travel, dine out, and spend many evenings playing cards and always keeping track of who won the most games. Joe also deeply loved his cats, Buffie and Abbie, who happily returned all the attention he gave them.

Those left to cherish Joe’s memory include his soulmate, Julie; his stepchildren, Joshua Billmeyer of Dubuque, Vania (Scott) Riedl of Galena, Judd (Ashley) Billmeyer of Farley, and Alisia (Jimmy) Peacock of Dubuque; eight step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; his sister, Joyce Thompson of California; his niece, Jennifer Schmid; and his nephew, Nicholas Schmid. He will also be fondly remembered by many friends, family members, and coworkers.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Muriel Accola; his sisters, Rosemary and Kim; his brother, Bruce; his nephew, Jeffrey Schmid; and his stepson, Luke Billmeyer.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque. A special thank you is also given to longtime family friend Lyle Hennings for being a devoted and caring friend to Joe.