Karl J. Fleege, 69, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, surrounded by his loving family. Though his passing was unexpected, it was peaceful, and he was deeply loved to the very end.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at noon. Inurnment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Karl was born on June 24, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence and Kathleen (Heller) Fleege. After graduating from Hazel Green High School and Southwest Tech, he began his career at Trausch Baking Company—later Bimbo Bakery—where he worked for almost 40 years until his retirement.

Karl was a quiet man with a generous heart who made everyone around him feel cared for. He was always willing to lend a hand, mow a neighbor’s lawn, or help out however he could. His faith was deeply important to him and guided the way he lived his life—with prayer, kindness, humility, and love.

He had a silly sense of humor that could make even a trip to the grocery store fun. He loved riding his motorcycle, listening to music, and building or fixing just about anything. But above all, Karl’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who played tirelessly with his grandsons—Liam, Ashton, and Landon—all of whom lit up the moment he walked into a room.

Karl is survived by his wife of 47 years, Karen Fleege; children, Karla (Tyler) Bell and Kyle (Carly) Fleege; grandchildren, Liam, and Ashton Fleege and Landon Bell; siblings: Shirley (Robert) Szafran; Mary (Cabler) Bergschneider; Jack (Rita) Fleege; Julie (Dan) Matuszak; Gary Fleege; Kim (Mike) Koopmann; and Krista (Rob) Horton.

He is also survived by his in-laws: Don (Renee) Cue, Jeff (Ginger) Cue, Tim Cue, Kevin (Dana) Cue, Bill (Sarah) Cue, Jim (Nancy) Bauch, and Gary Wild; along with many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. And special friends the Greg Lindenberg family and the Eric Scott family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Linda; his brother, Dan; and in-laws, Sharon Atkins, Kathy Wild, Steve Cue, David Cue and his great nephew, Silas Sturm.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, Karl’s family asks that you honor his memory by enjoying time with your loved ones—he cherished those moments.