Marikka Helene Weitz, 80, passed away peacefully at her home on August 22, 2026.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45a.m., Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00a.m. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Marikka was born on May 6, 1946 in Wiesbaden, Germany. As part of an Air Force family, she moved to the United States at 6 years old. Her family relocated to a new city and base every few years. Marikka made friends and memories every place they lived.

On January 10, 1970, Marikka married the love of her life and best friend, Lawrence (Larry) Weitz in Orlando, FL. Shortly after, they moved to Dubuque, IA, where they rooted their lives and raised their family. It was important to Marikka to raise her family in one community where the family could have lifelong friends. They welcomed their twin sons, Mike and Steve, in 1971, and their son Greg in 1977, who passed away several days after his birth.

Marikka and Larry were lifelong partners in both love and business. In 1983 they founded Weitz Sign Company which they ran together until 2014. Marikka’s dedication to the family business continued part-time until her well-deserved retirement in 2023.

Marikka possessed a vibrant joy for life. She loved traveling, especially cruises, and loved a good glass of wine in the company of family and friends. Known for her infectious smile and warmth, she was incredibly friendly, and could effortlessly strike up a conversation with anyone.

Above all, Marikka loved her family. She treasured holiday gatherings, family dinners, and every single moment spent with her grandchildren. She was, quite simply, a good and kind person.

Marikka is survived by her devoted husband, Lawrence (Larry) Weitz; her sons Michael (Krista) Weitz, Stephan (Jennifer) Weitz; grandchildren Noah, John, Allyson (Chandler Newcomb), and Simon (fiancée Annabelle Costello), her brothers- and sisters-in-law, William “Butch” and Carol Miller, Dave and Marilyn Carew, and William and Becky Weitz; and many nieces and nephews.

Marikka was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Reid; her infant son, Gregory Weitz; granddaughter, Anna Weitz; her father- and mother-in-law, Paul and Marguerite Weitz; and her grandparents Willie and Helene Raub.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, with a special thank you to Robin, Amy, and Nicole for their compassionate care and guidance through this difficult time. They are truly angels sent by God. They also extend a special thank you to Dr. Jennifer Mohr and Dr. Whalen for their excellent care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Anna Weitz Childhood Cancer Foundation.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.