Martin “Marty” J. Schadl, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on March 25, 2026.

A Celebration of Life honoring Marty will be held at a later date, allowing family and friends the opportunity to gather in a meaningful way to remember and reflect on the life he lived. The family looks forward to coming together to share stories, laughter, and cherished memories—just as Marty would have wanted. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized, and all who knew and loved him will be warmly welcomed to join in celebrating his life and the lasting impact he made. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Marty was born on December 10, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Leo and Kathleen (Giellis) Schadl. Marty was known by all who knew him as caring and compassionate, someone who could always be counted on. He had a quick wit and a dry sense of humor that brought smiles and laughter to any room, often lightening even the heaviest of days. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud “Papa,” roles he carried with deep pride and unwavering dedication. Marty always put his family first, showing his love not just in words, but in the countless ways he showed up every day—with support, strength, and a heart full of love.

Marty lived a life deeply rooted in family, hard work, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. In his younger years, he found great joy in camping with family and friends, where laughter was plentiful and his happiest moments were spent surrounded by those he loved most. Those early experiences set the tone for a life devoted to togetherness and making every moment count.

Marty had a deep love and passion for the river, a place where some of his most treasured memories were made. He was an avid boater and spent many summers on the Mississippi River alongside his brother Greg, his wife, children, and grandchildren. Marty deeply admired his younger brother Greg, and the bond they shared was built on respect, laughter, and a lifetime of memories together. Time on the river was more than a pastime—it was where family came together, stories were shared, and laughter carried across the water.

Marty took great pride in his houseboat, dedicating countless hours to renovating and perfecting it into a special gathering place for those he loved. It became a home away from home, filled with warmth, joy, and togetherness. Some of his most meaningful moments were the quiet ones, especially overnight stays on the boat with his grandson Owen—times he held close to his heart.

Marty shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife Lisa for 45 years, building a marriage rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Together, they raised two children and created a home filled with warmth, support, and countless cherished memories. Through every season of life, they stood side by side—celebrating the joys, facing the challenges, and finding happiness in the everyday moments.

He was incredibly proud of his two children, and the lives they built, and that pride only grew as he became a grandfather. His grandchildren were a constant source of joy for him, and he treasured every moment spent with them—watching them grow, cheering them on, and creating memories he held close to his heart. His love for his family was deep and unwavering, and being “Dad” and “Papa” was one of his greatest joys in life.

Marty treasured the quiet rhythm of early mornings spent biking and working out with his son Eric—time that meant far more than exercise. It was their time to talk, laugh, and simply enjoy each other’s company, building a bond that grew stronger with every mile and every shared sunrise.

He carried that same joy into the time he spent with his grandchildren, creating traditions they will never forget. Their weekly outings in his Mustang were something everyone looked forward to—top down, music playing, and laughter filling the air. Marty loved those drives, not just for the ride, but for the memories they created—simple, happy moments that meant everything to him and to those lucky enough to share them.

At home, Marty took immense pride in his yard, always making sure it was just right—a reflection of the care and dedication he put into everything he did. He had a deep love for his dogs, who were more than pets—they were part of the family. Some of his most cherished moments were the quiet ones, sitting on the deck with his wife, watching the animals wander by and soaking in the peace of nature. Those simple, still moments brought him true happiness.

Marty was also a devoted sports fan who rarely missed a game. He passionately followed the Chicago Bears, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Indiana Fever women’s basketball, always eager to cheer them on. Watching games wasn’t just about the sport—it was about being together. Whether celebrating a win or riding out a tough loss, he loved gathering with his wife and family, sharing in the excitement, the laughs, and the traditions that made those moments special.

Marty’s grandchildren were truly the center of his universe, bringing him endless pride, joy, and purpose. He cherished every moment he spent with them, whether it was attending their games, cheering them on from the sidelines, or simply being present in their everyday lives. There was nothing he loved more than watching them grow, learn, and succeed, always encouraging them with a smile, a joke, or words of support. Being their “Papa” was one of the roles he held closest to his heart.

A hardworking man through and through, Marty was rarely one to sit still. He was always busy tackling home improvement projects, finding satisfaction in building, fixing, and making things better for those he loved. His strong work ethic was matched only by his generosity—he was always willing to lend a helping hand, never thinking twice about showing up when someone needed him. Whether it was family, friends, or neighbors, Marty was someone people could count on, and he gave of himself freely and wholeheartedly.

Working alongside his brother Greg at Mr. Rooter Plumbing was one of Marty’s favorite chapters in life, where he found not only purpose in his work but also genuine friendship with the crew in the shop. It was more than just a job—it was a place filled with camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences. He truly enjoyed the daily rhythms of it all, from lunch outings with the guys to playing pickleball in the shop, moments that brought out his fun-loving spirit. Whether he was washing the vehicles, talking shop, or heading out on work trips, Marty valued the time spent together and the bonds that were built along the way.

He also shared a small painting business with his daughter Steph, something that brought him a great sense of pride. Working side by side with her meant more than just getting the job done—it was time spent together, building not only projects but lasting memories. Marty deeply cherished those moments, and the connection they shared through their work was something very special to him.

Marty’s siblings cherished the countless memories they shared growing up—memories filled with laughter, mischief, and the unbreakable bond that only family can bring. Those early years shaped a lifetime of love and connection, and they carried those moments with them always. He was deeply loved by his siblings, and the closeness they shared remained strong throughout their lives, a bond that time never diminished.

Marty will be deeply and painfully missed by all who knew and loved him. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his spirit lives on in the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family will continue to shine through in every life he touched, and in the hearts of those who will carry his memory forward each day.

He is lovingly survived by his son, Eric Schadl, and daughter, Stephanie Schadl; his brother, Greg Schadl; and his sisters, Patti (Tom Leicht) and Lynn (the late Jim Taylor). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Jaelyn Schadl, Hayden Schadl, Owen Schadl, and Norah Schad-McCarthy, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Joey Schlegel (Laura Beck) and Andy Schlegel; and his sister-in-law, Ann May (Greg May), along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory always.

Marty was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Kathleen (Gielles); his sister, Susan Schadl; and his brother-in-law, Jim Schlegel.