Mary Marie Wharton, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away suddenly but peacefully on November 2, 2026, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.

No services will be held at this time. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.

Mary was born August 20, 1949, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, the daughter of Edwin and Irene (Broadhead) Horkheimer.

She graduated from Senior High School and is a lifelong resident of Dubuque. Mary babysat many children during her life, and she loved every single one as they gave her so much happiness. She also enjoyed spending time with family, boot scooting at the fairgrounds and going to bingo.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Brian) Kirton; grandchildren: Kailen Wharton, Drew Kirton, Brianna Kirton, Kalyssa, Chrissy, Josh, and Cheyann; great-granddaughters: Evelynne and Elizabeth Wharton; brother, John (Carol) Horkheimer; godson, Greg (Nancy) Howell; several nieces and nephews; and special friends Connie and Sherry (Bill) Bates.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, her son Jimmy Wharton, sister Janet Howell, brother Paul Horkheimer, and her fiancé Bob Bell.

She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. The family would like to thank the staff at Ennoble Nursing Home for their care and compassion given to Mary over the last seven years.