Nicholas (Nick) William Loeffelholz, 75, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on March 3rd, surrounded by his family.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at Culbie’s Event Center (90 Sinsinawa Avenue, East Dubuque, IL).  Families and friends are welcome to join prayers and share memories of Nick from 11 AM to Noon, with a meal to follow.  All are welcome to join in celebrating Nick until 5 PM.

Nick was born on December 20, 1950, and was a lifelong East Dubuquer.  Nick had a heart of gold and everyone who knew him loved him.  He had the privilege of marrying his sweetheart and the love of his life, Diane (Bertjens) Loeffelholz. Nick enjoyed spending time up north fishing and enjoying the outdoors at Apple Canyon Lake.  He took great pride in watching the grandkids play sports, and spending time with family and friends.

He was known to many simply as “Papa” a testament to the deep affection and respect he inspired in all who knew him.  He was always ready to lend a hand and always took time to talk to people. Nick loved watching sports especially the Cubs, Bears, Caitlin, and recently Illinois and Illinois State fan. You could often find him at one of the many East Dubuque Warriors sporting events over the years.  He would never turn down a game of cards and was a mastermind at nearly every card game. One of his fondest memories was taking his grandkids to Yellowstone on a road trip with his beautiful wife. This was the trip of a lifetime that the family will cherish forever.

Nick was a dedicated, hard worker, having spent 37 years at Georgia Pacific in Dubuque, IA. He also spent time at Mi-T-M and Runde Chevrolet.

He is survived by his children Nicole (Dale) Kluesner and Stacy (Jim) Oberman. Nick was also a proud grandfather to: Nicholas (Brooksey) Kluesner, Chloe Oberman, Parker Kluesner, Cross Oberman, Reed Kluesner, and Curin Oberman.

His brother Buck (Karen) Loeffelholz, sisters Jeanette Frederick (Dave Elliott), Joyce (Dave) Peterson. His in-laws Deb (Dan) Hoey, Cindy (Best Friend Ken) Aird, Brian Wedig, Steve (Laura) Bertjens. He cherished all his nieces and nephews and was loved by countless others whose lives he touched.

Nick was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law, Michelle Kaiser, Judy Loeffelholz and Lisa Wedig; parents, Joseph and Roseann Loeffelholz; and the love of his life and soulmate Diane Marlene (Bertjens) Loeffelholz.

Nick will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love he gave so freely and the light he brought to the lives around him.

A special thank you is extended to Dr. G Vandigo and Nurse Kristina H. of Hospice Dubuque for providing tender, love, and care to Nick and his family.

Online condolence for Nick’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com