Paul D. Horkheimer, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at UnityPoint Health St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at the funeral home. Entombment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Born on July 11, 1946, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Paul was the son of Edwin J. and Irene E. (Broadhead) Horkheimer. More than anything, Paul was proud of the life he built alongside the love of his life, Judith K. (Kelly) Horkheimer. Together they shared 63 years of laughter, love, adventure, and unwavering devotion.

Paul retired from John Deere after 33 years as a Powerhouse Operator and was a proud member of UAW Local 94. Following his retirement from John Deere, Paul worked for his son as a Roto-Rooter Technician for 2 years. Paul worked hard, cared deeply, and carried a strong sense of pride in both his profession and his family.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Paul never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he loved. Whether he was watching westerns, tinkering under the hood of a car, casting a line from his boat, or searching the woods for mushrooms, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures. One of his favorite pastimes was hunting with his son during the colder months, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Paul loved trying to pull a fast one on people, but his familiar wink and mischievous grin usually gave him away before he could finish the joke. He had a special way of making people smile and reminding them not to take life too seriously.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Judy K. (Kelly) Horkheimer; his children, Dawn Horkheimer of Dubuque and Darryl (Brenda) Horkheimer of Dubuque; 12 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and his siblings, John (Carol) Horkheimer and Mary Wharton, both of Dubuque.

Paul was welcomed into eternal rest by his parents, Edwin and Irene Horkheimer; his daughter, Donna Thompson; his son-in-law, Terry Thompson; his treasured great-granddaughters, Sophia Marie Horkheimer and Ice Kay Horkheimer; and his sister, Janet Howell.

While his family will deeply miss hearing his stories, sharing his laughter, and catching that signature wink, they find comfort knowing that his love, wisdom, and unforgettable spirit will live on through generations.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Amanda Henrise, Keshia Stoffel, Kim Hendrick, and Kathy Graves of Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque. Their compassion, kindness, and support over the past several years brought comfort not only to Paul, but also to his family.