Paul J. Ernst, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on September 17, 2026, at Stonehill Health Center.

Paul was born on July 29, 1948, in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Richard and Dorothy (Heiar) Ernst. He was united in marriage to Sandi Haxmeier in Bellevue, Iowa. Paul worked as an Engineer at John Deere Dubuque Works.

Paul was of Catholic faith. He enjoyed spending time with his family and woodworking. He was especially proud of his kids, their spouses, and his grandkids.

Survivors include his wife, Sandi; children, Dawn (Guy II) Pratt and Eric (Rebecca) Ernst; grandchildren, Samantha, Guy III, Penelope, and Lucy; siblings, Leonard (Marge) Ernst, Tom (Diane) Ernst, Bill Ernst, Nancy (Larry) Schwager, and Ron Ernst; mother-in-law, Millie Haxmeier; brother-in-law, Keith (Dena) Haxmeier; sister-in-law, Jane (Ron Simon) Thoma; and several special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John Ernst; Mary Carlson; and father-in-law, Wayne “Bud” Haxmeier.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday September 24, 2026, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Catholic Church. The Rosary will be said prior to the visitation at the church starting at 8:30 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the church with Rev. Martin Coolidge officiating. Burial will be held at a later date.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.