Thomas D. “Tom” Elkins, 64, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Thomas Dean Elkins was born on June 20, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Howard James and Lois LaVonne (Clark) Elkins.  He grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1978 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  On January 20, 1979, he married Dixie Wohlgamuth in Andrew, Iowa, and together they welcomed three sons: Mike, Adam, and Justin. Although Tom and Dixie later divorced, their shared love for their children remained constant.  In 2003, Tom’s heart found its match in LuAnn Carlson Schepers, and they married on his birthday at the picturesque Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna, Illinois.

Tom’s professional life was a testament to his skill and dedication. He began his career as a mechanic at Kirk and Otting in Maquoketa, followed by a tenure at Ed Morse Ford in DeWitt. He ultimately spent many years at Rasmussen Motor Company/Brad Deery Motors in Maquoketa, where his expertise and work ethic were highly valued.

Beyond his work, Tom had a passion for working on cars that extended into his personal life. He was also an avid train enthusiast, often found watching the locomotives chug by, lost in thought about the intricate mechanics that powered them. Tom’s curiosity about how things worked was a defining trait, one that he passed on to his children and grandchildren.  Hunting was another of Tom’s pursuits, however, it was the time spent with his family that truly filled his heart.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife LuAnn Elkins of Maquoketa, IA; children, Mike (Alycia) Elkins of Tiffin, IA, Adam Elkins of Ottumwa, IA, and Justin (Anna) Elkins of Rochester, MN; stepchildren, Brian (Bethany Sams) Schepers of Maquoketa, IA, and Matt (Kaitlin) Schepers of Bettendorf, IA; 10 grandchildren; and siblings, Evelyn (Dave) Miller of MO, Nancy (Al) Muhlhausen of Maquoketa, IA, James “Jim” Elkins of Maquoketa, IA, and John (Joey) Elkins of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and dogs Roscoe and Jackson.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, April 7, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.CarsonAndSon.com.