Thomas Michael Roush, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home at 8:02 a.m. on July 4, 2026, with his beloved wife, Mary Schwartz, by his side, following a courageous six-year battle with cancer.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, there will be no public services.

Born on January 23, 1953, Tom lived a life defined by love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family. As the son of an active-duty serviceman, he spent much of his childhood traveling the world, an experience that shaped his adventurous spirit and gave him a deep appreciation for life’s many experiences.

Tom had a lifelong passion for fishing, hunting, and music. Whether he was fishing and hunting, spending time in the woods, listening to his favorite songs, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was known for his one-of-a-kind sense of humor and quick wit, always ready with a joke or clever remark that could brighten any room and leave those around him laughing. Above all else, his greatest pride was his family. He treasured every opportunity to make memories with them, and his love, wisdom, and guidance will remain with them always.

Tom was also known for his incredible work ethic and the quiet strength of his character. He never shied away from hard work and believed that a man should provide for, protect, and care for the people he loved. Whether he was working long hours, lending a helping hand, or offering support to a friend or neighbor, Tom gave everything he had without expecting anything in return. To his family, he was the true definition of what it means to be a man—honest, dependable, humble, resilient, and selfless. He led not only with his words but with his actions, leaving behind an example of integrity, perseverance, and unconditional love that will continue to guide those who knew him.

Even throughout his six-year battle with cancer, Tom faced each day with remarkable strength, courage, and grace. His determination, positive spirit, and unwavering love for his family inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Mary Schwartz; his daughter, Jessie Boone, and her husband, Jake Boone; his son, Andy Roush, and his wife, Caity Roush; his stepsons, Luke Cosgrove and Calvin Cosgrove; Luke Cosgrove’s wife, Martha Cosgrove, and their children, Charles Cosgrove and Eloise Cosgrove; his cherished grandchildren, Gavin Boone, Taylor Boone, and Isla Roush; his older sister, Barb, and her husband, Bob; his younger brother, Jim, and his wife, Cheryl; his beloved nieces and nephews, Todd, Jen, Susie, Jason, Nick, Tony, Zach, Luke, Beth, and Brooks; his lifelong best friends, Mike Denum, Mike Moyer, and Neal Andrews; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Roush and Pauline Roush, and by his sisters, Charlie Purdy and Paula Leseure.

Tom’s life was a testament to the importance of family, hard work, perseverance, and finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter, strength, and integrity that will continue to live on through those who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, the countless memories he created and the love he shared will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Tom is now at peace. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his love was a gift that will never be forgotten.