Wilfred J. “Willie” Lueken, age 85, of Durango, IA, completed his earthly journey on December 11, 2025, at home.  To honor Willie’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 2100 St. Joseph Street in Dubuque, with the Very Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating.  Family and friends of Willie’s are invited to join in fellowship from 1:00-2:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Willie’s family.

Willie was born on July 20, 1940, in Luxemburg, IA, a son to Herman and Marie (Ries) Lueken.  He was fortunate enough to have lived a full and abundant life surrounded by family and friends while enjoying the beauty of God’s country all around him.  He met the love of his life, Joann Klein, in high school and the couple was united in marriage and blessed with three children. Sadly, their son, Todd, was called home at the age of 14 in a motorcycle accident, but we find peace today in knowing they are both catching up now and will never be separated again.

Willie invested 35 years of his working career with John Deere Dubuque Works, as well as another 30 years farming.  He was gifted with a strong work ethic and this trait was continually on display for all to watch, learn and benefit from.  Willie also honorably served in the Army National Guard from 1960 – 1966.

In his younger years, softball and basketball filled his spare time, and later in life bowling and golfing with his buddies was a favorite pastime. He was an avid sports fan and when the Cubs, Bears or Hawkeye’s were playing, his favorite recliner was exactly where he desired to be.  He was sure to make time for NASCAR as well.

Willie was a faithful member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church and the UAW Local #94. He was very proud of his kids and grandkids, whether in their academic, athletic or career based successes. Willie lead by example and left a legacy of an incredible work ethic and kind spirit. May the Lord bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Willie include,

his wife of over 62 years,
Joann Lueken, Durango, IA;

his two daughters,
Tracey (Rob) Burds, Peosta, IA,
and Tara (Shawn) Staner, Peosta, IA;

his grandchildren,
Brianna (Derek Freeman) Burds, Blair Burds, Jenna (fiancé Freddie Hosch) Burds, Jordan (Grant Griffin) Burds, Brayden Staner, Brody Staner and Landon Staner;

his siblings,
Rita Engelken, Manchester, IA,
Paul (Luella) Lueken, Colesburg, IA,
and Donald (Mikk) Lueken, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Lavern Klein, Dubuque, IA,
Joan Klein, Durango, IA,
and Elaine Lueken, Dyersville, IA;

his favorite canine companion,
Prince;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Todd Lueken; his siblings, Arnold (Bernice) Lueken, Mildred (Al) Lombard, Anna Mae (Alfred) Tobin and Robert Lueken; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Ralph Engelken, Donald Klein, Ileen Klein, Rita Mae (Leo) Barton and Marina (Eldon) Feldman.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Willie’s honor.

Willie’s family would like to thank Dr. Timothy King, his staff, along with Dr. Mo and the nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Willie’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com