Dennis J. “Denny” Koppes, 71, of East Dubuque, IL., passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, at home.

A celebration of life will be held in his memory on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Midtown Marina, 285 5th St, East Dubuque, IL., from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All are welcome! Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, is assisting the family.

Denny was born on September 27, 1954, an identical twin, to Norbert and Eloise (Klinkenberg) Koppes. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works until his retirement, where he was a member of Local Union UAW94.

Denny married Carol Glesne-Koppes on August 31, 1996, in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on March 31, 2016. Together they spent many days boating and fishing on the Mississippi with their river crew, where you could always find him driving the Baja a little too fast. Denny was affectionately known as the “tan man” that always had a Busch Light in hand. He also enjoyed yearly trips to Mexico and the Caribbean with Carol and friends, where he was only as old as he behaved.

He is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Rob) Klauer and Amy (Brian) Becker; grandchildren, Robbie Klauer, Lauren Klauer, Ava, Cole and Leah Becker, all of Dubuque; step-son Alan (Judy) Glesne; step-grandson, Vance Glesne; siblings, twin brother, Dave Koppes of Loveland, CO., brother, Wayne Koppes of Bucksport, ME., sisters, Billie Meyer of Cedar Rapids and Debra Peterson of Dubuque; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Denny was preceded in death by his wife Carol; his parents Norbert and Eloise; sisters, Sherry Brimeyer and Dianna Morrow; nephew, Lee Morrow; in-laws, Gayle Koppes and Tim Peterson; and his best friend Jack (Benny) Bennett.

The family would like to thank the East Dubuque EMS and Police Department and family and friends for showing their support during this difficult time. A special thank you to Randy Bellings for being a great friend and always checking in on Denny.