Donald J. Glab passed away peacefully on Monday, December 23, 2024, of esophageal cancer. Born on December 9, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa, the youngest son of five rowdy boys to Eldon and Irene (Tanner) Glab. Don attended Saint Patrick’s Catholic School through eighth grade, Washington Junior High School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1970. After graduation he joined the U.S. Air Force and honorably served his country. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Deborah Terry, on October 21, 1972.

Don was employed by John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years until his well-earned and irreplaceable retirement. He remained a proud UAW Local 94 member. In his spare time, his love for restoring classic cars became not only a passion and hobby, but a highly sought after talent. His 67 Chevelle, 55 Chevrolet Delray, and 61 Volkswagen Beetle were among his favorite cars. Don served as a past president of the Iowa Chapter of the Volkswagen Club of America and enjoyed hosting, attending (and winning) many car shows.

A doting girl dad, Don, worked hard to provide for his family and was proud of his daughters. Known as “Bamps” to his grandkids, he loved hearing their stories, watching them grow and sharing their snacks. Able to make the silliest jokes at the best times, he kept everyone laughing. A lover of 60’s rock music including the Beach Boys, Don always had a radio playing. In his retirement, Don enjoyed attending the grandkids’ activities, playing with the grand-dogs, and yard work. His most prized hobby was that of making intricate classic car models and dioramas.

To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, with Father Andy Upah officiating and where military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque American Legion Post 6. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery next to his granddaughter, Charlotte.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include his wife of 52 years, Deb Glab.

Daughters, Jenny (Jason) Donath of Dubuque, Iowa and Becky (Jason) Bruce of Dubuque, Iowa.

Grandchildren, Sam Donath, Ben Donath, Sam Bruce, Eleanor Bruce and Beau Bruce.

Siblings, Gary (Joni) Glab, East Dubuque, IL, and Eldon “Joe” (Phyllis) Glab, Omaha, NE.

Sister-in-law, Bonnie Glab, brother-in-law Ron (Vicki) Terry, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Terry Glab, brother, Tom (Georgia) Glab Sr., sister-in-law Cheryl Terry and granddaughter Charlotte Bruce.

Don’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Wendt Regional Cancer Center, Chris Weber and the team at Hospice of Dubuque and Reverand Andy Upah for all their kindness, compassion and professional care.

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