Edwin Wayne Petesch, affectionately known as “Scooby,” age 77, of Leisure Lake, Bernard, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at Luther Manor, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial with full military honors by American Legion Post #6 will take place at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Wayne was born on August 13, 1947, in Savanna, Illinois, to Edwin Theodore Petesch and Mary “Lenore” (Faley) Petesch. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970.
He was a dedicated employee of John Deere Dubuque Works for 37 years, working across multiple divisions and forming lifelong friends along the way.

Wayne had a huge heart and a strong presence. He was quick with a sarcastic remark and just as quick to help someone in need. He’d give you the shirt off his back (that is, if he had a shirt on). A lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs, he loved playing Euchre and was always ready to invite someone in for a drink at the lake. He was also a lifelong animal lover, especially of his beloved Saint Bernards – Troy, Josie, Jessie, and Bernie – as well as Buffy, Rusty, Muffy, Hazel, Grover, Grady, Sparky, Marley, and any dog who was lucky enough to meet him.

Wayne is survived by his daughter, Sarah (Rick) Ring; his son, Matthew (Tina) Petesch; his brother, Kevin (Vonnie) Petesch; and his grandchildren: Katelynn, Morgan, Ryan, and Ben. He is also survived by stepchildren Gary (Jennifer) Pape and Jennifer (Omar) Chaudhry, and step-grandchildren Gary Jr., Joshua, Emily (Ethan), Kevin, and Zayan. He leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and a special friend, DeEtt Bergfeld.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Brian Wayne Petesch; his wives, Carol (Campbell) Petesch and Lynn (Latenser) Petesch; and his niece, Jessica Lynn Petesch.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of MercyOne and Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.