Eileen Leland, 89, of Dubuque, passed away February 23, 2024 at home.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00a.m., Saturday, March 9, 2024, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 1199 Main Street, Dubuque, Ia. Memorial Services will immediately follow at 11:00a.m., with Rev. Stephanie Schlimm officiating.

Eileen was born on April 26, 1934 to Charles and Marie (Armstrong) Smith in Alden, MN.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Mankato State University.

Eileen was a gifted and passionate teacher in the Dubuque Community School District for 35 years, retiring in 1992.

She had a strong interest in space flight and had many programs for her class to study outer space. She applied for the teacher/astronaut spot on the space shuttle, Challenger. She also got invited to a major space symposium, where she got to see a presentation by multiple astronauts and got to meet Carl Sagan in person!

In her free time she enjoyed woodworking, where she designed and sold various pieces for the home.

Eileen was an excellent singer and loved listening to music, especially live performances. She held season tickets to the Dubuque Symphany which she enjoyed thoroughly.

She loved travelling and enjoyed taking trips to visit family and sightseeing. In her free time, she enjoyed coffee and dinner with friends, and reading.

Eileen was a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

Eileen is survived by her children, Christopher S. Leland of Ft. Worth, TX, Daniel R. (Susan E.) Leland of Dallas, TX, and John C. (Michelle M.) Leland of Dubuque, IA. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Daniel A. Leland of Chicago, IL, and Kristen D. Leland of Washington, DC.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Daryl Smith; and sister, Maxine Rogness.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Eileen’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.