Eugene J. Hingtgen, Jr., 76, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 10, 2025, at home, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the funeral home. Committal prayers with military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Eugene was born on January 12, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Eugene I. and Mary (Landa) Hingtgen. He married the love of his life, Donna M. Mess, on November 5. Together they built a beautiful life and had just celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary. He served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. During his deployment, Eugene learned and developed his skill in welding. After returning home, he continued his calling as a welder, dedicating many years of hard work to John Deere in Dubuque, retiring after 32 years of service.

Eugene then began a new chapter – one filled with the things that mattered most to him. He could often be found playing 18 holes at local golf courses or spending time with his family and beloved pets. He enjoyed floating in the pool or cheering from the stands at the many sporting events he attended. He was ready to enjoy a life that allowed him to move between his familiar Iowa roots and the sunshine of Florida, where he and Donna frequently traveled before eventually purchasing a home. There, he continued to enjoy golfing on the Florida greens.

Eugene possessed a quick, witty sense of humor that could always make you laugh and had a gift for bringing warmth wherever he went. He was often seen with a smile on his face and a Pepsi or coffee in his hand. He had a special talent for giving nicknames to the people he loved, and through that kindness he cultivated many meaningful friendships. He will be remembered as a bright, gentle soul.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; his four children: Christina Metz; Eugene Joseph (Kelly) Hingtgen III; Pamela Hingtgen (Kevin); and Aron Hingtgen. His legacy continues with his 10 grandchildren and their spouses: April (Torelle), Delainey, Alaytra (Brandan), Eugene IV (Alyssa), Levi (Jessica), Alanis (Jake), Cheyenne (Dylan), Ashton (Austin), Tristan, and Grayson; and his seven great-grandchildren: Chase, Sophia, Liam, Mia, Ellie, Finn, Perry, and Parker. He is also survived by his siblings, Linda (Tom) Deves, Rick Hingtgen, Ron Hingtgen, and Mary (Tommy Richmond) Moldenhauer; his brother-in-law, Roger Datisman; and many nieces and nephews, including a special niece and goddaughter, Shelly Mess.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene I. and Mary (Landa) Hingtgen; his sister, Bev Datisman; and several close family members who welcomed him home.

To his faithful friends and pallbearers – Phil Konrardy, Rick Youtzy, Ed Tracy, Dan Hoffman, Mark Pauly, and Steve Firzlaff – your loyalty, compassion, and constant support meant the world to Eugene, and he was truly grateful for your friendship.

In lieu of flowers, a Eugene Hingtgen Memorial Fund will be established, with donations made in his honor to the Veterans Freedom Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the team at Hospice of Dubuque for their dedication and the compassionate care they provided to Eugene.