Gregory “Jeep” Edward Bradley of Dubuque, IA passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 28th, 2024 surrounded by his loud and loving family after a short but hard-fought battle with cancer.

Jeep was born to Robert and Elsie (Koch) Bradley on May 19th, 1949. After he graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1967, Jeep enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1969 and worked his way up the ranks to a Sergeant Crew Chief where he worked as an aircraft mechanic. He was described by his superior officers as being “loyal and highly respectful to his subordinates as well as his superiors”. In addition, due to his firm support of the Equal Opportunity and Treatment Program, as well as his “excellent working knowledge of the OV-10A aircraft systems and operations, his Lieutenant Colonel noted “It is a distinct pleasure to have such an outstanding NCO in this squadron.” During his service, Jeep was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. After several years of active duty in the Vietnam War as well as serving in the Air Force Reserves, Jeep was Honorably Discharged from the United States Air Force in April of 1975.

In 1976, Jeep married Markleanne Dietz. They later divorced but continued to partner together in raising their daughter Coe (Michael) Hagen. Jeep was delighted to welcome his most recent grandchild, Anders, in 2021.

Jeep then met LuAnn (Noel) Bradley in 1999 and instantly realized he had found his north end soulmate. They married on 2/17/2004 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Despite having to take on three “hoochie mama” bonus daughters, the two were a match made in a pool hall. Brenda (Jeremy) Duvel, Kelly “Tunie” (Jeremy) Giesemann, and Julie Pfohl were elated to see their mama so happy. Jeep was later blissfully burdened by Brenda’s kids: Ryan (Courtney Westphal) Konrardy and Lizzy Konrardy, as well as Tunie’s kids: Alidia Mickelson, Kyrah Pfohl, and Knox Giesemann.

Jeep enjoyed life at every moment. One of his favorite activities was showing off his golf skills, which Coe inherited, but unfortunately his son-in-laws did not. He played often at the Galena Golf Course where he maintained a membership. He also liked to play pool (billiards) and was a great shot…just ask him. Anyone who knows Jeep knows that he and LuAnn loved to go on their various tropical vacations where he loved to take naps by the beach. When they couldn’t get out of the States, he was busy yelling “fire in the hole” while making his famous margaritas at Lake Joy. It was through his love of his MG Midget that he joined the Tri-State British Sports Car Owners. Jeep spent many years selling all of his favorite trinkets for Landmark Novelties, Inc. The one thing that Jeep would want everyone to know is that he enjoyed these hobbies, but it was the lifelong friends that he gained that meant the most to him.     

Jeep loved telling stories (multiple times), telling every grandkid they’re his favorite when the other ones weren’t around, and watching Westerns and “Shoot ‘em Up, Bloody Guts” movies. Above all; however, he truly cherished taking rides all over the tri-state area with the love of his life, LuAnn, in their 1976 MG Midget.

In addition to his awesome family, other people left to carry on his memories are his brother Bob (Bette) Bradley and his sister, Jan (Robert) Reuskens. He also left behind his favorite brother-in-law, Kevin Noel and his other favorite brother-in-law, Mark (Jill) Noel.     

Jeep was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Linda Gericke.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all of the wonderful healthcare professionals at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Iowa City, as well as those with Hospice of Dubuque for managing the care of Jeep and the support they provided for LuAnn.

A Fiesta de la Vida (a party of life) will take place at Stone Cliff Winery on Sunday, March 3rd from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. A short Military service to commemorate Jeep’s service and dedication to our country will begin promptly at 1:00 pm behind the Stone Cliff Winery building by the American Legion Post #6. Immediately following, friends and family are invited to join for appetizers and a toast to Jeep. You are encouraged to wear your favorite tropical attire to honor Jeep’s love of fun in the sun.

The family is grateful for Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory’s help in coordinating all of these arrangements.