James E. “Jim” Metz, age 71, Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on August 24, 2024, at home, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on November 20, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Ralph “Pete” and Delores (Leppert) Metz. He was a kind and generous man and always gave more of himself than he would ever hope to receive.  Jim spent his working career with Rite Hite, but those who knew him well were quite aware that his happy place was truly getting comfortable in his favorite recliner after he arrived home when the workday was done. Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life, but if the opportunity arose to do a little traveling around the world with his beautiful bride in hand, Jim was going to rise to the occasion and allow the next adventure to begin.  He was also a faithful volunteer within our community and when Resources Unite, or a food giveaway was in need of some assistance, you could be sure that Jim was going to be present and accounted for.  His easy-going nature was continually on display and getting in a relaxing walk in with a little sunlight and some fresh air around him was all Jim required to assess the day as a perfect one. We will miss Jim more than words could possibly depict accurately, but we know that his earthly health battles were taking a toll that Jim was simply finished paying.  Thank you, Jim, for reminding us that life can be as humble and rewarding as we choose to make it and we hope that you are resting peacefully today in the loving arms of our Savior as we wait patiently to see your sincere and joy filled smile once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his loving wife of 52 years,
Vickie Metz, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Aaron (Tara) Metz, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Olivia Metz, Brady Metz, Carter Fisher, Haley Dressler, and Hunter Dressler;

his sibling,
Kenny (June) Metz, Dubuque, IA,
Danny (Mary) Metz, Dubuque, IA,
LuAnn Metz, Dubuque, IA,
Linda (Chuck) Kleiner, Dubuque, IA,
and Lori (John) Dunwoody, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Tom (Becky) Weidenbacher, Dubuque, IA,
Albert (Amy) Weidenbacher, Dubuque, IA,
David (Dana) Weidenbacher, Grundy Center, IA,
Ron Weidenbacher, Leisure Lake, IA,
Linda (Tong) Chong, East Dubuque, IL,
Rhonda (Kenny) Norpel, Dubuque, IA,
and Pam Reding, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Eric J. Metz; his daughter, Alicia Metz; and his mother and father-in-law, Al (Joyce) Weidenbacher.

Jim’s family would like to thank Dr. Freiburger, his staff, and the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com