James Joseph “Jim” Vessels, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 2, 2026 at his home in Dubuque. Jim was born on February 22, 1949 to Philip H. Vessels and Ethel C. (Murphy) Vessels in Louisville, Kentucky. He attended Holy Cross Grade School and Flaget High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Louisville in 1971. Jim worked for 15 years at General Electric and retired early to take care of his younger brother Philip following the death of their parents. Jim and Philip were best buddies and were together until Philip’s passing in 2009.

Jim met his future wife, Debbie McGrath, in 1998. Jim was Debbie’s person and they enjoyed many things during their life together: traveling, British television and their animal family (Monkers, Jones, Twixy, Elsie and Harvey). But after moving to Dubuque in 2007, Jim’s most favorite activity was looking out at his beautiful backyard- “Jim’s kingdom.”

Jim is survived by his wife, Debbie McGrath, and two shared daughters, Tess Tari and Traci (Drew) McDonald. He was a proud grandfather “Papa” of Tori McGrath, Qwynn (Ean) Thomas, Baker Littrell, Ferris and Martha McDonald.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Ethel Vessels, brothers Bill (Betty) and Philip Vessels, and in-laws Mike Cahill and Patricia (Jim) Hefel Schute.

Jim was the kindest, most romantic and most intelligent man. He was so selfless and would do anything for his family. His laughter, generosity, storytelling and calming presence will be missed by us all but especially by his person.

Thanks to Dr. Jared Freiburger and Hospice of Dubuque for helping us give Jim the care he needed.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date to be announced. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

He was my North, my South, my East and West.

My working week, my Sunday rest

My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;

I thought that love would last forever; I was wrong

– W.H. Auden