John L. Kilburg, 74, and Donelle J. Kilburg, 70, of Spragueville, Iowa, a devoted couple whose love and kindness touched many hearts, passed away together on March 6, 2024. John experienced a medical emergency, while Donelle’s passing followed due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Highway 13 and Travis Road in Marion, Iowa.

A Gathering of Family and Friends Celebrating John and Donelle’s life will be held from 2 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  A memorial mass with spreading of ashes will be held at a future date this summer.

John Larry Kilburg was born on August 31, 1949 in Clinton, Iowa, to Raymond John and Rita Mary (Tebbe) Kilburg.  His early life was marked by dedication and service. A proud 1967 graduate of Preston High School, he soon answered the call of duty by enlisting in the U.S. Army. His time in the military was distinguished by an honorable discharge. After his service, John found love and started a family with Kathy Yaddof in 1975, welcoming two children, Megan, and Brant, into the world. Although their marriage ended in divorce, John’s journey led him to Donelle Streets Heneke, whom he met through her employment at the ASCS office.  They were married on December 27, 1991, in Maquoketa, Iowa, building a loving blended family that stood the test of time for 32 years.

John’s professional life was as grounded as he was, with his roots deeply entrenched in the soil of his farm. A lifelong farmer, he also served the Illinois Fish and Wildlife Service as a maintenance worker from 1994 until his well-deserved retirement in 2015. His work ethic was unmatched, as evidenced by his over 30-year tenure with the B & G Auction House, where he worked part-time. Even in retirement, John’s passion for agriculture never waned, as he continued to work for Cornelius Seed Corn and lent his expertise to various local farmers.

The simple pleasures in life brought John the greatest joy. He relished the time spent outdoors, tending to his farm, and taking his grandchildren for joyful Kubota rides. His love for antiquing and attending auctions was only matched by the joy he found in socializing and cherishing moments with friends and family. John’s presence was a comforting constant at the farm, where he and the “two cats” were familiar fixtures.

John’s legacy is carried on by his loving children: Megan (Jeff) Rettray of Bloomfield Hills, MI, Brant Kilburg of San Diego, CA, Erich Heneke of Rochester, MN, and Alycia (Steve) Benischek of Tiffin, IA. His memory will be treasured by his seven grandchildren: Liam, Emerson, Hadley, Brinley, Kennady, Kingston, and Ryan, who will miss their grandfather’s warmth and wisdom. He is also survived by his sisters, Jane Bormann of Preston, IA, and Ruth (Robert) Steines of Spragueville, IA; his brothers, Richard (Rhonda) Kilburg of FL, Dennis (Kathy) Kilburg of Altoona, IA, and Mike (Debbie) Kilburg of DeWitt, IA; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents and his brother-in-law, Verlyn Bormann.

Donelle Jean Streets was born on November 19, 1953 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Donald and Pauline (Miller) Streets.  She was a 1972 graduate of Maquoketa High School, and her commitment to her community was evident early on. Her marriage to John L. Kilburg on December 27, 1991, in Maquoketa, whom she met through her employment, brought together a blended family that became a cornerstone of her life. Together, they nurtured a home filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support.

Donelle’s professional life was marked by over three decades of dedicated service as the chief program technician for the Jackson County ASCS Office, now known as the Farm Service Agency. She retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to the agricultural community she served so diligently. Her work ethic was further showcased through her part-time role at B & G Auction House.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Donelle’s passions were manifold. She had a creative spirit, often found immersed in crafts and reading. Her love for the outdoors was shared with John on the farm, a place where they both found great joy and solace. Donelle also accompanied John on his work trips, making memories together.  Yet, it was her role as a grandmother that Donelle cherished most deeply. She leaves behind a legacy of love and joy in her seven grandchildren.

Donelle’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her children, Erich Heneke of Rochester, MN, Alycia (Steve) Benischek of Tiffin, IA, Megan (Jeff) Rettray of Bloomfield Hills, MI, and Brant Kilburg of San Diego, CA. Her seven grandchildren: Hadley, Brinley, Kennady, Kingston, Ryan, Liam, and Emerson. Each of them was a source of immense pride and happiness.  She is also survived by her in-laws, Jane Bormann of Preston, IA, Ruth (Robert) Steines of Spragueville, IA, Richard (Rhonda) Kilburg of FL, Dennis (Kathy) Kilburg of Altoona, IA, and Mike (Debbie) Kilburg of DeWitt, IA; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Drew Streets.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a John L. and Donelle J. Kilburg memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.