John “Jack” Lovell, 89, was welcomed into eternal life surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, service, and devotion to those he loved.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45 a.m., Thursday, June 18, 2026, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Dubuque, where a Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Mark Ressler officiating. A livestream of the funeral Mass can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/event/5998596. Burial will follow in St. Francis de Sales Cemetery, Hazel Green, Wisconsin, where full military honors will be accorded by the Hazel Green American Legion Post #526 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jack was born on January 16, 1937, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, to Eugene and Agnes (Murray) Lovell. The third oldest of eight children, he grew up on family farms in the Fennimore, Cuba City, and Hazel Green area, where he developed a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for family, and a love of the outdoors. He enjoyed playing football and baseball and graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. Committed to lifelong learning, he later earned his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Stout.

Jack proudly served in the United States Army. While stationed overseas, he embraced a spirit of adventure that remained with him throughout his life. Upon returning home, Jack married Mary Splinter on August 13, 1966. They were just two months shy of celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. Together they built a beautiful life and family in Dubuque.

For more than 30 years, Jack was a beloved Industrial Arts teacher and football coach who impacted generations of students with his patience, wisdom, and steady encouragement. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren. He was also a devoted fan of the Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers, and Chicago Cubs.

Faith was at the center of Jack’s life. A devoted member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, he generously served his church community for many years. Summers in Waupaca held a special place in his heart, as did the annual Lovell Campout, a cherished family tradition that brought loved ones together for more than 52 years and continues to grow. He loved fishing and hunting with family and friends and was a gifted carpenter and woodworker who took pride in sharing his craft with others.

Jack will be remembered for his quick wit, memorable one-liners, gentle humor, and the sparkle that was always present in his eye. His kindness touched everyone he met, and his quiet presence made people feel welcome and valued.

One of Jack’s greatest gifts to his family was a book he wrote about his life, preserving his stories and memories for future generations. Above all, he cherished his family. He adored his grandchildren and was overjoyed to welcome his great-grandson, Gryffin.

Jack is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Anne (Jamie) Trausch of East Dubuque, Illinois, Cindy (Gerry) Clark of Waunakee, Wisconsin, and Matt (Holly) Lovell of Verona, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Kelly (Jake) Norton of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Luke (fiancée Rachel Mathis) Frommelt of Appleton, Wisconsin, Caroline Lovell and Jack Lovell of Verona, Wisconsin; and great-grandson, Gryffin Norton of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is also survived by his siblings, Gary Lovell, Maureen Fabian, Mary (Ron) Dankert, and Mike (Jean) Lovell; in-laws, Donald Splinter, June Price, Joyce (Wayne) Fowler, Margo Lovell, and Susan Lovell. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Tom Lovell, Leonard Lovell, and Lawrence Lovell; brothers-in-law, Jerry Fabian, Charlie Richardson, Jerry Price, and Jim Lynch; and sisters-in-law, Joan Lovell, Shirley Richardson, and Donna Splinter.

We are honored to celebrate a life well lived and a man deeply loved. Jack’s legacy lives on in the family he treasured, the students he taught, the traditions he created, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, a John “Jack” Lovell Memorial Fund has been established where donations will be distributed to Jack’s favorite charities.

Jack’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Mount Carmel Bluffs and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.