Joseph Alban Unsen, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on September 5, 2026, at Stonehill Health Center.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to noon on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A time for sharing will begin at noon with closing prayers to follow.

Joe was born on April 10, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Arnold and Mary Fromptknecht Unsen. He attended college at Iowa State, but it was cut short and he came back to Dubuque. After returning, he worked various jobs before retiring from Anderson Window after 29 years.

Joe made friends easily and most became lifelong. He was an amazing cook and liked to please everyone. He always made us laugh and never took himself too seriously. He will be missed, but he has three friends waiting for him with an open seat at their euchre table.

Joe is survived by his wife of nearly 38 years, Diane Unsen; his son, Joseph Richard Unsen; his daughter, Jamie; three grandsons; his brother, Jim (Barb) Unsen; his sister, Jane Scardino; his aunt, Marge; brother’s and sister’s in-law, many nieces and nephews who adored Uncle Joe; and many good friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his mother and father in-law.

In lieu of flowers or other memorials, the family requests donating to a favorite charity or to get a pizza from Papa Murphy’s.

Thank you to the amazing staff at MercyOne Hospital 4th floor as well as the wonderful staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque.