Tyler James Thompson, 36, of Dubuque, tragically passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as the result of a car accident.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where sharing of memories will take place at 7 p.m. Interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Tyler was born on December 5, 1988 in Dubuque, the son of Terrance Thompson and Robyn Spechtenhauser. He grew up in Dubuque and moved to Manchester in 2008. Tyler began his employment at Runde Auto Group. Then, while in Manchester, he worked at Henderson, mastering the art of running a brake press. Most recently, Tyler was employed at Geisler Bros., starting his HVAC apprenticeship in 2020 with Local 91. He was looking forward to completing his apprenticeship in August of 2025. He took pride in his work often said, “I love hanging duct-work!”

Tyler married Julie Petsch on May 28, 2017 at the Dubuque Arboretum. His love for Julie was unmistakable, as he referred to her as “My Julie” in the most loving and adoring way possible.

Tyler was a serial hobbyist, exploring woodworking, beer making, fishing and gardening (and he was especially excited to harvest limes off of his lime tree!). He always had a project going (or seven). He was an extreme sports enthusiast, from skydiving or kayaking to skateboarding, and even broke several bones while snowboarding. He enjoyed taking his motorcycle for a ride, playing bags with the guys, and listening to music, from bluegrass and old-school country to rap and rock and roll. Tyler loved to cook, whether in his smoker or otherwise, and his specialty was his delicious (fall off the bone) ribs. He was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Green Bay Packers, and he made sure to celebrate every score.

Tyler will be remembered for his genuine, thoughtful, compassionate and loving nature. He had a smile that would light up a room and gave the best hugs ever! Tyler would give you the last dime he had if he knew you needed it.

Tyler is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his mother, Robyn (Robert “Red”) Ferres, of Quasqueton, IA; his paternal grandmother, Karen Thompson; his siblings, Krystal Thompson, Tiffany Lappert, and Dakota and Cameron Thompson; his step-siblings, Brandy Phend, and Brandon and Brittany Horkheimer; his parents-in-law, Joel and Candi Petsch; his sister-in-law, Marie (Scott) Pillard; many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and their pretty kitty, Whiskey.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terrence (Donna) Thompson; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Karen Spechtenhauser; and his paternal grandfather, Gene Thompson.

Special thanks to the first responders, Dr. Wetjen and nurse Maria for all of their help, care and compassion for Tyler and his loved ones.

“Tyler, you are the love of my life, and my favorite!!!” -Julie