Thomas G. “Tom” Hitzler

Thomas G. “Tom” Hitzler, age 73, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics in Iowa City while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Tom’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 2921 Central Avenue in Dubuque, with Rev. Steve Garner officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on April 25, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Anthony J. “Tony” and Esther (Peters) Hitzler.  Sadly, his mother, Esther, was called home much too early when the kids were young and Tony was blessed to find love again with Barbara Wasser, who loved and nurtured the children just as her own.   Tom always loved the color green and getting to spend over 30 years at John Deere Dubuque Works investing his time and talents was surely a perfect fit.  He took great pride in his work and enjoyed the last 20 years of his retirement where he treasured the fruits of his labors.

Tom was a quiet and reserved man at his core, but to his larger-than-life heart was continually on display.  His love for his fellow man and animals ran deep and you would never find a gentler soul than Tom.  He was also an avid fan of the Baltimore Orioles and Indianapolis Colts; rarely missing a game when his teams took the field.  We are going to miss Tom’s bright light walking among us moving forward, but do pray that he is now free from his earthly health battles and residing in eternal perfection.  Thank you, Tom, for always being true to yourself and those around you and may the love and peace of the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his siblings,

Anthony M. “Tony” (Sylvia) Hitzler, Dubuque, IA,

Jim (Elley) Hitzler, Dubuque, IA,

Sandra “Sandy” Hitzler, Dubuque, IA,

and Ann Durey, Rock Island, IL;

his nieces and nephews,

Jim (Kim) Hitzler,

Sharon Hitzler,

Tammy (Matt) Lawrence,

Mike Hitzler,

Tim Hitzler,

and Jenny (Kevin) Hitzler;

his step-nieces and nephews,

Gary Scheffert,

Cheri Miller,

Matt (Cassie) Boyer,

Casey (Steph) Boyer,

and Christy (significant other, Tyler) Boyer;

his favorite canine companion,

Sofie;

along with great-nieces and nephews, a great-great nephew, numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Esther (Peters) Hitzler; his step-mother, Barbara (Wasser) Hitzler; his brother, Joe Hitzler; and his brother-in-law, Dick Durey.

In lieu of flowers, a Thomas G. Hitzler memorial fund has been established.

Tom’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dubuque Fire Department and EMT for their prompt and professional care.  Along with the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Finley ER and the University of Iowa for all of their compassion and support during this difficult time.   

Online condolences may be shared with Tom’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com