John R. McCarthy, 98, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away peacefully, at home, on March 18, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side.

Family and friends may call from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Bosco Aruldoss officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA, where military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

He was born on February 25, 1928, the son of William John and Harriet Eleanor (Hird) McCarthy.

John grew up farming and went on to have a long and dedicated career in the delivery business. From mirrors to oil, soda to beer—he did it all. He took great pride in serving his customers and formed lasting relationships with many of them over the years.

In 1951, he met the love of his life, Marjorie “Marge” Patricia Theodore. Jack pursued her diligently and, after several rebuffs, Marge eventually succumbed to his charm. They dated for five years before marrying on June 9, 1956, and together built a life centered around their three children.

John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his family. They were the center of his life. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors and enjoyed gardening, caring for animals, and spending time in nature. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures and felt most at peace while morel hunting or fishing with his children. His grandchildren were, without a doubt, wonderfully spoiled—and proud of it.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Marge; his sister, Kathleen (Jim) Hollis, of Reno, Nevada; his children, Michael (Pamela), Richard (Karen), and Cheryl (John) Pregler; his grandchildren, Mary (Clint), Johnny (Megan), and Audrey (Dalton); and his great-grandchildren, Zoiee, Taytem, Emily, and Lachlynn.

He was preceded in death by many loved ones (he was 98 after all!) who no doubt welcomed him home. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Kenneth Steffen, his wonderful nurse, Kristin, and his caregivers, Ashleigh, Kim, and Madalyn, for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©