John R. Hirsch

John R. Hirsch, 68, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, November 11th, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. A man known for his wit, wisdom, and craftsmanship.

Born on September 30, 1956, the son of John R. “Jack” and Lorraine (Fransen) Hirsch, he spent his early years learning the value of hard work and perseverance from his parents. He married the love of his life, Joyce Lanser, on October 26, 1973, and together they shared 51 years of marriage, building a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and memories.

John was a “Jack of all trades” and a master of many. He owned and operated Hirsch Home Improvement for over 40 years, using his skills to help countless people. Whether it was a bathroom remodel, a furnace repair, or any project that stumped others, he was the go-to guy for solutions. Known as the “Bathroom King” for his many bathroom remodels.  John’s handiwork was always done with precision and care. But it wasn’t just his craftsmanship that made him special—it was his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Whether working with his hands, or troubleshooting a mechanical issue, John’s demeanor, and knowledge made him someone people could always count on.

John’s life was defined by his motto: “Work smarter, not harder,” which he lived out every day. He passed down this philosophy to his children, grandchildren, and many others he mentored throughout the years. His grandkids were among the lucky ones to learn from his quiet wisdom and hands-on expertise, whether they were working together on a golf cart restoration or tackling a project in his shop.

John was always surrounded by family and friends who cherished his humor, wit, and his unwavering presence. He had a nickname for everyone, and while he wasn’t one to talk much, when he did, his words were either filled with sarcasm or profound wisdom. He was known for his sweet mustache, his love of sweets (especially his nightly treat with a glass of “brown cow”), and his quiet, but powerful way of showing up for the people he loved.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John R. “Jack” Hirsch and Lorraine (Fransen) Hirsch; his sister, Tina (Hirsch) LaRue; his in-laws, Daniel and Jeanette (Anglin) Lanser; and his brother-in-law, Vern Kluesner.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his three children, Jeremy (Shelbie Engler) Hirsch, Jody Hirsch, and Jim (Stacy) Hirsch; and his nine grandchildren: Jordan Hirsch, Logan Hirsch, Jalyn Hirsch, Connor McCarty, Chloe McCarty, Caleb McCarty, Lillian McCarty, Quintin Hirsch, and Ilee Hirsch.

John is also survived by his siblings, Linda (Craig) Bowman, Peggy (Jack) Redmond, Steve (Janet) Hirsch, David (Gina) Hirsch, and the late Tina (Greg) LaRue. He will be dearly missed by his in-laws, Jimmy (Ann) Lanser, Jean Gross, Jackie (Vern) Kluesner, Judy (TC) Christianson, John (Jeanie) Lanser, Joan (Robert) Gansmer, Jane (Dan) Tressel, Jerry (Carla) Lanser, Joe (Beulah Duve) Lanser, Janann Oertel, and Jay (Shelley) Lanser.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 24th, 2024, at the Dubuque Shooting Society, 10376 Route 3, Dubuque, IA.

In lieu of flowers, a John R. Hirsch memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences for John’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com