Jon C. Obe
- Obituary
- Services
- Condolences
Jon C. Obe, age 74, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on June 5, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center while surrounded by his loving family. Per Jon’s request, there will be no public services held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jon’s family.
Jon was born on November 6, 1951, in Story City, IA, a son to Richard and Allismay (Goodyear) Obe. Jon joined the U.S. Navy right after graduation from South Hampton High School and honorably served his country while working directly on the flight deck until his service was complete.
Jon was united in marriage to the love of his life, Tammy Holbrook, on November 6, 1983. He had intentionally picked his birthdate as the wedding day so that he would never risk the dreadful consequences of forgetting their anniversary over the years.
Jon began his college education in San Diego and eventually made his way back to Iowa and completed his classes at Kirkwood Community College. Jon faithfully invested his working career as an EEG Tech with Mercy Hospital and it was well known if you wanted the most clinically thorough report possible, Jon was your man.
Jon loved music, all genres were welcome, and was a naturally gifted musician. He played congas and flute often, and well, and also gave his best efforts with the trumpet and saxophone, but not as often, and as Jon would say, “not well”. He was also a talented pool player and enjoyed participating in many pool tournaments throughout the years. Jon enjoyed life, his family and friends. His sense of humor was deep and dry when necessary, but ultimately his only desire was to see others laugh and smile. We will miss Jon’s zest for life, but do thankfully find some peace in knowing that Jon was a prisoner of his illness and now he is free.
Those left to cherish the memory of Jon include,
his loving wife,
Tammy Obe, Dubuque, IA;
his son,
Paul Obe, Dubuque, IA;
his siblings,
Jan (Darin) Colvin, Boone, IA,
and Chuck (Diane) Obe, FL;
along with numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Jon was preceded in death by his parents; his father and mother-in-law, Reaves “Shorty” (Illene) Holbrook; his sister-in-law, Diane Obe; and his brothers-in-law, Marty Holbrook, Bo Holbrook, Paul Holbrook, Chuck Holbrook and John Holbrook.
Jon’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill, especially Michelle Dura and the 3rd floor nurses and CNAs for all of their professional and compassionate care. We would also like to extend a personal and heartfelt thank you to Cyndi Neal and Ronnie Sullivan for all of their love and support over the years.
Online condolences may be shared with Jon’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com
Per Jon’s request, there will be no public services held.
John and I were pretty good friends and he will be missed I never knew he was that big into music he kind of surprised me when I was over there visiting with my wife, I lost touch with a lot of friends when we moved to Chicago and I started 10th grade there is a sophomore, I was able to find him on Facebook along with some other school friends for my youth so I was glad to do that and we did Converse on Facebook and privately
The gifts of Jon reached both Maryann and me. I often tell friends of his talents in lending beauty through music as Maryann conducted a UU Service. We also experienced the gentle critique of a religious service, a book or a social situation that convinced Maryann that Jon was a true servant in the spiritual sense and convinced me that Jon was a true friend. He is missed already!
So sad to see Jon’s obituary today. I worked with him for many years at Mercy. He always did a great job and was a pleasure to be around. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Mike loved playing music with Jon and the two had such respect for each other, with a good dash of dry humor.
My love and thoughts are with you all, as I know Jon was loved by many.
I walked into Lena‘s lounge in Dubuque. I wanted to check out the 9 foot tables because nobody has 9 foot tables anymore. Back in the corner was an old boy playing pool. I walked up to him and asked him how the tables played. He said they’re a little tight. Would you like to play a game and I did That was only a year and a half ago and I became really good friends with Jon ever since that day. He was a great guy and I will miss him dearly. Prayers to all the family and friends.
Condolences to Jon’s Family. Jon was a such a nice guy. A solid and fun percussionist, I enjoyed playing drums and sharing the stage with him. He will be missed.
Tammy,
Sandy Nickel here—one more person whose life Jon has touched.
Back in the day, when a group of UUs decided to learn to play djembes, Jon, the most (read “only”) prolific drummer was our leader of sorts. He was always patient and willing to share his musical talents. . . and generous in taxiing a small group of us to Platteville and back for our weekly drumming lessons. So the fun of our outings was door to door.
Fond memories of quite long ago. I had no idea he was suffering and gravely ill. I am so very sorry for your loss.
We loved Jon and enjoyed the fun we had as a foursome. Loved his music and his hat collection. We’re very sorry for your loss.