Thomas A. “Tom” Welu, age 85, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on February 1, 2023, at Luther Manor.  To honor Tom’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on September 18, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Anton and Catherine (Broll) Welu.  Tom was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School before going off to honorably serve his country in the Korean War as a Corporal in the U.S. Army.  Upon returning home, Tom started Tom Welu Contractors and spent over 45 years in the construction business.  Tom was a skilled carpenter and many of his projects can still be seen today all around the area.  Tom met and married the love of his life, Joan Kastle, and the two were blessed with many wonderful years together before she was sadly called home ahead of him on October 13, 2006.  Tom’s free-time mainly revolved around cars, collecting, restoring, and sharing his craft with others to enjoy.  He was a mainstay at the Kat Cruise for many years and his 1949 Mercury, Blue Velvet, was surely his pride and joy.  We will miss Tom more than he could know, but are beyond grateful for the abundance of memories he leaves behind at the same time.  Thank you, Tom, for all that you’ve given to the world around you and may peace be yours until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his two children,

Tim Welu, Dubuque, IA,

and Toni (Dan) Graebel, Dubuque, IA;

his three grandchildren;

his siblings,

David (Carol) Welu, Dubuque, IA,

Richard (Dixie) Welu, East Dubuque, IL,

and Joan (Doug) Mugehe, Cleveland, OH;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joan E. Welu; his daughter, Gabrielle Welu; and his sister, Janet Welu.

Tom’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Tom, and his family.

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