Henry “Joe” Joseph Vandermillen, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on April 13, 2026, at Luther Manor–Hillcrest.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A sharing time will be held at 2:45 p.m., prior to the visitation.

Joe was born on October 16, 1946, the son of Hank and Veronica (Noonan) Vandermillen. He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Gabriel, on November 28, 1964.

Joe was a peddler for the Dubuque Packing Co. He later worked as a salesman for various companies and wrapped up his career transporting precious cargo at Mt. St. Francis.

Joe was a friend to everyone: the greeter and conversationalist at every social event he attended. He enjoyed catching up with acquaintances from every walk of life. Joe was happiest when spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy; his children, Carrie (Mike) Kirby, Jeff (Sheila) Vandermillen, Melissa (Dan) McDermott, and Mike (Tara) Vandermillen; his grandchildren, Tony (Marissa) Kirby, Christopher (Mary Ruth Jackson) Kirby, Kyle (Cassie) Steil, Michael Vandermillen Jr., Danny McDermott, Jimmy McDermott, Dakota Vandermillen, and Dawson; his great-grandchildren, Zoey and Owen Kirby, Sloane Steil, Jace and Liam Mellody, and Oakie; his brother, Jim Vandermillen; along with several in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Barney and Bea Gabriel; a daughter, Beth, in infancy; his granddaughter, Alicia Rose Vandermillen; his brothers, Ed, Michael (“Mick”), Don, and Ray; and his sister, Margy.

The family extends their gratitude to Finley Hospital, Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, and Obie’s Service Center. They also thank the many friends who were there for Joe and the family.