Thomas "Tom" A. McMahon

Thomas A. McMahon, 78, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

Visitation will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1870 St. Ambrose Street in Dubuque, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church on Thursday with Rev. Steve Rosonke officiating. A private burial will be held at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Tom was born on February 17, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Harold V. and Grace C. (Riley) McMahon. Tom attended St. Anthony Grade School, Wahlert High School, and Loras College.  He was a friend to many and had a special talent for keeping in contact with his Wahlert classmates to plan reunions of the class of ‘65.  

A lifelong Dubuquer and proud of his Irish heritage, Tom was an excellent cook, talented woodworker, Hawkeye fan, and he enjoyed Sunday mornings on the golf course with his favorite pals. He and Diane also helped those in need in many quiet ways. Tom was a devoted dad and grandpa who deeply loved being with his family. 

Tom worked at the Dubuque Packing Company until it closed in 2001 and completed his career at Nordstrom Distribution Center.

He is survived by son, Sam (Julie) of Milwaukee; daughter, Leah (Joe) Specht of Dubuque; son, Pete (Katy) of Ames and grandchildren Evie, Gus, Maggie, Waylon, and Theo; sisters Mary Ann (George) Knight of Warwick, NY, and Eileen (Steve Karbon) of St. Paul, MN; best friend, Diane Muir; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Harold McMahon, sister, Jeanne, and infant sister, Rita.

A sincere thank you to the caring professionals of Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Nursing Home, and the many friends and family who supported Tom on this journey, especially Jay and Mary Horn who brought food and friendship each week.

Donations may be made in Tom’s honor to Hospice of Dubuque, 1670 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52002. 

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