Robert Thomas Donner

Robert (Bob) T. Donner, 75, of Dubuque passed away June 16, 2024, at home after a courageous battle with cancer. His family was by his side. 

Bob was born on October 29, 1948, to Irwin (Doc) and Lucille (Reilly) Donner in Dubuque, IA.  He graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1966.  Bob worked for the Dubuque Packing Company for thirty plus years, and later worked for AY McDonald, until retirement in 2012.

He was a member of the Dubuque American Legion Post 6 and was in the Military Reserves. Bob was an avid fisherman, hunter, and longtime member of Pheasants Forever. He also loved gardening and tending to his flowers.  Bob was an active member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral and served as a Eucharistic minister for many years.

Family was one of the most important parts of his life. He would attend as much as he could for his grandchildren and support them at all events. Bob was very devoted to his mother over the years and loved her dearly.  In his free time, he enjoyed cheering on the NY Yankees, Indiana Hoosiers, Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers.

Bob is survived by his children, Robert (Laura) Donner of Dubuque, Tara Bellman of Waukee, IA, and Amy Donner of Johnston, IA; son-in-law, Chris Dembinski of Waukee, IA; grandchildren, Mason, Bella, Ben, Kile, Grace, and Preston. He is also survived by his siblings, Bill (Jan) Donner of Rhinelander, WI, and Linda Sidney of Apple Valley, MN.  He was preceded in death by his parents Irwin (Doc) & Lucille Donner.

Robert’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris, for the compassionate care given to him these last several months. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

A Robert Donner Memorial Fund has been established.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 6 of Dubuque and the Iowa Army National Guard.  The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.