Dean Fenoglio

Dean Fenoglio, 70, of Maquoketa, Iowa, and formerly of Knoxville, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Monday morning, December 8, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

Ansel Dean Fenoglio was born on October 6, 1955, in Knoxville, Iowa, to Burt and Mildred (Hickman) Fenoglio.  He grew up in Knoxville and was a 1973 graduate of Knoxville, Iowa.

Dean's life was marked by his enduring love for his family and his passion for making the world a better place. He was the most kind and caring man, always putting everyone else’s needs above his own.  On December 7, 1996, he married the love of his life, Julie Nelson, in Knoxville. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Dean's legacy lives on through his devoted wife, Julie Fenoglio of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Justin (Jessica) Winter of Ottumwa, IA, Zach (fiancée Bailey) Winter of Knoxville, IA, and Kinsey (fiancé Nick) Fenoglio of Decatur, IL; his adored grandchildren, Jaxon, Charlotte, Brekyn, Emmylou Winter, and Charlotte Borgman; and his brother, Terry (Cindy) Fenoglio of Knoxville, IA. His parents and brothers, Bob and Charlie, preceded him in death.

Dean's professional life was characterized by his dedication to serving others. He retired after 33 years as an Occupational Therapy Assistant for the Veterans Administration Hospital in Knoxville, where he made a significant impact on the lives of countless veterans. In retirement, he continued to work for five years at WALMART in Pella, Iowa, and 4 years at Staples in Marcus, Iowa, where he was known for his kindness, friendly demeanor and strong work ethic.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dean was an avid sprint car racing fan. His love for racing was more than a hobby; it was a passion that fueled his spirit. He relished the thrill of the race, the roar of the engines, and the camaraderie of fellow racing enthusiasts. Dean also enjoyed working on sprint cars in his youth and shared his knowledge with others.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Dean's life will be held from 12 to 2 P.M. with a time of sharing beginning at 1:30 P.M. on Friday, December 12, 2025, in "The Bistro" at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Maquoketa Community Cupboard.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.