Richard "Big Mike" Hughes

Richard Michael “Big Mike” Hughes, 78, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Richard was born on December 27, 1947, in Cascade, Iowa, the son of Martin Leo and Mary (Picary) Hughes. He attended school in Delwood and proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. His military service was a source of great pride throughout his life, and he remained deeply patriotic and devoted to his fellow veterans.

Richard was first united in marriage to Rita Franzen, and three children were born to this union: Rick (Kay) Hughes, Curt (Valerie) Hughes, and Angie Brewster. He later married Jean Stevens in 1986, and together they shared many years of life and memories.

A hardworking man, Richard spent much of his life as a mechanic and was the owner and operator of Big Mike’s Lube Service. He was a longtime member of the American Legion and faithfully served as Sergeant of the Guard for the Color Guard, participating in countless military honors ceremonies and proudly honoring those who served before him.

Racing was a passion and a big part of Richard’s life. He also enjoyed bowling, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Affectionately known as “Big Mike,” he was respected for his strong work ethic, dedication to his family, love of country, and commitment to helping fellow veterans.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Rick (Kay) Hughes, Curt (Valerie) Hughes, and Angie Brewster; his stepchildren, Kelli Maranville and Joseph (Rita) Stevens; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; his sisters, Linda (Jerry) House of Delmar, Iowa, and Sharon Keuter; his sister-in-law Virginia Hughes, his brother, Tony Hughes; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Hughes; his parents, Martin Leo and Mary (Picary) Hughes; and his son-in-law, Jake Brewster; sisters; Irene (Wayne) Clause, Charlene (Pat) Cavanagh, Terese (Bill) Cavanagh; Brothers Tom (Aletha) Hughes, Mick Hughes; sister-in-law Shirley Hughes; brother-in-law Duane Kueter and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Dawson Funeral Services in Maquoketa. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Dawson Funeral Services in Maquoketa. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Delmar.

Richard’s life was marked by service—to his country, his community, and his family. He leaves behind a legacy of patriotism, hard work, loyalty, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Cards of condolence may be mailed to Dawson Funeral Services, P.O. Box 258, Wyoming, Iowa 52362.

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