Vincent B. Medinger

Vincent Benjamin Medinger, 95, of Maquoketa, Iowa, left this world gently, surrounded by love and memories, on Friday, September 19, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Dawson Funeral Services in Maquoketa. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Maquoketa. A luncheon will be held following the graveside service at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Maquoketa, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Those wishing to contribute to the meal may drop items off at the back entrance that morning, or bring them to Lura upon arrival.

Born and raised on a farm in Springbrook, Iowa, Vince carried the values of hard work, humility, and quiet strength throughout his life. He began working at Clinton Engines in 1951 before serving his country as a Corporal in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. After his service, he returned to Maquoketa and resumed work at Clinton Engines until 1966. He then joined Caterpillar in Mount Joy, where he spent 22½ years as a skilled tool and die maker until the plant closed in 1988. Even after retirement, Vince stayed active, working at the Maquoketa Country Club for another decade until officially retiring in 2001.

On October 18, 1958, Vince married the love of his life, Arla Faye Nienkark, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, officiated by Father Loosbrock. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Together they had five children; Steven, Theresa, Jeff, Craig and Michele. Vince was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Lost Nation American Legion Club.

After Arla’s passing eighteen years ago, Vince quietly stepped into a new role—not just as a father and grandfather, but as the keeper of rhythm in the family. He became the leader of the band, making sure the music of life, its laughter and traditions, never missed a beat.

He had a quiet charm and a twinkle in his eye, especially when sitting around a card table. He loved Euchre, Blackjack, and Rummy, and was known for the mischievous grin he’d flash when “going out” in Rummy before anyone else could lay down their cards. He found joy in the simple things—gardening, watching sports, spending time with friends and family, and listening to polka music every Sunday, a tradition that brought him comfort and cheer. But nothing brought him more pride than watching his grandchildren grow up and sharing stories from “the good old days.”

Those who carry his spirit forward include daughter, Michele Medinger of Maquoketa, Iowa; son, Craig (Christa) Medinger of Elmhurst, Illinois; and son, Jeff Medinger of Maquoketa, Iowa. He also leaves behind three beloved grandchildren—Kendall (18), Quentin (16), and Camille (9)—of Elmhurst, Illinois, and his sister Maxine Sullivan of Goose Lake, Iowa and several nieces and nephews. 

Vince was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Albert; his wife, Arla Faye; an infant daughter, Theresa; a son, Steven Medinger; two brothers, Vernon “Bud” Medinger and John Medinger; and four sisters, Florence Heiar, Mila Keil, Lillian Trenkamp, and Arlene Berger.

Vince’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched—with his steady presence, his gentle humor, and the quiet wisdom of a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and never missed a chance to play one more hand or tap his foot to a Sunday polka. He may have hung up his work boots, but he never stopped leading the band.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that you make a contribution to Sacred Heart Catholic church in Maquoketa, Iowa or the Lost Nation American Legion Club.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.