With heavy hearts and sincere remembrance, we announce the passing of Scott Lynn Kilburg, a beloved husband, father, friend, and community leader. Scott’s departure leaves a void that will never be filled, but his legacy endures in the memories he created with family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched. This obituary seeks to honor and commemorate his life, highlighting the moments that made Scott an extraordinary individual.
Early Life and Education of Scott Lynn Kilburg
Scott Lynn Kilburg was born on August 14, 1965, in Dubuque, Iowa. He was the third of five children born to Raymond and Linda Kilburg, who instilled strong family values, a love for learning, and a commitment to honesty and hard work in all of their children.
Raised in a close-knit community, Scott attended Maquoketa Valley Schools where he first demonstrated the leadership qualities that would later define his personal and professional life. He excelled academically and was active in extracurricular clubs, showing early inclinations for civic responsibility and teamwork.
Following high school, Scott went on to attend The University of Northern Iowa, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. His time in college not only paved the way for a successful career but also fostered lifelong friendships and personal growth.
Career and Professional Life
Scott Lynn Kilburg’s professional journey was marked by integrity, dedication, and leadership. He began his career at a local accounting firm in Dubuque before transitioning into the public sector. Over time, Scott ascended to become a Chief Financial Officer at a regional healthcare organization, where he served for more than 15 years.
Throughout his career, he was known for his meticulous attention to detail, sound financial judgment, and unwavering commitment to ethics. Hundreds of colleagues remember Scott as a supportive mentor and a consummate professional who led by example.
His expertise and transparency earned him recognition in various local business journals and associations. Scott was a frequent speaker at industry seminars and volunteered his time offering financial advice to emerging local businesses.
Family Life and Personal Interests
Scott married the love of his life, Christine (née Barnes) Kilburg, in 1991. Their marriage was a shining example of mutual respect, devotion, and partnership. Together, they built a life centered around love, family, and shared values. They are the proud parents of three children: Michael, Emily, and Jenna.
Scott was a dedicated father who never missed an opportunity to attend his children’s school events, sports games, and music recitals. He took great pride in their accomplishments and supported them unconditionally in their pursuits.
In his free time, Scott enjoyed:
- Fishing on the Mississippi River with family and friends
- Woodworking projects in his garage workshop
- Volunteering at the local Rotary Club
- Coaching Little League Baseball
- Reading historical non-fiction books
Community Involvement and Legacy
Scott Lynn Kilburg was deeply involved in his community. He believed in the power of service and dedicated countless hours to initiatives that strengthened and uplifted those around him. He served on several community boards including:
- Dubuque Rotary Club – Treasurer and long-time member
- Habitat for Humanity – Project volunteer and fundraiser
- United Way of Dubuque – Campaign Chair for consecutive years
- St. John’s Lutheran Church – Council Member and Sunday School teacher
His philanthropic efforts were rooted in genuine compassion. He organized annual food drives, sponsored educational scholarships, and was instrumental in launching financial literacy workshops for underprivileged youth.
Scott’s legacy lives on in the people he helped and the projects he ignited. Many community leaders cite his example as a foundation for their own charitable efforts. His humility, compassion, and unwavering moral compass made him a respected and admired pillar of the community.
Final Days and Passing
Scott Lynn Kilburg courageously battled a rare form of cancer for the last year of his life. Despite the challenges, he remained hopeful, strong, and inspiring to all around him. He passed away peacefully on January 12, 2024, surrounded by family, with his favorite Johnny Cash song playing softly in the background.
Even in his final moments, Scott offered words of wisdom to his children and comfort to his wife. He faced life’s last chapter with the same bravery and grace that characterized his entire life.
Tributes and Condolences
Tributes have poured in from across the country from friends, colleagues, neighbors, and acquaintances sharing heartfelt stories about Scott’s kindness, wisdom, and integrity. Highlights from public messages include the following sentiments:
- “Scott was a beacon of hope and support in our community. He always knew how to listen and lend a hand.” – Ellen Thompson
- “I learned so much from Scott. He was a mentor, a friend, and a model for how to live with purpose.” – James Rivera
- “His laugh, his advice, and his generosity will never be forgotten. We’ve lost a true angel.” – The Morrison Family
The family invites friends and admirers to leave their condolences and memories online at the official memorial page created in Scott’s honor.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
The memorial service for Scott Lynn Kilburg will be held as follows:
- Date: Saturday, January 20, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Location: St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dubuque, IA
A private burial service for close family will follow immediately at the family plot in Mount Calvary Cemetery. A luncheon and celebration of life reception will be hosted by the Rotary Club at the Downtown Community Hall.
Honoring Scott’s Memory
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Scott’s name to one of the following organizations:
The family also encourages everyone to carry forward Scott’s spirit by volunteering in their communities, mentoring young people, and embracing the everyday opportunities to make a positive difference.
Conclusion
Though words can never fully encapsulate a life as meaningful as Scott Lynn Kilburg’s, this obituary offers a glimpse into a man whose life was defined by love, purpose, and selflessness. Through his roles as a father, husband, friend, leader, and humanitarian, Scott showed us all what it means to live a life of value.
May his memory be eternal, and may we honor him by living our lives with the same love, sincerity, and dignity that he shared with us every day.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
