Douglas J. McGuine

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

Douglas John “Digger” McGuine, of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away on June 21, 2025, surrounded by love and laughter—the very way he lived his life. Known for his unmistakable humor, contagious laugh, and signature phrase “cock-a-doodle-do,” he never missed a chance to stir the pot or lovingly aggravate someone just enough to make them smile.

Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Iowa. Visitation will continue Thursday morning at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Guttenberg, Iowa, prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Guttenberg, Iowa, with burial following in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Rev. Paul Kwaku Ameyaw will officiate.

Born on February 16, 1941, Digger grew up with two brothers and two sisters, creating a childhood full of stories that became family legends. He attended St. Mary’s School in Guttenberg, where he graduated—and likely left a lasting impression on every teacher along the way. From a young age, he shared a special bond with his father, who introduced him to coin collecting—an interest he carried throughout his life. He also developed a deep passion for collecting guns, a hobby that matched his sharp eye and steady hand. 

After high school, under the encouragement of his mother—and perhaps the authorities—Digger joined the United States Army. He proudly served for three years as a Gunner while stationed in France. His military service only deepened his lifelong interest in firearms, and many were fortunate enough to witness his impressive marksmanship. 

When he returned home, he reunited with the love of his life, Jerri Ludovissy. They married on May 17, 1969, and together built a home filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. They raised three children in Guttenberg: Kristine (Milo) Lucas, Kelly (Paul) Meyers, and Kiley (Grace) McGuine. Digger worked at John Deere and Celotex before taking a leap of faith in 1987 to purchase Moxie’s Tap in Guttenberg—a beloved local bar that remains in the family today. There, he shared his gift for storytelling, laughter, and good company with everyone who walked through the door. By his side through many chapters of life was his loyal dog, Wrigley, who brought him daily joy and companionship. Equally close was his best friend, Roger Bailey—the two were inseparable, always together and always up to something. Digger also shared a special bond with longtime friend and bartender Tracy Hinzman, who he loved and treated as family. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Jerri; children: Kristine (Milo) Lucas, Kelly (Paul) Meyers, and Kiley (Grace) McGuine; and his adored grandchildren: Brittany (Phil) Rausch of Guttenberg, Ryan (Morgan Bohr) Lucas of Altoona, Brooke Lucas of Bettendorf, Jacob Lucas of Guttenberg, Marissa (Kalen) Backes of Amana, Tristan Meyers of Holy Cross, Treyton (Sydney Bonert) Meyers of Epworth, Gabriella Meyers of Guttenberg, Brody, Sienna, and Kade McGuine of Guttenberg; he also adored his five great-grandchildren: Axel, Eden, and Luka Rausch; Quinn Backes; and Weston Meyers. Digger is survived by his brother: Kenneth (Sue) McGuine and Tim (Penny) McGuine; his sister, Toni Boardman, all of Guttenberg; sisters-in-law: Jane Johnson, Julie (Art) Willie, Cindy (Pat) Wachendorf, and Dixie (Paul) Beckman; along with many nieces and nephews who will also cherish his memory. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Anna Mae McGuine; his in-laws, Francis (Duke) and Louise Ludovissy; his sister, Mary McGuine; sister-in-law, Connie (Jack) Harbaugh; brother-in-law, John Johnson; and nephews: Jackie Harbaugh and Nicholas Wachendorf. 

Whether you knew him as a husband, father, grandfather, friend, veteran, or simply as “Digger”—the guy who made you laugh until you cried—he was truly one of a kind. A character who filled every room with humor, heart, and just the right amount of trouble. 

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the joy of knowing him.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family. Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.