Brian A. Dierks, 49, of Clinton, Iowa passed away following a brief illness at OSF St Francis hospital in Peoria, IL on Friday, March 20th. A devoted son, loving brother, and proud uncle, Brian was affectionately known to his close friends as “Pup”. He was a man whose loyalty to his roots and his passions never wavered.
Born in Clinton, Iowa to Jerry and Karen Dierks, Brian was a graduate of Clinton High School. He went on to attend the University of Iowa, where he fell in love with the spirit of Iowa City, making it his home and place of work for many years, before eventually returning to his hometown.
A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, he spent decades “never giving up hope”, a devotion that was famously rewarded in 2016 when he witnessed the Cubs win the World Series. He also shared his father’s love for the Iowa Hawkeyes, spending countless hours cheering them on together.
Some of Brian’s fondest memories were rooted in the outdoors. He grew up hunting and fishing, but his heart truly belonged to the family cabin along the banks of the Mississippi. It was there, surrounded by his large extended family, that he developed a deep appreciation for nature and the simple joy of a day spent on the water.
Brian is survived by his mother, Karen; his sister, Jen Belanger; and his beloved niece and nephews, Sydney, Tyler, and Alex to whom he was lovingly known as “Uncle Bubba”. He is also survived by close friends, aunts, uncles, and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry; his maternal and paternal grandparents; his brother-in-law, Jerry Wier; and several aunts and uncles.
Per Brian’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and no formal services will be held. His family will celebrate his life privately, remembering him by the water at the cabin. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.