Dorothy J. Schneller's Obituary
Dorothy J. Schneller, 86, of Camanche passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at Genesis Medical Center - East in Davenport, Iowa.
Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 26, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Camanche, Iowa. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery with her grandchildren serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be Sunday, February 25, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Camanche Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory.
Dorothy JoAnn Stegemann was born June 1, 1937 in Schleswig, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Edna (Volkmann) Stegemann. She graduated from Schleswig High School in 1955, holding the position of Class President. Dorothy pursued her passion for education, earning a teaching certificate from Buena Vista University and later a bachelor’s degree from Westmar University. During her college years, she worked as a waitress at her aunt’s restaurant, where she met the love of her life, Ronald “Ron” Schneller. They married December 27, 1957, and raised two daughters together, Rhonda and Brenda.
Dorothy dedicated 36 years of her life to teaching elementary school students. Her tenure included Ida Grove Elementary, Remsen Union Elementary, and Camanche Elementary, where she served as a first-grade and kindergarten teacher for 24 years. Additionally, she took on the role of President within the Camanche Education Association (CEA) and held membership in the National Education Association (NEA).
Beyond the classroom, Dorothy's talents were as diverse as they were abundant. She demonstrated exceptional skill in the kitchen, with her recipes for German pancakes, banana bread, and potato salad achieving legendary status within her family. Dorothy also found immense joy in playing the accordion, often beginning her practice sessions with the familiar notes of "On Top of Old Smokey." Her nimble fingers equally excelled at crocheting and sewing. She poured her heart into creating beautiful pieces to share with others.
Dorothy’s passions extended into various organizations, including Red Hat Club, Ladies Lunch Club, and Delta Kappa Gamma. Her faith played a central role in her life. She was an active member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church and involved with United Methodist Women (UMW). She contributed significantly to the church’s activities, and she held dear the relationships she formed within her church community.
In retirement, Ron and Dorothy made lasting memories traveling together. Winters were spent at their second home in Tavares, Florida, basking in the sunshine and enjoying the company of friends. Summers back home were dedicated to tending to their bees, nurturing the garden, and canning the harvest. Outside of these commitments, the pair found pleasure in attending auctions and collecting vintage items. The hobby eventually blossomed into a small business called “Antiques With Class,” which they lovingly managed together for many years.
Above all, Dorothy’s greatest source of happiness was time spent with family. She celebrated their milestones and achievements, and supported their goals. Whether cheering from the sidelines at sporting events or providing encouragement in the quiet moments of everyday life, her presence was a reassuring constant. Dorothy’s boundless, unconditional love etched a lasting impression on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her, and her legacy will endure through the countless lives she touched.
She is survived by her husband, Ronald Schneller of Camanche; daughters: Rhonda (Kevin) Meyermann of Cordova, Illinois, and Brenda (Simon) Rasche of Fulton, Illinois; grandchildren: Sara (Nicklas) Jensen, Drew (Timothy) Nelesen, Shea (Storm) Schmitt, Brayton (Samantha) Rasche, and Griffin (Gregory) Wagner; great-grandchildren: Rowan, Raif, Quincy, Parker, Ryan, Wesley, Everett, Lennon, and Beck; sisters-in-law: Lois Jacobs, Patricia Schneller, and Myrna Schneller; and many nieces and nephews.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, sister LaVonna Wiese, and brother Clarence Wiese.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church or the American Heart Association in Dorothy’s honor.
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