nor of his wife, Betty. "Smitty" was a Christian, loved his family and was grateful for dear friends. He had a great sense of humor and outstanding grandchildren. He hoped to make a difference in peoples' lives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Madeline, two older brothers, Dick and Jim, and his beloved spouse, Betty. He is survived by a daughter, Dawn (Mike) and son, David, and his two adored grandchildren, Heather and Matthew, along with two brothers-in-law, a sister-in-law and five special nieces and nephews. Dad was a mentor to many, an inspiration to others, a pillar in the community. He loved biking, golfing, gardening, reading nonfiction, his nightly movie and "nips" (the candy, that is), long drives, winter vacations in FLA, family reunions and watching his kids and grandkids interact. He enjoyed time spent with family- especially that shared at the Water's special Minocqua home and storytelling on the sun porch- which Dawn recently discovered was passed down from his Dad. He was the most supportive and proud Dad and Grandpa that anyone could ask for. He was able to stop alcohol from taking over his life; however he was unable to do the same with leukemia. He died comfortably and peacefully with his best bud and son, David at his side. David and he saw each other most days since mom died and this will leave a huge void in David's life. His legacy will live on through David and all of the people he has touched over the years. A special thank you to all of the caring staff at Sunnybrook assisted living and the amazing staff of 4JCP at University of Iowa Hospitals. The love, care and reassurance they provided enabled him to die with dignity and peace. For this gift, we will forever be grateful. Rest In Peace "Old Geezer", Pops, Smitty, Dad, Gpa. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2019, at Grace Lutheran Church, 2107 Cedar St, Muscatine. Friends may call from 3:30 until 4:30 on Friday, May 3, 2019, or from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at the church. Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church Ministry of Literacy or The Leukemia Lyphoma Society. The Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Ralph J Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home
Muscatine, IA 52761
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