Charles Scheer

CHARLES SCHEER Cedar Rapids Charles L. Scheer, 89, passed away on Jan. 16, 2019, at home following a lengthy illness. Services will be held Tuesday, Jan. 22, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Visitation will be held one hour before the service. A private burial will follow at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Chuck was born Feb. 12, 1929, to Henry C. and Edith Scheer at Independence, Iowa. School years began in a country school at Jordan's Grove, then at Springville and West Branch schools. He married Jo Ann Rathje on Feb. 12, 1953, living briefly in California and Idaho, eventually settling in Cedar Rapids. They were longtime members of First Lutheran Church. Growing up on a farm, Chuck learned to hunt at an early age with his brothers, providing food for the family table. Developing a keen eye, he could spot wildlife before others even noticed. His hunting ability was well known. Chuck began a successful career in the insurance industry in 1959, retiring after 33 years. He was a hard worker, believing in a strong work ethic. After months of recovering from a near-fatal accident in 1976, he opted for a simpler life, wishing folks would just slow down. He was actively involved in Boy Scouts (Troop 33) for years and was a charter member of Linn County Pheasants Forever (Chapter 45). As a habitat chairman for many years, he was responsible for the ordering, delivery and planting of thousands of trees in Linn County. In later years, pond fishing became his favorite pastime. His love of the outdoors and nature was passed on to his family. Chuck also enjoyed cutting and delivering firewood, mowing the lawn, feeding the birds, playing cards, John Wayne movies, Burger King and hot chocolate. He was devoted to his family and will be greatly missed. Survivors include wife, Jo; daughter, Cyd (Craig); son, Jon (Bonny); grandsons, Cody (Suzie) and Danny; granddaughter, Mari; great-grandsons, Christopher, Luke and Jeremiah; brother, Richard (Donna); many nieces and nephews; and beloved dog, Beni. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Donald, Robert and Dorrance; and sisters, Delores, Geneva, Geraldine and Vanita. Special recognition goes to loyal friends Mike and Rocky for their kind and generous assistance during Chuck's illness. Also thanks to Lee, Ned and Larry, and to Linda for her special homemade goodies. The family also would like to express gratitude to the Mercy Hospice staff for their wonderful care and concern of Chuck, along with special thanks to Kim, Rita and Debbie. A special heartfelt thank-you to Mom for her unending, selfless care of Dad throughout his extended illness, which allowed him to spend these last months in the comfort of their home and peaceful surroundings. We can never thank you enough. Love, Cyd, Jon and their families. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Cedar Valley Humane Society or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.