Dwayne "Cusey" Brecht

Marengo-Dwayne Leo Brecht, 96, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dwayne, known to many as "Cusey," was born July 14, 1929, in Norway, Iowa, the son of Gilbert Joseph and Rosetta (Frese) Brecht. He attended Iowa County Country schools and graduated from Norway High School in 1947. He served in the beloved Marine Corp from 1951-1953 during the Korean Conflict.

Cusey married Mary (Gerard) on September 27, 1955, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Norway, Iowa. The couple then moved to Marengo, and he worked at Amana Refrigeration for 43 years. He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Marengo; The Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Order of Foresters, and Marengo American Legion Post 76.

He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. However, he could be found cheering on the Chicago Cubs as long as they weren't playing the Cards. If you weren't friends with Cusey, you soon would be. He was quite the conversationalist. Cusey was also a beautiful example of living the Catholic faith. His deep love for God and for others was a powerful witness and a guiding model for his family and for all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary "Moodgie," of 70 years, their three daughters, Angie Huebner, Jackie Conrad of Marengo, and Mary Jo (Gerry) Beeler of Kalona. Grandchildren: Hollie (Chris) Waterbury of North Liberty, Jessica (Roman) DeBrower of Williamsburg, Stephanie (Kyle) Sears of Robins, Jayson Huebner of Marengo, Joey (Jamile) Conrad of Solon, Stacey (Jason) Cavey of Kalona. Great Grandchildren: Ellie, Ajay, & Andon Waterbury, Dalaney & Tatum Debrower, Luke, Benjamin & Sophia Sears, Gerald Huebner, Jaxton Conrad, Charlotte and Caitlin Cavey. Cusey is also survived by many nieces, nephews, neighbors, and special friends.

Dwayne was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Dolores "Janie" McGurk.

A Rosary will be prayed on September 16, at 3:30 p.m. at Powell Funeral Home in Marengo, followed by a visitation from 4:00–7:00 p.m.

A celebration and Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, September 17, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Marengo. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Marengo, with military honors.

Powell Funeral Home, Marengo, will be in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com. Rest in peace Cusey, you will be deeply missed.