Rex A. Rambo

Rex Arthur Rambo passed away peacefully on the morning of October 25th, surrounded by his loving family.
He is survived by his children Yvette (Tim), Suzette (Chad), Brigette (Chet), Nanette, and Rex II (Danielle); his eleven cherished grandchildren Timothy James, Alexandra (Benjamin), McKenna, Aidan, Kayla, Peyton, Kylie, Susanella, Tatum, Rex III, and Annaleaha; and his siblings Scott Rambo (Nadine), Kay Stroehle (Tom), Laura Dodds (Norman), Mary Zobac (Karl), and Roberta Donald ("Birdie").
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Mont Rambo and Margaret Reed, and by his beloved wife of 59 years, Susie Rambo.
Rex was born on October 12, 1941, in Keosauqua, Iowa. Known affectionately as "Artie" during his school years, he was bright, determined, and full of life. A proud member of the FFA, serving as First Vice President for the class of 1959–1960, he was known for his infectious smile, quick wit, and drive to make something of himself.
Early in his career, while working in various sales and marketing roles, Rex met the love of his life, Susie. They were married on April 2, 1965, and began a beautiful journey together that would span nearly six decades.
Rex built a long and successful career, spending 29 years with Sears before serving as Vice President for Michaels and Lechmere (a division of Montgomery Ward), and later as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of A.C. Moore. His leadership, insight, and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.
After retiring, Rex and Susie divided their time between Cave Creek, Arizona, and their hometown of Keosauqua, Iowa. Rex enjoyed golfing, reading, swimming, playing cards, and watching football and golf-always finding time to appreciate the beauty of the Cave Creek mountains and the Iowa cornfields he grew up with.
Together, Rex and Susie fulfilled their dream of traveling the world-visiting Spain, Africa, Italy, Ireland, Alaska, and the British Virgin Islands. Their shared love of golf took them to some of the most remarkable courses across the globe.
Rex was Susie's best friend and devoted husband, a loving father, and an adoring "Papa" to his grandchildren. He gave great hugs and even better advice. With his intellect, humor, and charisma, he could command a room-but it was his kindness and love for his family that defined him most.
His presence filled every space he entered. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled-but his love, laughter, and legacy will live on in all who knew him.
Funeral services honoring his life will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Keosauqua United Methodist Church with Pastor Mary Kathryn Hart officiating. Burial will be in the Purdom Cemetery immediately following. Visitation will held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Keosauqua, IA beginning at 2:00 p.m. with the family present to greet friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Rex's honor may be directed to the Purdom Cemetery Association and mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.