Richard Lee "Dick" Ostert

Richard L. "Dick" Ostert, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Sunday morning, February 1, 2026, at his home in rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Born on April 3, 1935, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Louis and Beulah (Dague) Ostert, Dick's life was a testament to his dedication to his family, work, and community.

Growing up in Fulton and Dubuque, Dick was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1952. He embarked on a life of love and commitment when he married Betty Jane Buck on April 25, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa. Together, they welcomed four children into the world: Gary, Sherry, Terry, and Tina. After the passing of his beloved Betty in 2004, Dick was fortunate to find love once more and married Susan Schoenig Behrens Engelkins on July 23, 2005, blending their families and hearts.

Dick dedicated over 50 years to farming, nurturing the land with the same care he showed his family. His career at John Deere Dubuque spanned 30 years, where he spent 17 years as a devoted full-time union representative and 13 as a skilled pipe fitter before retiring on August 31, 1990. His commitment to his colleagues and the labor movement was unwavering, and his contributions to the workplace were deeply valued.

His service extended beyond his professional life. Dick proudly served in the National Guard for nine years, demonstrating his love for his country. His civic engagement was evident through his roles as the Maquoketa Township Trustee, Democratic chairman, and a longstanding member of the Jackson County Condemnation Board.

A man of faith, Dick was an active member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. He had served as Chairman and Vice Chairman, and his involvement in various committees over the years helped to strengthen the church community.

Dick's legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Susan Ostert of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Sherry (Larry) Keeney of Elwood, IA, Terry (Cathy) Ostert of Garwin, IA, and Tina (Dion) Brundage of Maquoketa, IA; step-children, Kurt (Cara) Behrens of Norwalk, IA, and Joshua Engelkins of Dubuque, IA; 10 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Dina (Larry) Pickel of Dickeyville, WI, and Judy (Larry) Marcue of Hazel Green, WI, along with many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, his first wife Betty, son Gary, brothers Robert and Jim, and sisters Verdina, Joan, Lois, and Patty.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, February 5, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 11 A.M. at the church. Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.