RoseAnn Schnack

 RoseAnn Jean Schnack was born on March 24, 1933, the daughter of Ray and Dorothy (Leinen) Williams in Panama, Iowa. RoseAnn's educational journey began at a country school near Persia, and she proudly graduated from Persia High School with the class of 1951. As the eldest girl in her family, she carried the responsibility of guiding her younger siblings. Her nurturing spirit and sense of duty forged a strong bond among her family, who looked up to her in many aspects of life.

 After completing her education, she transitioned into a position at Farner’s Department Store in Harlan, where her hard work and dedication were evident. It was during her employment at Farner’s that fate introduced her to a young gentleman who found himself captivated by her charm. His thoughtful gesture of purchasing a comb to gain her attention is a reminder of RoseAnn’s warm presence and the gentle love that surrounded her. 

 On February 19, 1955, RoseAnn married Ernest “Ernie” Schnack at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan, Iowa and they were blessed with four children: Randy, Jayne, Galen and Susie. RoseAnn dedicated much of her early life to raising her family, providing warm meals and a nurturing environment. Once her children were in school, she joined her husband at Schnack Auto Parts, where she managed the bookkeeping. Her commitment to her family laid the foundation for the values that would carry through generations. In addition to her professional pursuits, RoseAnn embraced her role as a caregiver when she opened an in-home daycare, welcoming children into her home with the same warmth she offered to her own family. As her children grew older, she found joy in her work as a cook at Harlan Community Schools, where she spent many years serving meals to students, often her grandchildren, and staff.

 RoseAnn was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church and the Women’s Circle and was proud to work with the American Legion Auxiliary. Over the years, RoseAnn and Ernie, enjoyed dancing together especially to the Polka. A wonderful cook and baker, RoseAnn's Thanksgiving dressing became a cherished family tradition. Visitors to her home were always greeted with warmth, good food and lasting memories. She took pride in spoiling her children and grandchildren with treats and recipes that will be fondly remembered. 

 She found joy in tending to her flowers, counted cross stitch, sewing and various crafts. Above all, RoseAnn adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing the moments spent with them and the legacy of love she imparted. She took pride in being a supporter of her children and grandchildren, always attending their various events and milestones. Her gentle spirit, caring heart, and devotion to family will be profoundly missed, leaving behind memories that will continue to inspire and comfort those she leaves behind.

 RoseAnn passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Hansen House in Harlan, Iowa at the age of 91 years, four months and 27 days. 

 RoseAnn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ernie Schnack in 2014; and brothers: Kenny Williams, Ramon Williams, Donald Williams and Neil Williams. She is survived by her children: Randy (Teresa) Schnack of Oakland, Jayne (Mark) Kohorst of Harlan, Galen (JoAnn) Schnack of Westphalia and Susie (Mark) Kloewer of Defiance; twelve grandchildren: Joni (Luke) Houser and Roger (Paula) Schnack all of Oakland, Jennifer (TJ) Vincent of Bennington, Nebraska, Sara (Justin) Dopheide of Ankeny, Megan (Chad) Husman of Aurelia, Carl (Jill) Schnack of Carroll, Janelle (Andy) Sulhoff of Coralville, Katie (Kyle) Haake of North Liberty, Ranae Schnack of Austin, Texas, Nicolle (Brandon) Frain of Macedonia, Brian (Jessica) Kloewer of Defiance and Curtis (Brooklynn) Schnack of Dunlap; 23 great-grandchildren; sisters: Betty Sebern of Denison, Colleen Nicholas of San Jacinto, California, Donna Rasmussen of Harlan, Janet Hansen of Denison; brothers: Phil Williams of Independence, Missouri and Dally Williams of Denison; and many other family and friends.

 Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Harlan with visitation held prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the Harlan Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family for a donation to be made in her name at the Harlan Community Schools.