Bessie Lou Stusak

1928 - 2021

BESSIE LOU STUSAK Cedar Rapids Bessie Lou Stusak was born on April 11, 1928, to Patruna (Bessie) and Charles Rudzinski. She peacefully went to heaven on Jan. 5, 2021, with her children by her side. There will be a private Mass at a later date. She enjoyed growing up with her older sister Ida, in a brick house on Memorial Drive. She participated in many school activities. She graduated from Franklin High School in 1946. Her best friend was MaryAnn Stusak Lorenzen. They remained best friends throughout their lives. Bessie had three children with Richard "Jake" Stusak, Michael (Connie) Stusak, Debra Handley and Linda (Michael) Craig. She was grandma to Jennifer Craig, Theresa (Matt) Dixon, Christy Handley, Jake Handley (Sam Locsin) and Laura (Zach) Martin. Bessie's great-grandchildren are Kaleb (Maegan), Morgan, Katelynn, Briella and a baby due soon. She had a variety of jobs, including Drapela's Grocery Store, Square D, Armstrong's, Kirlin's and Tanager Place. The job she loved best was raising her three children. She loved them greatly and it was demonstrated daily in many large and small ways. She taught them about faith, friendship and family by her example. She also loved the many dogs that became a part of her family. The value of hard work, kindness to others, and devotion to God were paramount in all she did throughout her life. Bessie was a devout Catholic. She was a lifetime member of All Saints Parish and volunteered for many events and programs there. Bessie was a superior baker. Her desserts and cookie trays were enjoyed by many relatives and friends. She was an avid gardener, as well. Multitudes of plants and flowers graced her back yard. She never tired of watching nature out her window: birds, squirrels and the changing seasons. Bessie was a talented artist, creating many blown egg displays, sketches and posters/paintings over the years. She was an expert at decorating her home with precision for each holiday. Christmas was her favorite time of year as it brought friends and family together in celebration. She had a grand collection of Hallmark Christmas ornaments. Many thanks to our relatives and friends, as well as, the staff members at All Saints, Northbrook Manor, St. Pius and UnityPoint Hospice for all their support of Bessie over these past few years. Mom will be remembered for her deep abiding faith and quiet strength through adversities. She was patient, fair and supportive always. We have been blessed to have experienced her loving and gentle nature for so many years. She was loved beyond measure and will always be in our hearts.