Steven Rutz, 78, of Farley, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 3–7 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Kramer‑Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville. Visitation will continue on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Dubuque, where a memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Steve was born on February 28, 1947, in Manila, Iowa, to Amos and Doris (Ramsey) Rutz. He grew up in Manning, where he graduated from Manning High School in 1965. Even as a young man, Steve embraced life with energy and enthusiasm—quarterbacking the football team, playing baseball, performing in drama, playing tuba in the band, and coaching the Manning swim team to an almost‑perfect three‑year record.

He continued his education at the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 1969. During his time there, he competed on the gymnastics team, specializing in trampoline, and later earned his master’s degree in school administration from UNI in 1975.

On September 11, 1971, Steve married Marilyn Engelken at St. Boniface in New Vienna. Their story began at Farley Junior High, where Marilyn worked as the school secretary and Steve taught math and PE while coaching football, track, and wrestling. Their partnership became the foundation of a beautiful life together.

Steve dedicated 39 years to education, shaping countless students and communities. He continued serving the Western Dubuque Community School District as an Assistant High School Principal and athletic director in Cascade. He also guided students as Student Council Advisor, traveling with them to national conventions. Over the years, he served as principal at Cascade and Bernard Elementary Schools, with additional roles at Dyersville Elementary and Epworth Early Childhood. After retiring in 2004, he continued his commitment to education in East Dubuque schools.

Service to others was woven into Steve’s character. He was a charter member and first president of the Cascade Lions Club, helped build Habitat for Humanity homes in Dubuque, traveled twice to Biloxi after Hurricane Katrina, assisted with tornado cleanup in Parkersburg, served on church council, and contributed his time on the Jo Daviess County Supervisors board.

Sports were a lifelong passion. Steve officiated wrestling for 29 years, but track and field held his heart. For 50 years, he served as a track official at every level—from junior high meets to NCAA championships. In 2018, he fulfilled a dream when he was invited to serve as a starter at the Drake Relays.

Outside of his many commitments, Steve embraced life’s joys. He loved golfing, playing chess, skydiving, researching his family genealogy, riding his Harley, attending concerts and plays, and never turned down a good card game. His quick wit and warm sense of humor were constants—gifts he shared generously with everyone around him.

Steve’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn; his children Troy (Anita) of Johnston, Stephanie (Adam) Fuller of Pleasant Hill, Jill of Grimes, and Julie of Cascade; and his grandchildren Jack and Kristin Rutz and Brynn, Cohen, and Shae Fuller. He is also survived by his siblings Bruce, Kent (Beth), Sue (Jay) Coon, and Karl (Donna); his sisters‑ and brothers‑in‑law Sharon and Duane Petsche, Bonnie and Kenny Schroeder, Jane and Phil DeShaw, Pat and Carol Engelken, Lynnan and Mark Roeder, and Brian and Kathy Engelken; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his father‑ and mother‑in‑law, Gerald and Rita Engelken.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque or Camp Courageous of Iowa—organizations that reflect Steve’s lifelong commitment to compassion and service.

Steve’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, UW Health – Madison, and Medical Associates for the exceptional care, kindness, and support they provided.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.