Charles "Chuck" Reistroffer

Charles Lee Reistroffer, of Maquoketa, IA, formerly of Preston, IA, passed away Saturday, August 20, at his home. Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 27, at St John’s Lutheran Church in Preston. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place in Preston Cemetery. Friends and family who wish to watch the livestream may do so at this link, https://www.facebook.com/groups/455994019917610 .

Charles was born December 8, 1934, son of Edward and Gladys (McMahon) Reistroffer. He spent most of his childhood living in Spragueville, IA, where his parents owned the Reistroffer Tap. Chuck attended Spragueville schools until 8th grade, then attended high school in Preston. Chuck graduated with the class of 1951. In high school Chuck met the love of his life, Dolores Wilslef. Chuck and Dolores were life long high school sweethearts. The couple married on October 10, 1954. Together Chuck and Dolores raised two children and celebrated 68 years of marriage.

In 1957 Chuck joined the United States Army. After his initial training he was stationed in Germany. Chuck brought Dolores with him, and they would continue their lives in Germany for the next few years. While abroad, the Reistroffers enjoyed traveling throughout Germany and Europe. Chuck and Dolores returned to the Preston area in 1959. Upon their return Chuck restarted his old job at Dupont, where he worked as an electrician. Chuck stayed at Dupont and retired after 42 years.

In his spare time, Chuck liked working with his hands. His talents included making pieces of stained glass, building birdhouses, and even silversmithing when he made Dolores a silver ring. Chuck loved playing cards and completing Sudoku puzzles. Later in life Chuck and Dolores would travel around the world, including trips to Ireland, Hawaii, and a trip back to Germany.

Most important to Chuck was his family. He instilled values of responsibility and hard work in his two daughters. The Reistroffer family enjoyed camping trips together as their children were growing up. Chuck was a great friend, and lovable person. He liked most everyone he met, and never judged.

Charles will be dearly missed by his wife, Dolores of Maquoketa; two daughters, Kris Ehlinger of Maquoketa, and Jody (J.P.) Paulsen of Tullahama, TN; one grandson, Keven Behn of Preston; two great-grandchildren, Tyler Behn, and Shaylynn Behn; three step grandchildren, and three step great-grandchildren.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Gladys; and seven siblings, Jerrine Boyert, Allen “Bud” Reistroffer, Dorothy “Toots” Beck, Robert Reistroffer, Lois Tebbe, Betty Mootz, and Donald Reistroffer.