Anita Rose Schmelzer

Anita Rose Schmelzer, age 89, of Garnavillo, IA, died Thursday, October 6, 2016, at the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital. She was born on July 10, 1927 in Garber, the daughter of Amadeus and Viola (Matt) Berns. Anita began her education in Garber before moving to West Union and graduating from high school there. After high school, Anita received her teaching degree and taught country school for 2 years before she got married. On June 4, 1947, Anita was united in marriage with Joseph Schmelzer at Holy Name Church in West Union. Together they farmed and raised their 13 children. Anita was a member of the Catholic Daughters and volunteered at the Tower Living Center. She enjoyed wood carving and china painting. Anita was an avid gardener and took great pride in her flowers. She loved to read and to use her artistic ability when she decorated cakes. Anita is survived by her children, Sam (Sarah) Schmelzer of Dubuque, Mary Schmelzer of Iowa City, Michael (Sharon) Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Thomas (Diane) Schmelzer of Edgewood, Tim (Kathy) Schmelzer of Elkader, Margaret (Bruce) Matt of Lone Tree, Susan Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Anna (Dave) Elder of Iowa City, Donna (Kurt) Franks of Postville, Ellen (Joe) Claeys of Iowa City & Laurie (Jim) Orth of Winona MN; 21 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren and when counting great great grandchildren, we lost count; siblings, John (Janet) Berns Dubuque, Allan (Rosie) Berns of Winthrop, Antoinette Kann of Marquette, Billy (Nellie) Berns of Quasqueton and many nieces, nephews, family and friends. Anita was preceded in death by her parents, husband Joseph in 2006; 2 sons, Dan in 1973 and Tony in 2016; brothers, Larry Berns, LaVern Berns, Mike Berns; sister, Donna Mae in infancy. Service Information Visitation Sunday October 9, 2016 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home and Crematory Services 001 South Industrial Park Rd Garnavillo, IA 52049-0035 Visitation Monday October 10, 2016 10:00 AM to 10:55 AM St. Joseph Catholic Church 204 W. Oak Garnavillo, IA 52049 Funeral Mass Monday October 10, 2016 11:00 AM St. Joseph Catholic Church 204 W. Oak Garnavillo, IA 52049 Interment following funeral service St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery 250th St Garnavillo, IA 52049