Memorial

It is with a heavy heart that we celebrate the life of Suzanne Rosien Dostal, a woman whose light shone brightly in the lives of all who had the privilege to know her.  Born on July 31, 1946, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, she passed away on September 18, 2023, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, after a courageous battle with melanoma.  Sue’s life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of community.

Sue’s journey of education and self-discovery began when she graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High in 1964.  She continued her academic pursuits at Iowa State University, graduating with a teaching degree in 1968.  Her thirst for knowledge did not end there. She furthered her education at the University of Iowa, where she obtained her master’s degree in 1983.

Sue’s passion for education was not limited to her own.  She dedicated 34 years of her life to the Cedar Rapids Community Schools, nurturing young minds in Kindergarten and Middle School.  As a teacher, she was more than just a dispenser of knowledge.  She was a guide, a mentor, and a friend to her students.  Her dedication to education extended beyond the classroom walls.  She was an active member of her community, volunteering for Meals on Wheels for 17 years, serving on the Cedar Rapids School Foundation Boards, and participating in the yearly Alzheimer Walk in memory of her mother.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sue was a beacon of light in her community.  She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Fort Dodge, Iowa, and attended the New Covenant Bible Church of Cedar Rapids.  She was an Alumnae of Pi Beta Phi Sorority and was known for her love of music, participating in numerous church and community choirs.

Sue’s love for life was infectious.  She enjoyed traveling with her husband Chuck, having explored countries from England to China.  She was outgoing, always eager to meet new people.  She maintained an enduring connection with her High School Potluck Pals, participating in the annual get-togethers and remaining in constant communication.  Sue was an avid Iowa State Cyclone fan, she was known to rally the spirit of those around her with a cheer of “Go Cyclones!!!”

Sue’s life was rich with family and love.  She leaves behind her beloved husband, Charles T. Dostal, her stepsons, Randy T. Dostal (Marilyn) and James E. Dostal (Amber).  She was a beloved sister to Carol Ann Deckert (Garrett) and Joanne (Jodie) Janke (Doug), Sue was an adored aunt to nieces and nephews Courtney Wood and Matthew Wood (Beth).  Toby Wood and Lydia Wood.  Nathan A Gibson (Julie) and Emma Zoe Harms, Calvin Foster Gibson and Eva Grace Gibson.  Abbie Lynn Laufersweiler (Luke) Maxxus Edward Laufersweilers, Ezra Luke Laufersweiler, and Kash Stephen Laufersweiler.

Suzanne Rosien Dostal was a woman of strength, kindness, and unwavering faith.  She was loving, friendly, and generous.  Her life was a testament to the power of positivity and the strength of the human spirit.  Even in her passing her words continue to inspire us:  “God is in charge,” and “The best is yet to come.”

As we mourn the loss of Sue, let us celebrate the life she lived.  Each moment of her life was a testament to her spirit, her courage, and her incredible capacity for love.  She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the American Red Cross, Shriners Children’s Hospitals, First Baptist Church Fort Dodge, Iowa or New Covenant Bible Church of Cedar Rapids.