Jean ‘J.A.’ Schilling

Jean “J.A.” Schilling, of Charles City, passed away peacefully Friday, April 12, 2024, at the age of 93. He enjoyed a long and wonderful life in Charles City and is now reunited with his beloved wife Jeanette, (2011) and his dear son Steven (2014).

Jean married his high school sweetheart, Jeanette Scheer, from Stacyville, Iowa. They got married at the U.S. Naval Base in Port Hueneme, California, and remained loving partners for 59 years.

Together they enjoyed raising their eight children in Charles City, a community in which he was well-liked, respected, and remained involved throughout most of his life.

He proudly served in the Navy from 1950-1954. He spent the majority of his time on the U.S.S Brown which he fondly referred to as the “Tin Can.”

After attending U of I he began his 50-year career with Northwestern Mutual Life and became an advisor and long-time friend to many clients.

He was active in the United Way, a member of the City Council for eight years, interim mayor numerous times, a lifetime member of the Elks, and on the committee of the rebuilding for the Catholic church following the 1968 tornado.

He was a man of faith and involved in the Immaculate Conception congregation.

He was also well-known for being quite a joke-teller!

Jean enjoyed playing cards and golfing. He also enjoyed many golfing trips to Biloxi, Mississippi.

Many good memories were made.

He enjoyed family vacations and gardening with Jeanette at their beautiful homes over the years; homes full of warmth, laughter, love, wonderful food, and gatherings

The last two years of his life, he was looked after by the caring staff at Nora Springs Care Center. We appreciate all that they did for him. St. Croix Hospice joined in his care in the final months of life, to whom we extend our utmost gratitude.

“Do not say in sorrow you are sad he is gone. Say in gratefulness you are glad he was here.”

Rest in peace, sweet father. You will be greatly missed and forever loved.

He is survived by his six daughters Debra (Jon) Rompf, Kathryn (Steven) Block, Rebecca Schilling, Laurie Schilling, Ann (Rich) Robert, Jennifer Schilling, and son Thomas Schilling; 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by sisters Mary Lou Mauer, Doris Ritchey, and his brother, David Schilling.

His funeral mass will be on Thursday, May 2 at 5 p.m. at I.C. Church.

There will be a private family burial at 1:30 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery.

Celebration of Life is Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Charles City Elk’s Club at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Croix Hospice.

Please send any cards to: Jen Schilling, 206 4th Ave., Charles City, IA 50616.

Please visit his Facebook page and share your memories, with us!! (Tribute JA Schilling, then select People).