Rob Dietrich

Rob Dietrich, 83, of Iowa City, cherished father, husband and friend peacefully passed away Jan. 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. His life was a beautiful symphony of curiosity, kindness and an unwavering belief in the magic of the world. A gentle soul with a heart full of optimism, he approached life with a childlike wonder, always hungry to learn and grow.

Rob was born June 15, 1941, to Curt and Linda (Allmandinger) Dietrich in Dubuque. After graduating from Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, Rob attended Simpson College in Indianola, then transferred to the University of Iowa where he obtained both his BA and MA in history as well as other post-graduate work.

Rob married Judy Pilmer June 15, 1963. To this union two daughters were born, Amy and Karen. He married Peggy Mullin on Jan. 6, 1990, and she added two children to their family, Jennifer and Jonathan Reeck.

Rob taught history and political science at Southwestern Community College in Creston for more than 30 years. A storyteller at heart, he discovered teaching gave him endless opportunities to share his wisdom with a captive audience. While he certainly enjoyed giving the lectures, the same could not be said for grading the exams!

Following his retirement in 2003 he moved to Iowa City, where he was able to pursue his lifelong interest in art. His love for painting was a defining passion for him. With a keen eye for color and design, he brought to life scenes that reflected his unique perspective of the world. He found joy in sharing his artwork with others, and his paintings will remain a testament to the creativity, warmth and vision that defined him. Another one of his creative endeavors was starting the weekly “Lyrics Alive” sing-along group at the Iowa City Senior Center. Rob’s love for singing was the bridge he used to connect with others, sharing stories and bringing people together through melodies that touched hearts.

With his dedication to social justice and his desire to make the world a better place, Rob championed causes close to his heart, including refugee support and preservation of historic places. He was instrumental in the “Save the Depot” campaign in Creston, which resulted in the restoration of the city’s historic railroad depot. He also participated in efforts to revitalize the city’s original U.S. Post Office building. His roots in Iowa’s history and politics fueled his commitment to create meaningful change, always with a sense of purpose and humor.

Rob loved meeting new people and hearing their stories, finding joy in each interaction. He had a deep and special bond with many dogs throughout his life, and they were his constant companions in his later years. Above all, Rob cherished the time spent and the memories made with his family.

With an artist’s heart and a storyteller’s soul, Rob left an indelible mark on those who knew him. As he embarks on his next journey, singing a new song in the great beyond, we carry his lessons of love, laughter and curiosity in our hearts. Rob’s legacy will forever inspire us to embrace the world with open arms and to cherish the connections that make life truly magical.

He is deeply loved and will be missed beyond measure.

Rob is survived by his loving wife, Peggy; children, Amy (Mike) Eilers of West Des Moines, Karen (Terry) Gerth of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and Jen (Mike) Spoerl of Sherrill; grandchildren: Joe and Sean Eilers, Katie and Tyler Gerth, Laura and Sara Swank and Emma Spoerl. Other survivors include his brother, David Dietrich of Peoria, Illinois, and extended family including Lynn (Rob) Nunley, a dear family member of Peggy’s.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Jonathan Reeck.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring at F.W. Kent Park in Oxford. Memorial donations may be made to the Friends of Iowa City Senior Center or to F.W. Kent Park.

Online condolences may be shared at www.lensingfuneral.com.