Charles John Rosonke

Charles John Rosonke age 64 of New Hampton, IA, died Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Colonial Manor of Elma.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, New Hampton with Rev. Chris  Podhajsky celebrating the Mass. Interment will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Hampton.

Friends may greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, October 31, 2025, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton, where there will be a 7:00 p.m. parish scripture service. Visitation continues one hour before the Mass at the church on Saturday.

Charles John Rosonke, a man of gentle spirit and selfless devotion, passed away at Colonial Manor of Elma on October 29, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born to Glen and Mary (Lynch) Rosonke on March 9, 1961, in New Hampton, Charles was the second oldest of six children, a beloved brother, and a cherished uncle and godfather.

Growing up in New Hampton, Charles attended local schools and graduated in 1979. His first job at a gas station in Fredericksburg marked the beginning of a remarkable 47-year career in customer service. Charles’ professional journey was in the grocery industry, which included dedicated service at Liddle’s Super Valu, Joe’s Family Foods, and Fareway in New Hampton. He was committed to his work, for he truly loved his vocation and staying connected to the community he served.

Charles’ passions extended beyond his work. He found tranquility atop his John Deere mower, tending to the grounds of his lifelong home west of New Hampton, as well as assisting at his brothers’ properties. Charles enjoyed raccoon hunting and camping adventures with his family. His love for his silver lab, Khloe, and his many nieces and nephews was a testament to his kind-hearted nature. In quieter moments, Charles could often be found with a smile on his face, enjoying his favorite cartoons—a simple pleasure that brought joy to his days.

Charles John Rosonke’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his influence will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the community he so passionately served. As we bid farewell to Charles, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of kindness, dedication, and the simple joys that make a life rich and meaningful.

Charles lived a long life thanks to many family and friends. A special thank you to Mayo Clinic, MercyOne New Hampton, Chickasaw County Healthcare, Elma Colonial Manor, and Howard County Hospice for their continuous care and compassion to Charles throughout his life. 

He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family. Charles is survived by his brothers, Paul (Cheryl) of Alta Vista and Dean of New Hampton; sisters, Judy Wedeking of Plainfield and Karen (Larry) Hrdlicka of Cresco; sister-in-law Linda Rosonke of New Hampton; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will miss his gentle presence and unwavering love. 

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Mary Rosonke; his brother, Dale; and brother-in-law, Rodney Wedeking. His life was a testament to the virtues of passion and gentleness, and he will be remembered for his selflessness and the quiet strength he brought to every interaction.