Roger Schwickerath

Roger Reynold Schwickerath age 75 of New Hampton died Thursday, December 21, 2023 at New Hampton Nursing and Rehab Center. Friends may greet the family from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 28, 2023, at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. Roger Reynold Schwickerath, known affectionately to friends and family as Roger, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2023, in his hometown of New Hampton, Iowa, where he was also born on November 20, 1948 to Edward and Margaret(Gebel) Schwickerath. His life was a testament to dedication, love, and generosity, leaving behind a legacy. Roger attended school in New Hampton, and after graduating from New Hampton High School in 1967, he honorably served his country in the Vietnam War. It was during this time that he acquired the nickname "Sweatshirt," a playful nod to his comrades' attempts to pronounce his last name. Despite the distance and challenges of war, Roger's relationship with Beverly Zubrod, a childhood acquaintance, blossomed through heartfelt correspondence. Their love culminated in marriage on October 31, 1970, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Washington, Iowa. Together they were blessed with three children: Dean, Nick, and Jennifer, who brought immense joy to Roger's life. Roger's journey began in Charles City, where he and Beverly first settled. His career took shape as he mastered the trade of welding for a local construction company. His skills and interests led him to the plumbing industry, where he played a significant role in installing the plumbing at the Sara Lee plant in New Hampton. This experience paved the way for a 28-year tenure with Sara Lee, where he was a valued line support employee until the company's closure. Roger's work ethic and leadership qualities were further evidenced when he joined Sparboe Foods, where he concluded his career in management, respected by colleagues and employees alike. An avid outdoorsman, Roger cherished nature and the simple pleasures it offered. He was a skilled trap shooter, often competing in local meets, and he seized every chance to fish and hunt. His younger days were filled with boating and skiing on the lake, activities that reflected his adventurous spirit. Retirement allowed Roger to combine his passion for fishing with his entrepreneurial spirit, as he opened a bait and tackle shop out of his garage in North Washington. He took delight in supplying fellow fishermen with the necessary gear for their angling adventures. Roger and Beverly's love for travel and warmer climates led them to become snowbirds, eagerly anticipating winters in Florida where they could bask in the beautiful weather and stroll along the sandy beaches. These moments were treasured escapes that they looked forward to every year. Above all, Roger was a family man. His selflessness was apparent in the way he cherished time with his loved ones, always putting their needs before his own. He was the quintessential handyman, generously lending his skills to anyone in need. His legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Beverly, their children, and the community he served with such dedication. Roger's life was marked by his generous spirit, his handiness in all things practical, and his selfless nature. These attributes made him a pillar in the lives of those who knew him. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Roger is survived by his wife of 53 years, Beverly Schwickerath of New Hampton, IA; two sons, Dean Schwickerath of Readlyn, IA, Nick (Jodi) Schwickerath of Clear Lake, IA; one daughter, Jennifer Schwickerath of Marion, IA; six grandchildren, Amanda, Kellogg, Kira Schwickerath, William Kellogg, Marissa Nobis, Lily Schwickerath, and Madalyn Anderson; one great-grandson, Owen Kellogg; three brothers, Dale (Nancy) Schwickerath of Newton, IA, Gerard Schwickerath of Cedar Rapids, IA, Andrew (Lisa) Schwickerath of North Washington, IA; two sisters, Mary (Robert) Drenth of Nora Springs, IA, Grace Schwickerath of New Hampton, IA; brother-in-law, Steve Trettin of Mason City, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Theresa Schwickerath, and Alice Trettin.