"I came to stoermers frequently as a 4H kid who did a lot of needlepoint projects 50 years ago. Mr Stoermer was always helpful with getting my projects framed. Then my projects would win at state fair. Then I would purchase another project there for the following year. We lived 30 miles away but that was our routine for 10 years."
In loving memory of
Richard "Dick" Stoermer
July 30, 1926 - November 13, 2017
Richard "Dick" Stoermer passed away November 13, 2017 at the Great River Hospice. Dick was born on July 30, 1926 in Burlington, Iowa, the son of George and Flora Stoermer.
He grew up in Burlington with two sisters, Marilyn and Odett and brother Larry.
In high school he enjoyed music, and was a stand out in the band and orchestra. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1944. Dick intended to go to college, but chose to join the U.S. Army to serve his country. He served in the European Theatre during WWII.
On February 1, 1952, Dick married June Mourning in Burlington. They were the loving parents of David and Jeffrey. He was a lifelong member of Bethany Lutheran Church where he served on the church council numerous times as well as church treasurer.
In 1962, he formed the retail store Stoermers at 513 Jefferson, later moving to 416 Jefferson. He was very dedicated to his business, but was always generous with his time for his family. He was well known for building relationships with customers and always putting the customer first. In 1992 he sold the business to his son David but remained active in the business for several years.
He was a member of the Burlington Noon Lions Club for many years and served as President from 1971-72. He was awarded the 100% Presidents Award for an outstanding club. He has been a member of Keenagers for many years.
Dick, a true family man, was always very active and supportive in the lives of his children and grandchildren, attending many ball games, dance recitals, band concerts, music recitals, swim meets, gymnastic meets and loved babysitting grandchildren whenever possible. He had many interests including fishing, music, traveling, family and ballroom dancing.
Dick and June traveled the Midwest on ballroom dancing excursions whenever possible. Dick and sons, and sometimes grandsons, went to Canada on fishing trips for many years.
He is survived by his wife June Stoermer of Burlington, two sons David (Pam) Stoermer and Jeffrey (Kathy) Stoermer; five grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and one sister, Marilyn Huth.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Odett Reger and one brother Larry Stoermer.
The memorial funeral service for Mr. Stoermer will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 15th at Lunning Chapel. The Rev. Paul Hermansen will officiate. Inurnment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Bethany Lutheran Church or Great River Hospice House.
Tributes
"Dear June, We are so very sad that you have lost your ballroom dance partner. We always enjoyed our hellos to you & Dick at many Big Band Ballroom dance weekends. Our thoughts are with you and your family. A warm hug to you from your dancing friends, Kay Kummerow & Ron Mengarelli. "
"Dick was one in a million! I know he will be truly missed. Prayer for all the family, so sorry for your loss."
"Thinking of you and your family, sorry for your loss. George and Mary Christe"
"Becky and I are sending special prayers to June and family. Many wonderful 'Let's Dance' memories with Dick and June. A real 'can do' guy with a wonderful wife that made things happen. Yes.... An unwavering Burlington guy that touched our hearts. Loved watching you dance the night away. Still remember reconnecting Burlington at a J. K. Dance in Starved Rock many years ago. Great fun! Plus running a great store in downtown Burlington. Many positive memories. Peace to you June. John and Becky Smith"
"So very sorry for your loss. Dick & June were always good to my dad. He thought so much of both oF you. DELBERT DAVEY Marylu (Davey) Shipman & Donn Shipman "
"Dear June and Family, Rec'd ntotice of Dick;s passing on the internet. Words cannot express how we felt when we rec;d this news. A true friend, we will always remember him and all of you. Our Deepest Sympathy and Our Prayers are with you and the family, All Our Love, F.W. and Binia Fageol"
"Thoughts and prayers for all family and friends."
"He was a wonderful, sweet man. So sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to all the family. Sherry DeHague"