Steven J. Benischek

It is with a heavy yet grateful heart that we announce the passing of Steven J. Benischek, 79, of Lost Nation, on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. We invite friends and family to join us for a visitation on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Lost Nation, and a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Steve will find his final resting place at the Lost Nation Cemetery, next to his son.

Born on October 4, 1945, in Anamosa, Iowa, to parents Otto and Esther (Ruchotzke) Benischek, Steve brightened the lives of those around him. After graduating from Oxford Junction High School in 1964, he united in marriage with Barbara Busch in Marion, Iowa, in November of the same year.

Throughout his career as a machinist, Steve’s passion was evident, but it was on his farm where his heart truly thrived. Steve was a dedicated lifelong farmer until his last day, stewarding the land that has been passed down through the generations of his and Barb’s families. He found joy in the open fields and especially in working with his cattle.

Steve dedicated himself to his community and his faith as an active member of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Lost Nation and as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus Council 959 for many years. In his spare moments, he enjoyed fishing, camping, and spirited games of 6-handed euchre, but nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by his family.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of over 61 wonderful years, Barb; three beloved children, Randy (Jeff Macomber) Benischek of Clarence, Brenda (Clark) Kroeger of Long Grove, and James Benischek of Lost Nation; four cherished grandchildren, Hannah (Justin) Fehr, Luke Kroeger, Marae Benischek, and Megan Benischek; a great-grandson, Nolan Fehr; and three loving sisters, Carolyn Zaruba of Cedar Rapids, Mary Jo Smiley of Anamosa, and Beverly (Mark) Valerlus of Davenport.

Steven is reunited with his parents, two brothers Gerald and Otto, and his beloved son and farming partner, Scott, who passed in 2013.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family for distribution to his favorite charities. Online condolences can be shared at www.dawsonfuneral.com, and heartfelt notes can be sent to Dawson Funeral Services, Attn: Steve Benischek Family, PO Box 258, Wyoming, Iowa 52362.

“And on the eighth day God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a caretaker.’ So God made a farmer.” – Paul Harvey

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.