Mark A Stolze

Mark August Stolze, 91, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. His long and full life was marked by service, craftsmanship, faith, and a deep devotion to the people he cherished.

Mark was born in Burlington, Iowa on April 17, 1934 to August and Mary Stolze. He graduated from Iowa State University on an ROTC scholarship, beginning a path of service that shaped his early adulthood. He proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Navigator on the KC 135 Refueling Superfortress, contributing to missions that supported and protected countless aircrews. His time in the Air Force remained a source of pride, discipline, and camaraderie throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Mark continued his commitment to public service through a long and respected career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, working as a Supervisor for the Farmers Home Administration. His work supported rural communities and families, reflecting his belief in stewardship, fairness, and helping others build stable lives.

A man of deep and steady faith, Mark was a devoted Catholic and a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Grand Knight during his tenure. His commitment to service extended into parish life at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart, where he and his beloved spouse Doreen led the Wise and Wonderful program for many years, enriching the lives of older parishioners through fellowship, care, and community.

Mark was also a gifted craftsman with an artist’s eye, creating stained glass pieces that captured light in ways that reflected his warmth and generosity. He was passionate about winemaking, a hobby that brought friends and family together and filled gatherings with laughter and good conversation. Whether golfing on a sunny afternoon or hunting in the quiet of early morning, Mark embraced the outdoors and the simple pleasures it offered.

Mark was preceded in death by Doreen, his spouse of 60 years, and by his son Joseph (Elizabeth). He is lovingly remembered by his children: Peter (Laura).Mark Gregory (Julie), Catherine Fry (Sean), Cecilia Hickman (Bob), Cynthia Hultman (Kevin), Constance Handel (Terry), and Colleen Bennett (Mark). He will also be remembered with love by his 20 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren who carry forward his stories, his humor, and the steady kindness he showed throughout his life.

Services

- Visitation will be held at Ankeny Funeral Home on March 13, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m.

- Visitation will take place at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church (OLIH) on March 14, 2026, from 9:30–10:30 a.m.

- Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at OLIH.

> May his steadfast faith, generous spirit, and the love he poured into his family continue to guide all who were blessed to know him.