Kurt Andrew Rueckel
September 28, 1964 — July 12, 2025
- Share:
-
-
-
Service Details
Kurt Andrew Rueckel, 60, passed away on July 12, 2025.
Born in Buffalo Grove, Illinois on September 28, 1964, Kurt was the son of Harry and Ruth Rueckel. He worked for the cities of Waukee and Des Moines as a Budget Analyst for over 20 years, work he missed even after he retired. He also served as a volunteer with the Iowa Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and the Animal Rescue League, regularly giving back to the community he loved.
Kurt married the love of his life, Lucia, on June 27, 1992, at Augustana Chapel in Rock Island, Illinois. For 33 years, they built a life full of love and travel, from Illinois to Florida and all across Brazil and Europe. They raised one daughter, Lizandra.
Kurt was a passionate gardener who received and maintained the Master Gardener status through Iowa State University. He also loved to bake cookies, bread, and pizza. He and his friends would host pizza-baking competitions, where he adamantly proclaimed that the person who baked the best crust was the true winner, even if they didn’t take home the main prize.
Kurt is survived by his wife, Lucia; daughter, Lizandra; son-in-law, Kenan; his two sisters, Lisa (Jeffrey), and Laura; two nephews, Brian and Geoffrey; niece, Jamie; and additional family and friends in both the United States and Brazil.
The family will host a celebration of Kurt’s life at a later date.
Michele Quijano
07/18/2025
I am so sorry to hear of Kurt's passing. I worked with Kurt at the City of Des Moines. He was always so friendly and fun to be around. My thoughts and prayers to you all.
Leslie Hunter
07/16/2025
Lucia and family, our deepest condolences to you all. Kurt had the most generous spirit and an infectious smile. His time volunteering at the Greater Des Moines Botanical garden, I cannot think of a time I ever saw him not smiling. We greatly appreciated the time and dedication he shared with the garden. We only got to spend a little time with him but know he had an adventurous spirit and love for the people around him. Kurt made a difference with his kindness. Thank you for sharing him.
Leslie Hunter
Patrick Schmitt
07/16/2025
Hi Lucia. On behalf of the entire Discovery Garden family as well as the Rotunda Garden Bed Team, we all wanted to pray with you our most sincere thoughts and prayers. Kurt was such a part of our gardening experience, coming by almost daily doing some odd task. He was a very giving and generous person, especially with the gift of self. He will be truly missed. His smile and sense of humer was always infectuous. He will remain in our heart for a very long time. If there is anything we can do to help you, please don't hesitate to ask. God Bless you and your family with many happy memories. Take care, Patrick from the Discovery Garden Team.