Rose Alice Lockhart, known affectionately as Rosie, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at the age of 87, with her loving nieces Carrie and Holly by her side.
Born in Rockwell, Iowa, to Parkie and Mary Walkner, Rosie was raised in Marion and graduated from Marion High School. She later attended Mount Mercy College alongside her sister Jane. She enjoyed a long and successful career in office administration, retiring from John Deere Health in 2005.
On September 30, 1961, Rosie married the love of her life, John Lockhart, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They shared 35 wonderful years of marriage until John's passing in 1996. Together they cherished traveling, attending car shows and swap meets with their restored cars, and above all, spending time with family. Rosie was a bright light in the lives of many—an admired and remarkable woman often described as such a "neat" lady. She served as the steadfast rock of the Walkner family, and she and John were the trusted aunt and uncle who offered guidance and support to countless nieces and nephews over the years.
Nearly a decade ago, Rosie found love again with Virgil Dietz. They shared many joyful years together attending car shows across the Midwest, along with club dinners and events with the Cedar Valley Street Rods, where she formed many cherished friendships. Rosie is survived by her sister Evelyn Carver, her sister-in-law Carolyn Lazenby, foster brothers-in-law Pat (Cheri) Stepanek and Doug Stepanek, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, and her loving companion Virgil Dietz and his family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, and many beloved siblings and other family members. Her love, wisdom, and steady presence will remain in the hearts of all who knew and cherished her.
Shared Memories
No memories have been shared yet. Be the first to leave one.