Michael “Mike” Stoeffler, 78, of Cedar Rapids and Garber, died Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026, in Cedar Rapids.
Visitation was Monday, Sept. 7, Morris Funeral Home, Garnavillo.
Funeral services were Tuesday, Sept. 8, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Garnavillo, conducted by Rev. Gabriel Anderson and Rev. Marvin Bries.
Interment and military honors followed at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Guttenberg.
Mike lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and love for his family. A veteran of the U.S. Army who served during the Vietnam War, he carried a strong sense of duty throughout his life. Whether working in Cedar Rapids, raising cattle and farming near Guttenberg, or answering emergency calls in the middle of the night, Mike could always be counted on by those who knew him.
Perhaps nowhere was Mike’s devotion more evident than in his love for his wife, Suzanne. Married for 43 years, they built a life together grounded in faith and family. He took tremendous pride in his two sons, and in watching his grandchildren grow into their own unique personalities.
A familiar face in the community, Mike was known for his extraordinary dedication to the West Bertram Fire Department where he served for 53 years, many as Fire Chief. Mike was also a member of the American Legion Post in Garnavillo, for over 50 years. He participated in military funerals, marched with the honor guard in July 4th parades, and helped with many Legion fundraisers. Mike remained proud of his military service and the friendships he formed over the years.
Mike’s legacy endures through the lives he touched with his genuine kindness, boundless generosity, dedicated service, and unwavering commitment to family and community. Mike proudly supported students by providing the Stoeffler Nursing Scholarship to students since 2015. He was a nice man, whose smile and warm personality will be remembered.
He is survived by his sons, Joseph Stoeffler and Thomas Stoeffler; and grandchildren: Sullivan, Poseybelle and Fritz.
He was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Helen (Berns) Stoeffler; his wife, Suzanne (Goedken) Stoeffler; and his sister, Mary Krapfl.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.