George Robert Oetker, 87, of Tama, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at UnityPoint-Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Tama with burial to follow at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery in Tama.

Memorials may be directed to Knights of Columbus, St. Patrick Parish.

George was born on November 17, 1938, at the family farmhouse near Haverhill, Iowa, the son of George H. and Hildegard “Hilda” Oetker. He was the youngest of nine children and spent his early years on the family farm before attending St. Mary's Catholic High School.

Following high school, George attended St. Pius X Seminary. He later enrolled at Loras College, where he pursued his passion for education. George dedicated his professional life to teaching history and coaching student-athletes. During his career, he taught and coached at Don Bosco High School, Lenihan Catholic High School, and South Tama County High School. While teaching at Don Bosco, he met Rita Weber, who would become his wife and lifelong companion.

George and Rita M. Weber were united in marriage on June 20, 1964, in Dunkerton, Iowa. They began their married life in Marshalltown before making their home in Tama, where they resided for more than 55 years and raised their family.

In addition to his work as an educator, George coached golf, football, and basketball. He enjoyed reading throughout his life, especially the novels of Louis L'Amour.

George was an active member of the Tama-Toledo community and generously gave his time to many organizations. He served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 391 and was a member of the Optimist Club and the Knights of Columbus. A devoted member of St. Patrick Parish, his Catholic faith remained a guiding force throughout his life.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of nearly 62 years, Rita Oetker of Tama; his children, Dana McGinnis, Mike (Susan) Oetker, and Matt (Jennifer) Oetker; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Robert Oetker, Elizabeth Blink, Marie Barber, Irene Erwin, James Oetker, Earl Oetker, Harold Oetker, and William Oetker.

George will be remembered for his unwavering Catholic faith, his devotion to Rita and his family, his years of service to students and athletes, and the countless stories he shared with family and friends.