VerDean Emil Radloff

VerDean Emil Radloff, a deeply loved and respected member of the community, peacefully passed away on May 18, 2026, at The Highlands Nursing Home in Decorah, Iowa. He lived a life with purpose and grace. Born on June 4, 1936, in Monona, Iowa in the back of his parents Studebaker car, VerDean's journey was one of dedication, love, and unwavering faith. The beloved son of Henry and Mahala Radloff, VerDean was blessed with a childhood rich in the values of hard work and family unity. These principles guided him throughout his life, beginning with his education at Gunder Country School and his graduation from Postville High School in 1954. Participated in football and baseball while in high school. his football coach called him Rudolph because he had a sunburned nose which later earned the affectionate nickname "Rudy," . After high school, VerDean answered the call of duty, serving his country with honor in the US Army from 1954 to 1956. His service took him from the boot camps of Arkansas for 8 weeks and 8 weeks of Artillery training in Oklahoma to Germany for 18 months and then to California before being discharged, earning him several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Occupation Medal (Germany), and the Good Conduct Medal. In 1959, VerDean married the love of his life, Jean Ann Berns, after being introduced to each other by her brother Bob at a dance in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that spanned over six decades, creating a beautiful family and and setting an example to all what true love is all about. VerDean's life was one of labor and love on the family farm in rural Gunder, a responsibility he embraced wholeheartedly after his father's untimely passing in 1962. With total commitment, he cultivated over 1,000 acres, nurturing the land and his family with total dedication. His influence extended beyond the farm as he actively participated in numerous agricultural organizations, including the Iowa Division Board of Mid Am Milk, Clayton County Pork Producers, Director Gunder Coop Cheese Factory, held offices in Three Rivers FS, and Iowa Cattle Association always striving to make a positive impact in agriculture A man of profound faith, VerDean was a devoted member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Clermont and St. Bridget's Catholic Church in Postville. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, he always took the time to attend a weekly mass at church no matter how busy his life was, guiding him in his service to others and his community involvement, including various card clubs and a snowmobile club. VerDean's generosity knew no bounds. His compassion extended far beyond his immediate surroundings, as he partnered with the Sisters of Franciscan and American Airlines to donate thousands of gallons of milk to families in need in Bogota, Colombia. he was always looking at a way to make the world a better place with his kindness to all. In his leisure, VerDean found joy of nature, whether fishing the Mississippi River, ice fishing in the heart of winter, or golfing in Luana and Clermont. Vacations to Branson, Missouri, and other states with his beloved family were cherished traditions, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. VerDean is survived by his loving children, Anita (Ron) Blish, Charles Radloff, Craig Radloff, Peggy (Don) Montgomery, Richard (Christy) Radloff, and Kathryn (Dennis) Francis, along with his cherished grandchildren Jessica, Anthony, Kay Lee, Emily, Ryan, Mara, Logan, Elizabeth, Devin, Clara, Victoria, and Kristen, and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his devoted in-laws, Robert (Mary) Berns, Sr. Geneva Berns, O.S.F., Lois Berns (Steve Narowetz), Jerry (Ruth) Berns, Bernice Berns (Terry Iverson), Kathy Berns, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is reunited in eternal peace with his parents, siblings Harley Radloff Sr., Donna Mae Olson, Lillian Jacobia, and predeceased family members, whose memories he cherished and whose spirits enriched his life. A service celebrating VerDean's remarkable life will be held on July 10, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Bridget's Catholic Church, located at 135 W. Williams Street, Postville, Iowa. It will be a time to honor his legacy, his love, and the kindness he so generously bestowed upon all who knew him. VerDean Emil Radloff leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. His life was a testament to the power of kindness and the impact of a generous spirit. Though he will be profoundly missed, his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.