Peter J. Sauser

MONTICELLO, IOWA

Peter J. Sauser, 82, of Cascade and formerly of Monticello, Iowa, died on Friday, October 9, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Pete was born on January 31, 1944, in Cascade, Iowa, the son of Leo and Adeline (Streng) Sauser. He graduated from Aquin High School in Cascade in 1962. He married Mary Jane McNally on October 8, 1966, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade. The couple moved to Monticello in 1969 where he became the proud owner of Sauser’s Body Shop, first in partnership with his brother Nick and then on his own until he retired in the early 2000s. He enjoyed helping his wife with her greenhouse business almost as much as he enjoyed working on cars.

Pete had many hobbies and interests throughout his life, including refinishing antique furniture and collecting Red Wing stoneware. He was a pretty good golfer and an even better bowler as evidenced by the many, many trophies he won over the years. He loved old cars, 1950s rock and roll music, and dancing.

Pete spent his retirement years helping others. He lovingly cared for his wife until her death in 2008, worked part-time at Kramer Funeral Home, delivered Meals on Wheels, and was a volunteer driver with the Jones County RSVP program. He was an active member of his Parkinson’s support group and developed many friendships with his fellow members. Later, Pete took full advantage of the social opportunities available at River Bend Retirement Community and could often be found doing group exercise, playing euchre, and visiting with other residents.

Pete is survived by his daughter, Laura; his brother, Nick (Julie) Sauser of Monticello; sisters-in-law: Tami McNally of South Bend, Indiana and Margie Gehl of Cascade; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane; his parents; brothers-in-law: Dave McNally, Steve McNally, and Joe Gehl; sisters-in-law: Kay McNally and Judith Redwine, and nephew, Tom Sauser.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Bend Retirement Community and UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, especially the wonderful palliative care team, for their compassionate care.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa, preceded by a prayer service at 3:30 p.m. Visitation will continue at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Monticello with a funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Rev. Tony Kruse will officiate with Deacon Ed Goldsmith assisting. The services will be followed by a luncheon at the Monticello Eagles Club.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.