SPIRIT LAKE — Darwin John Rosener, 84, of Spirit Lake, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Darwin was born June 16, 1942, in Maple River, Iowa, to Henry J. and Frances Rosener. He graduated from Wall Lake High School and carried with him a lifelong connection to Iowa’s land, communities and people.
On March 7, 1964, Darwin married Clarice Schroeder, beginning a marriage that spanned more than 62 years. The couple lived in Harlan and Ida Grove before making Spirit Lake their permanent home in 1968.
Darwin built a career as a skilled building contractor, leaving his mark on homes, projects and communities across northwest Iowa. He helped organize the Northwest Iowa Home Builders Association and served as its president.
His work also connected him to one of the Iowa Great Lakes area’s best-known landmarks. Darwin played a role in rebuilding the Queen, the Lake Okoboji excursion boat, helping restore a beloved piece of local history.
Away from work, Darwin loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, shooting, golf and winters in Texas were among the activities he enjoyed. He also followed sports closely, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, Iowa Hawkeyes and Indiana Fever.
Family remained the center of Darwin’s life. Loved ones will remember him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose steady presence, stories, humor and care helped shape generations of family memories.
He is survived by his wife, Clarice; son Scot Rosener and his family; daughter-in-law Michelle Rosener; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Rosener; brother, Marvin Rosener; parents; parents-in-law; and other loved ones.
A visitation was held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Turner Jenness Funeral Home, 1302 Hill Avenue in Spirit Lake.
A funeral Mass was held at 11:30 AM Friday, June 26, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1005 Hill Avenue in Spirit Lake.
Memorials in Darwin’s honor may be directed to the Arbor Day Foundation or Ducks Unlimited.
Turner Jenness Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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